Brian Culbertson

Brian Culbertson was born on January 12, 1973, in Decatur, Illinois. His musical talent emerged early, beginning piano at age eight, drums at nine, trombone at ten, bass in seventh grade, and euphonium in high school. These formative years involved listening to a diverse range of artists such as Sting, The Yellowjackets, George Duke, David Foster, Marcus Miller, David Sanborn, Chicago, and Earth, Wind and Fire. He attended MacArthur High School, where his father was a music teacher. Culbertson then pursued higher education at DePaul University in Chicago.

While in college, Culbertson initiated his recording career by assembling a group of musicians and creating a demo tape. This tape was sent to Bud Harner, his sole contact in Los Angeles, which led to his first record deal. His debut album, “Long Night Out,” was released in 1994, marking the official start of his professional career. Throughout his career, Culbertson has released twenty solo albums, demonstrating his versatility across smooth jazz, R&B, funk, gospel, and pop genres. His 2014 album, “Another Long Night Out,” revisited his contemporary jazz roots, and he later released a solo piano album for yoga and meditation. His 2020 album, “XX,” featured numerous guest artists including Mr. Talkbox, Bootsy Collins, and Ray Parker Jr., showcasing his collaborative spirit and broad musical appeal.

In 2011, Culbertson expanded his work by hosting the first annual Brian Culbertson Napa Valley Jazz Getaway. This event, co-founded with his wife Michelle Culbertson, featured performances by artists such as Sinbad, Oleta Adams, and Kenny Lattimore, alongside food and wine events. The inaugural event quickly sold out and returned for a second year in 2013, expanding its venues and artist lineup. Culbertson has received multiple accolades throughout his career, including a 2012 NAACP Image Award nomination for Best Jazz Album, a 2012 Soul Train Award nomination for Best Contemporary Jazz Artist, and six 2011 Oasis Smooth Jazz Awards for categories including Best Entertainer and Best Album for “XII.”