Al Jarreau's unique vocal style is one of the world's most precious treasures. His innovative musical expressions have made him one of the most exciting and critically-acclaimed performers of our time with five Grammy Awards, scores of international music awards and popular accolades worldwide.

 

It's not surprising that he has perfected his technique to such an art. After all, he has been singing since the age of four, harmonizing with his brothers and performing solo at a variety of local events in his hometown of Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Music, however, was not always the major force in his life. He excelled in sports and was an above-average student throughout high school and college.

 

In 1977, Jarreau embarked on his first world tour, from which the selections for Look To The Rainbow, his double live album, were culled. That same year, he won his first American Grammy for Best Jazz Vocal Performance and was singled out for special honors in readers and critics polls in Performance, Cashbox, Downbeat, Stereo Review and other respected music publications.

 

He soon launched into the recording of the Heart's Horizon album, which contained the #2 R&B smash "So Good" and earned him another GRAMMY nomination, this time for Best R&B Album. After touring the globe for nearly two years, he returned to the studio - this time with Narada Michael Walden - to fashion the sound that would launch him into his third decade of music-making. The result was 1992's Heaven and Earth for which he received his fifth GRAMMY for Best R&B Vocal Performance. With this, he became one the rare artists to have won GRAMMY'S in the three categories of jazz, pop, and R&B.

 

1996 brought some exciting career challenges. While on a break from touring, Jarreau accepted a three-month stint on Broadway playing the role of Teen Angel in the hit musical Grease! Other recent credits include guest star appearances on New York Undercover, Touched By An Angel and a national McDonald's commercial with R&B songstress, Vesta Williams.

 

Then, to commemorate 20 years of success, Jarreau released his first-ever compilation album, Best of Al Jarreau. The collection highlights 14 of Jarrreau's best-known songs alongside two new tracks produced by Jarreau's long-time friend, jazz giant George Duke.

 

Al receives is awarded a star on the "Hollywood Walk of Fame" commemorating his status as one of the best singers of his generation.