Shawn Raiford – man with a horn

A few years ago, before recording his popular debut album Man With a Horn, Shawn Raiford was asked by renowned bassist Derek “DOA” Allen, “Who is Shawn Raiford?”

The multi-talented musician’s response: “I’m just a guy with a saxophone who wants to play for the world.”

Leading the SRE (Shawn Raiford Experience), he’s been a beloved fixture in the Sacramento area for more than 10 years.

After seducing us this past holiday season with a tasty cover of Santa Baby, Raiford sets the stage for his sophomore collection The Next Step.

The project rolls out with the first single, Forever – an infectious and uber-melodic romantic ballad featuring an hypnotic drum groove, sizzling horn textures, and backing by Andre Delano, a snazzy sax-guitar conversation and Quintina Paris’ dreamy female background vocals.

During his musical journey, Raiford has benefited from the tutelage of some very capable musicians including keyboardist Reggie Graham and saxophonists Ron Moton, Andrew Beal and Garrett Perkins.

Raiford counts David Sanborn, Gerald Albright, Harold Rayford, Jermaine Mondaine, Rosie Haynes, Kenny G., and Grover Washington Jr. as a few of his many musical influences. And not content with simply remaining a one-dimensional musician, this cracking sax player is now learning to master the piano.

You may also like...