Robert Glasper, African-American singer-songwriter, pianist, and producer

Robert Andre Glasper, born on April 6, 1978, stands as a visionary American pianist, record producer, songwriter, and musical arranger whose illustrious career deftly bridges a myriad of musical and artistic genres, though his roots and primary focus remain firmly planted in the rich soil of jazz. His innovative approach has garnered significant critical acclaim, evidenced by his impressive tally of four Grammy Awards from nine nominations spanning eight diverse categories.

Glasper’s unique ability to weave together the intricate textures of jazz with the soulful rhythms of R&B and the raw energy of hip-hop has made him a pivotal figure in contemporary music. His work doesn't just cross boundaries; it creates new sonic landscapes where unexpected harmonies and rhythms converge.

The "Black Radio" Phenomenon: A Crossover Masterpiece

A true turning point in Glasper's career arrived with his groundbreaking crossover album, "Black Radio," which clinched the 2013 Grammy for Best R&B Album. This success wasn't merely a personal triumph; it marked a significant moment for jazz-influenced music in the mainstream. Following this pivotal achievement, Glasper's talents were highly sought after, leading him to contribute his signature keyboard work to a host of successful projects, including Kendrick Lamar's critically acclaimed album "To Pimp a Butterfly." His contribution to the track "These Walls" from that album earned him yet another Grammy, further solidifying his status as a genre-defying artist.

The "Black Radio" series has since evolved into Robert Glasper's indelible calling card, becoming synonymous with his artistic vision. These albums are celebrated for their rich tapestry of collaborations, featuring an esteemed roster of guest artists such as Yasiin Bey (formerly Mos Def), Bilal, Ledisi, Lupe Fiasco, Jill Scott, and Erykah Badu. The cultural impact of "Black Radio" was profound, breaking new ground by becoming the first album in history to simultaneously debut in the top 10 of four distinct genre charts: Hip Hop R&B, Urban Contemporary, Jazz, and Contemporary Jazz. This remarkable feat was subsequently replicated by its equally successful successor, "Black Radio 2," underscoring Glasper's sustained influence and widespread appeal.

A Master Collaborator and Global Performer

Beyond his studio wizardry, Robert Glasper is renowned for his extensive touring, which has cultivated a large and fiercely loyal global following. His live performances are an electrifying experience, showcasing his improvisational prowess and deep musicality. Furthermore, his standing as an Artist in Residence at some of the world's most prestigious festivals and institutions speaks volumes about his artistic integrity and influence. These esteemed residencies include the London Jazz Festival, North Sea Jazz Festival, The Kennedy Center, the iconic Hollywood Bowl, Carnegie Hall, and the legendary Blue Note Jazz Club, allowing him to share his unique artistry with diverse audiences and inspire future generations of musicians.

Glasper's collaborative spirit extends far and wide, as he has lent his writing, performing, and producing talents to albums by an impressive array of artists. His diverse discography includes contributions to works by Mac Miller, Anderson .Paak, Banks, jazz legend Herbie Hancock, Big K.R.I.T., Brittany Howard, Bilal, Denzel Curry, Q-Tip, Common, and Talib Kweli, among many others. This breadth of collaboration highlights his versatility and his ability to elevate any musical project he touches.

Scoring for the Screen: Emmy and Grammy Acclaim

Glasper's creative genius also extends successfully into the realm of film. He earned a coveted 2017 Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Original Music and Lyrics for his powerful song "A Letter to the Free," a poignant piece featured in Ava DuVernay’s critically hailed documentary, "13th." This impactful work was a collaboration with Common and Karriem Riggins, further demonstrating his ability to craft music that resonates deeply with storytelling. His contributions to film music don't stop there; Glasper scored the Emmy-winning documentary "The Apollo," earned a Grammy for his exceptional soundtrack to the Miles Davis biopic "Miles Ahead," and composed the original score for Issa Rae’s romantic drama "The Photograph." His ventures into film scoring underscore his versatile talent and his significant impact across various artistic mediums.

FAQs About Robert Glasper

Who is Robert Glasper?
Robert Glasper is an American Grammy and Emmy Award-winning pianist, record producer, songwriter, and musical arranger celebrated for his innovative fusion of jazz, R&B, and hip-hop.
What kind of music does Robert Glasper make?
Glasper primarily creates music centered around jazz, but he is widely known for his genre-bending style that incorporates elements of R&B, hip-hop, and soul, creating a distinct "crossover" sound.
What are Robert Glasper's most famous works?
His most acclaimed works include the "Black Radio" album series, his contributions to Kendrick Lamar's "To Pimp a Butterfly" (specifically "These Walls"), and his film scores for "13th," "The Apollo," "Miles Ahead," and "The Photograph."
How many Grammys has Robert Glasper won?
Robert Glasper has won four Grammy Awards and received nine nominations across eight different categories.
What makes "Black Radio" significant?
"Black Radio" is significant for its groundbreaking blend of jazz with contemporary R&B and hip-hop, winning a Grammy for Best R&B Album, and being the first album to debut in the top 10 of four distinct genre charts simultaneously.
Has Robert Glasper worked with other famous artists?
Yes, he has collaborated extensively with a wide range of artists including Kendrick Lamar, Common, Erykah Badu, Mac Miller, Anderson .Paak, Herbie Hancock, Jill Scott, Bilal, and Lupe Fiasco, among many others.