Gerald Albright, a West Coast native, likes coming to the Virginia area. Over the years, he’s experienced some of his highest record and ticket sales here. And every time he performs here, he feels a “oneness” with the audience. For Albright, music is about more than just notes — it’s about the shared experience between the artist and the crowd.

“There are certain songs that people want to hear when I perform, but every concert we do is different because it’s a live performance,” Albright said. “The fact that it’s jazz makes it different every time. The individual and collective moods mean the music is different every time.

Known for his soulful, evocative musical style, Albright avoids the “smooth jazz” label. Instead, he describes his music as contemporary R&B/urban jazz — a sound designed to evoke emotion in listeners.

“Whenever I sit down to write or play, I want the music to be genuine. I don’t want to sound like someone else,” Albright said, emphasizing his dedication to his craft.

Born and raised in South Central Los Angeles, Albright started playing the saxophone as a child. By high school, he was already an accomplished musician, knowing that music would be his career. He began his formal education at the University of Redlands, majoring in business management with a minor in music.

After college, Albright hit the road with jazz pianist and R&B singer Patrice Rushen in the 1980s, playing saxophone and bass guitar. His time on tour helped him establish a reputation as a skilled musician, leading to work as a studio musician with icons such as The Temptations, Ray Parker Jr., Maurice White and Anita Baker. He also toured with Quincy Jones, Whitney Houston, Phil Collins, and Teena Marie. In 1987, he recorded his debut solo album, “Just Between Us” which featured the hit single “Chill.”

“I got the record deal after touring with Anita Baker playing the bass guitar. She didn’t even know I played the saxophone,”

Albright said. “Even though I had recorded my first album, I still worked as a touring artist. One promoted the other, and I had a family to support.”

Albright and his wife have been married for 43 years and have raised two children. Their daughter occasionally collaborates with him, while their son is a professional golfer. Through the ups and downs, Albright’s wife has always been by his side.

“My wife used to collect the money at the front door when I used to play at the clubs. We still have that money box,” Albright said. “She has seen everything unfold and is such a support for me. It’s a rarity to have that kind of longevity.”

With a career spanning over 40 years, Albright has worked with some of the most notable figures in the music industry and released over 22 solo albums. He’s been nominated for nine Grammy Awards. In 2021, he received the prestigious Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award from President Biden. Known for his ability to blend contemporary R&B with urban jazz, Albright has continued to evolve with releases such as “G-Stream 3 – Full Throttle” (2024), the latest in his G-Stream series.

“I’m humbled by the life I’ve led. It’s the result of hard work,” Albright said. “Treating people right has been reciprocated. I pinch myself. I love what I do, and I’m still in the moment with the music.”

Albright performs for former Gov. Doug Wilder’s birthday (Jan. 17) on Saturday, Jan. 18, at the Greater Richmond Convention Center, with jazz guitarist Jonathan Butler. Tickets are $94.50

For more information visit jsaffair.com or call 804-510-9999.