RAY OBIEDO CD RELEASE at Yoshi's Oakland

The world of contemporary jazz guitarist Ray Obiedo is an energetic and hypnotically rhythmic soundscape. It shows off the passion, flavor and style of the Northern California region that nurtured the musical soul of this fascinating and prolific jazz artist. Although Obiedo didn’t begin seriously studying guitar until his last year in high school, he had already been deeply influenced by artists like Miles Davis, Wes Montgomery, and Antonio Carlos Jobim. He became totally focused on mastering his instrument and learning the craft of songwriting throughout the 80’s and 90’s, and his career as a jazz artist began taking form. Obiedo has performed with many of jazz’s most celebrated stars including legendary organist Johnny “Hammond” Smith, trombonist Julian Priester, Azteca with Pete and Sheila Escovedo The opportunity to play alongside the great horn masters Pee Wee Ellis, Fred Wesley, and Maceo Parker from James Brown’s iconic funk ensembles was a true privilege.Touring the world with jazz superstar Herbie Hancock in 1978-79 was the gig of a lifetime! As a session player, Obiedo’s guitar work has appeared on albums by artists as diverse as Grover Washington Jr, Lou Rawls, George Duke, Herbie Hancock, Sheila E, Brenda Russell, and The Whispers.