Joel Del Rosario

2012 Nominee – Jazz Artist of the Year – 22nd Annual LA Music Awards

Holding on to the sacred elements of straight ahead jazz,but fusing them with r&b, classical, and hip-hop, guitarist/producer Joel Del Rosario‘s music exudes the diversity of San Francisco’s cosmopolitan culture.  This uniqueness has the world listening to this young jazz guitarist, and won him the title of Coffee Talk Jazz Radio’s “Guitarist of the Year”.  Often likened to the playing styles of George Benson and Norman Brown, Joel gives tribute to the mellower side of jazz, but adds a youthful edge, turning it into a passionate and engaging experience.  Nominated for “Best Jazz Duet” (with keyboardist Surewill) at the 2012 Los Angeles Music Awards, jDR has traveled nationwide from Coast to Coast, performing at various well known jazz venues while producing music for, and alongside his jazz contemporaries.

His passion for the guitar however was born from tragedy.  At the age of eleven, Joel’s mother succumbed to a long fight with breast cancer, and it was there that Joel sought solace through music and his guitar.  During many quiet moments: contemplating, practicing, and developing a bond with his instrument, Joel became fused with his guitar, thus forming his distinct guitar playing.

Currently jDR, as he is often called, has released several top ranking projects: “Coast to Coast” which was included in the list of “Top 10 Jazz Albums of 2010” at Talking Smooth Jazz Radio, and “Side by Side” released 2013 (still strongly present on the playlists of both terrestrial and internet radio).  He has been featured various projects including Billboard charting single “By the Bay” by Cal Harris Jr. and is currently producing music for saxaphonist, Dee Lucas, along with his next project titled “From Cali to Miami”.  Changing the face of jazz and paving the future.

Look for the next movement in jazz.

– See more at: http://www.jdrjazz.com/bio/#sthash.vvlki0Sd.dpuf