..Although Texas is known for its blues and country artists, talented keyboardist Rodney Thompson shows it may be a great melting pot for jazz as well. His “Define Smooth” album is exactly that, smooth and filled with hints of gospel, soul, and R&B. “Forever in Your Eyes” features an alluring sax which is gracefully layered with smooth and silky vocals. Blending R&B with the sounds of Thelonious Monk, “749” features some of Thompson’s best keyboard work and highlights that classic jazz songwriting form that separates this genre from blues or rock. Whether you are just looking to relax or hear some exceptional keyboards playing, then “Define Smooth” should be your next CD purchase. ..-Shaun and the Radioindy. com Reviewer Team
Born in the small town of Eufaula, Alabama, Rodney had very little exposure to jazz. His interest in the piano began at age 10 while visiting his uncle in Miami. It was then that he taught himself how to read music. At age 12 he began playing the tuba for his middle school marching and concert band. Saxophonist Greg Faulkner was Rodney's band director and it was at this time that he introduced Rodney to jazz . By the end of high school he began listening and learning music by Spyro Gyro, John Coltrane and Bob James. While receiving a music education degree at Alabama A&M University, Rodney was exposed to a number of great jazz artists and performed with artists such as Ruben Studdard, Kelvin Wooten, Ken Watters, Milachi Thompson and many others. After graduation Rodney headed to Texas to teach band. Eventually ending up in Dallas, Rodney continued to perform, learn and open up with big name artists such as Miles Jaye, Roger Boykin, Marchel Ivery, Stefon Harris, Bobby Rush and others. This year Rodney will release and Smooth Jazz Album entitled “The Eufaulian”. The album features drummer extraordinaire Lumark Gulley. Rodney although considered a Jazz pianist has performed with a variety of different genres including R&B, gospel, country, blues and Latin. Through deep study in theory Rodney has composed music in a very diverse manner. With his head on straight the future looks bright for this up and coming artist.
