Representative Albums: "Best of Braun," "Full Stride," "Body and Soul"
Representative Songs: "Cadillac Slim," "Notorious," "Hollywood and Vine"
Biography
A native of Allentown, Pennsylvania, trumpeter Rick Braun first surfaced as a member of the jazz-fusion outfit Auracle, formed while he was a student at the prestigious Eastman School of Music. After two LPs the group disbanded, and Braun turned to songwriting, scoring a hit with REO Speedwagon's "Here with Me; " in time he directed his focus to contemporary jazz, issuing his solo debut Intimate Secrets in 1993. After touring with Sade, he returned in 1994 with Night Walk as well as the seasonal release Christmas Present. With 1995's Beat Street, Braun's popularity continued to snowball, with 1996's smash Body and Soul launching the NAC chart-topper "Notorious." A two-time winner of the Gavin Report's smooth jazz artist of the year award, he returned in 1998 with South of Midnight. He also collaborated with Boney James on the 2000 release Shake It Up. Kisses in the Rain followed a year later. ~ Jason Ankeny, All Music Guide
This biography of a living person does not cite any references or sources. Please help improve it by citing reliable sources. Tagged since February 2009.
Before embarking on a solo career, Braun got his start by playing in several bands, including guitarist Jeff Golub's Avenue Blue. He also collaborated with saxophonist Boney James on a remake of the Hugh Masekela's "Grazin' in the Grass." In addition to his solo career, Braun also plays in the band BWB, with saxophonist Kirk Whalum and guitarist Norman Brown. In 2005, he and saxophonist Richard Elliot co-founded ARTizen Music Group.
