A seven-time Grammy-winning vocalist known for his smooth, soulful voice and eclectic style, blending jazz, pop, and R&B. He's famous for his hit songs like "We're in This Love Together" and "Moonlighting" theme song.
Al Jarreau was a Grammy-winning singer and songwriter known for his smooth, soulful voice and eclectic style, which blended jazz, R&B, pop, and rock. His 1981 album Breakin' Away spent two years on the Billboard 200 chart, solidifying his status as a master of the Los Angeles pop and R&B sound.
Born Alwin Lopez Jarreau on March 12, 1940, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Jarreau was the fifth of six children to Emile Alphonse Jarreau, a Seventh-day Adventist Church minister and singer, and Pearl Walker Jarreau, a church pianist. Music was an integral part of his family life, with Jarreau and his family singing together in church concerts and benefits.
Jarreau's early life was marked by academic excellence and a passion for music. He was student council president and Badger Boys State delegate for Lincoln High School, where he also sang with a group called the Indigos. Jarreau went on to attend Ripon College, graduating in 1962 with a Bachelor of Science degree in psychology. He later earned a master's degree in vocational rehabilitation from the University of Iowa in 1964.
Jarreau's music career began to take shape in the 1960s, when he worked as a rehabilitation counselor in San Francisco and moonlighted with a jazz trio headed by George Duke. In 1967, he joined forces with acoustic guitarist Julio Martinez, and the duo became the star attraction at a small Sausalito night club called Gatsbys.
This success led Jarreau to dedicate himself to music full-time, and in 1968, he made jazz his primary occupation. He appeared on television shows such as Johnny Carson and Merv Griffin, and performed at iconic venues like Dinos, The Troubadour, and Bitter End West.
Jarreau's success was recognized with numerous awards and accolades, including seven Grammy Awards and over a dozen nominations. His iconic album Breakin' Away won the 1982 Grammy for Best Male Pop Vocal Performance, cementing his status as a music legend.
Jarreau's unique voice and style have inspired generations of musicians across genres. He sang the theme song for the popular 1980s television series Moonlighting and was among the performers on the 1985 charity single "We Are the World."
Jarreau's commitment to music and his craft has left an indelible mark on the music industry. His legacy continues to inspire and influence musicians, ensuring that his music will be enjoyed for generations to come.
In conclusion, Al Jarreau's remarkable career and legacy have left an indelible mark on the music industry. His smooth, soulful voice and eclectic style have inspired generations of musicians, and his commitment to his craft has earned him a place among the music legends of our time.
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