Hitmaker Paul Brown Signs With GRP Records

Hitmaker Paul Brown has signed to GRP Records, the leading contemporary jazz label for over twenty years. Brown, who has produced 38 #1 hits on Radio & Records' Smooth Jazz chart, has never before put out a recording under his own name. He will release Up Front, his GRP Records debut, in February 2004.

Ron Goldstein, President & CEO of The Verve Music Group, commented on the signing: “As a producer in the smooth jazz arena, Paul has brought his skill and expertise as the man behind the scenes. Now, with his incredible talent as a guitarist, he steps out from behind the control room board into the main studio as a recording artist." He continued, “Fortunately for us, Paul chose GRP to begin this new journey."

“It's amazing how many of my favorite records are on GRP. It's a great feeling to be signed with them as an artist," said Brown.

Throughout his career, Brown has worked on projects with artists including Earth, Wind & Fire, Patti Austin, and Aretha Frankin. But perhaps Brown is best known for his impeccable skills in the world of contemporary jazz, where he has contributed to such chart-topping hits as “Fly By Night" (George Benson), “Slam Dunk" (Euge Groove), “That's The Way Love Goes" (Kirk Whalum), and “Just To Be Loved" (Al Jarreau). He has also crafted #1 tunes for trumpeter Rick Braun, saxophonist Boney James, and guitarist Peter White, and they all return the favor by making special guest appearances on Up Front. Jeff Lorber also appears on the CD, contributing to the leadoff track, “Wes Coast Swing."

Showcasing Brown on guitar and vocals, Up Front is a collection of 12 songs that should be embraced warmly by the NAC format. The album is comprised of numerous tunes co-written by Brown such as “Moment by Moment," “Chill Out," and “24/7," as well as a number of well-chosen covers, including “Don't Let Me Be Lonely Tonight" by James Taylor, Van Morrison's “Moondance," “Angel" by Wes Montgomery, and the Rodgers & Hart classic, “My Funny Valentine."

GRP Records is a division of The Verve Music Group, a Universal Music company. Universal Music Group is a unit of Vivendi Universal, a global media and communications company.