A jazz saxophonist, songwriter, and composer who blended traditional and modern styles, creating a unique sound that resonated with audiences. Known for his soulful and introspective playing style.
Tom Borton, the renowned American jazz saxophonist, songwriter, and composer, left an indelible mark on the music industry. As the founder and CEO of Los Angeles Post Music, Inc., Borton's creative genius transcended the realm of music, influencing television and film scores alike.
Born on January 4, 1956, in Norristown, Pennsylvania, to Robert G. and Phyllis M. Phelps Borton, Tom's fascination with music began at the tender age of 7, when he started playing the saxophone. His family's move to Indianapolis, Indiana, proved to be a turning point, as he immersed himself in the local music scene, eventually becoming a member of his school band at Eastwood Junior High School.
Borton's talent was evident from an early age, as he won a talent show at a summer music camp held by Purdue University in 8th grade. During his high school years, he played with Tarnished Silver, a band that featured notable musicians such as R&B singer and songwriter Kenneth Edmonds (aka Babyface), record producer Daryl Simmons, and drummer Rayford Griffin. After graduating from North Central High School in 1974, Borton attended Indiana University Bloomington, where he joined the band Streamwinner, featuring guitarist David Grissom and drummer Kenny Aronoff.
In 1981, Borton made the bold move to Los Angeles, California, where he began writing for television and film music. This new chapter in his life marked the beginning of a fruitful career, with Borton becoming an in-demand composer for various projects.
In the summer of 1987, Borton joined The Big Picture band as a composer and alto saxophonist, alongside singer and songwriter Joanna St. Claire. Two years later, he signed with the MesaBluemoon Recordings label, releasing his debut album, Dancing With Tigers, which he coproduced with jazz musician Vel Lewis. Two tracks from the album, "Wherever You Are" and "Looking for a Way," gained airplay during The Weather Channel's Local Forecast segment.
Borton's sophomore album, The Lost World, released in 1992, featured Lewis once again, with the second track, "Swingopolis," being included on the jazz compilation album The Best New Jazz in America Volume 3. Additionally, Borton coproduced two albums for Steve Alle, The Magic Hour (1995) and Mirage (2003).
Tom Borton's contributions to the music world extend far beyond his own albums. As a composer, songwriter, and entrepreneur, he left an indelible mark on the industry, inspiring a new generation of musicians and composers. Through his work with Los Angeles Post Music, Inc., Borton paved the way for future innovators, cementing his place as a visionary in the world of music.
Borton's legacy serves as a testament to the power of creativity, perseverance, and innovation. As we reflect on his remarkable journey, we are reminded of the profound impact he had on the music industry, and the lasting influence he will continue to have on future generations of musicians and composers.
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