Norman Brown (guitarist) facts for kids

Norman Brown (born December 18, 1970) is an American smooth jazz guitarist and singer. He is known for his smooth and soulful guitar playing. He mixes jazz with R&B and soul music.

Norman Brown's Musical Journey

Norman Brown was born in Shreveport, Louisiana, in 1970. He grew up in Kansas City, Kansas. When he was eight years old, he found his brother's acoustic guitar. He loved it right away.

He was inspired by famous musicians like Jimi Hendrix and the Isley Brothers. Later, he heard Wes Montgomery, a legendary jazz guitarist. That's when Norman decided to play jazz music.

He went to the Musicians Institute in Hollywood to study music. After he graduated in 1984, he became a teacher there. He taught guitar until 1998. In 1991, he signed with Mo Jazz. This was a part of the famous Motown record company.

Early Albums and Success

In 1992, Norman released his first album, Just Between Us. He worked with artists like Boyz II Men and Stevie Wonder. A jazz drummer named Norman Connors discovered Norman Brown and helped produce this album.

In 1994, he released After the Storm. This album was a big hit. It won "jazz album of the year" at the Soul Train Music Awards. It also stayed on the music charts for over two years.

His next album, Better Days Ahead, came out in 1996. This album helped him reach even more fans. He also won the American Jazz Award for it. After a short break, he signed with Warner Bros. in 1999. He then released the album Celebration.

Later Projects and Collaborations

In 2002, Norman Brown started a group called BWB. He formed it with saxophonist Kirk Whalum and trumpeter Rick Braun. They released their first album, Groovin'.

In 2007, Norman had a number one smooth jazz song called "Let's Take a Ride." It was from his album Stay with Me. His music has even been played on The Weather Channel. His song "Lydian" was on their 2008 jazz album.

In 2011, Norman worked with Gerald Albright on the album 24/7. Their song "In the Moment" became a number one hit. This album also earned him a nomination for a Grammy Award.

Awards and Recognition

Norman Brown has received awards for his music. The most famous awards are the Grammy Awards. These awards are given out every year for great achievements in music.

Grammy Awards

Norman Brown has won one Grammy Award. He has been nominated for two.

Norman Brown's Albums

Norman Brown has released many albums throughout his career. Here are some of his main albums:

Albums as BWB (Braun-Whalum-Brown)

Norman Brown is also part of the group BWB. Here are their albums:

See also

• BWB
• List of smooth jazz performers