Artist page
Ralph Thomas is a passionate musician born in Chicago in 1950, hailing from a musical family. His diverse heritage, with a Black American father and a Native American mother, deeply influences his music. Ralph's versatility extends beyond his primary instruments, the saxophone and flute, to include vibraphone, percussion, bagpipes, and various ethnic instruments. In 1969, he was awarded a scholarship to the Chicago Conservatory of Music, where he joined the Chicago AACM and studied under notable figures like Phil Cohran and Richard Muhal Abrams. He recorded with blues legends such as Howling Wolf and Mighty Joe Young during this time. In 1974, Ralph moved to Los Angeles, signing with Motown Records and 20th Century Fox, collaborating with celebrated artists including Marvin Gaye, Jermaine Jackson, Smokey Robinson, and Rick James. His internationally acclaimed album, 'Eastern Standard Time,' was recorded and produced in 1980 and has recently been re-released. In 1981, he worked with Quincy Jones Productions on movie soundtracks like 'Roots' and 'The Color Purple.' Ralph's love for Afro-Caribbean rhythms took him to the Caribbean in 1985, where he toured and recorded with reggae artists such as Augustus Pablo and Gregory Isaac. In 1986, he moved to New York City, embracing Samba and Salsa while performing with artists like Johnny Colon, Don Cherry, Olatungi, and Sun Ra. Ralph relocated to Paris
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