Grover Washington, Jr.

The Profile

American saxophonist from Buffalo, New York, a key figure in the rise of smooth jazz. Began playing sax at eight; celebrated for albums such as Mister Magic (1975) and Winelight (1980). Died in 1999.

Collaborated with arrangers and session players such as Bob James and Marcus Miller; Winelight features the hit "Just The Two Of Us" with Bill Withers. Died in 1999 of a cardiac event.

DeBaser publishes two in-depth reviews of Grover Washington, Jr., centered on Mister Magic (1975) and Winelight (1980). Reviewers discuss his role in the rise of smooth jazz, his jazz-funk leanings, and key collaborators like Bob James and Marcus Miller. Winelight is described as a masterpiece; Mister Magic is framed as an album of maturity.