R&R Whether you’re referring to a rare venue of "rest & relaxation" or contemplating a wonder-filled evening of "reign & revival," you must without reservation witness this brand new "inspirational" jazz phenomenon—"R&R"—lead by the incomparable, multi-talented collaboration of Howard Riley, Jr. on soprano, alto & tenor sax, and Terrence Richburg on 7-string bass, keyboards & the list goes on. Their music exceeds the traditional level of the inspirational jazz experience, while crossing boundaries and breaking down walls of musical classification. R&R brings to the forefront a commanding, innovative sound of jazz and gospel flavors—with a sense of tenacity pressing their way onto the music scene empowered by pure faith and passion.
Riley and Richburg have worked together for many years in other groups and on special projects and productions—being sought after for their individual expertise and reputation as "first chair" musicians. But only as they began to work together at various events and venues as a duet group did it dawn on them to pursue a true partnership together and produce a CD project as R&R under Terrence’s independent record label, RICHESCAPE MUSIC.
Howard is an incredible musician and saxophonist, as well as writer, keyboardist and vocalist in his own right. While constantly developing and growing in his craft, his humble spirit outshines even the beautiful notes and melodies he plays. Terrence affectionately nicknamed by his peers as "little Prince" and "the Quincy Jones of gospel" is a nationally acclaimed musician, writer, producer and arranger who has worked with the "best of the best" gospel and jazz artists and musicians across the country.
Between the two of them Riley and Richburg have racked up countless performances (some including musical directorships) with several industry greats including Richard Smallwood & Vision, Maurette Brown Clark, Vanessa Williams, Lorree K. Slye, Donnie McClurkin, Tremaine Hawkins, Ben Tankard, Kirk Whalum, Yolanda Adams, The Winans, Jennifer Holliday, Walter Hawkins, Deniece Barclay, Willie Jolly, Debbie Kirkland, Phil Flowers, Patti LaBelle, Teddy Pendergrass, Peaches & Herb, Stanley Turentine, Roy Ayers, Ashford & Simpson, Chuck Mangione, Pieces of A Dream, James Cleveland, Shirley Caesar, Nathan Heathman, Evelyn Simpson Curenton, Men and Women of the Gospel, the Washington Pops Orchestra and of course the famous Richburg Singers formerly on the "Atlantic" label. Terrence has also produced and performed on CD projects for such artists as Jeremiah Murphy, Kim Jordan, John Stoddart, Nolan Williams, Phil French, Kitt Brewington & Victorious Praise, and many others. He is also the co-writer of "By His Grace," the title cut off the latest CD by the Stellar award nominated artist, Maurette Brown Clark.
R&R's debut CD, "Ascension" is just the beginning of much more to come as they continue on their vast journey toward "the prize" through the incredible gifts of music and ministry.
This project was born out of the depths of inspiration and made possible through a special blend of creativity and talent to produce a virtual marriage of the essence of jazz and the eternal soul of gospel. It was a long, two-and-a-half year process, but well worth the wait and effort. The uphill climb— "Ascension" if you will has taken Riley and Richburg into heavenly places dwelling with God—the Creator of their inner song. Terrence took his own advice, stepped out on faith and following the Lord’s leading produced "Ascension," seeing it unfold as a flower into an incredible revelation. The response from listeners of the project has ranged from sheer enjoyment and excitement to "this is an incredible album," to "I just couldn’t stop listening to it—I played it all night long!" Don’t underestimate the potential of this engaging sea of opportunity. Don’t overlook this sincere offering of spirit-filled innovation—and certainly don’t forfeit this, your appointed moment in destiny, to hear the amazing music by R&R on their debut CD, "Ascension"—A RICHESCAPE MUSIC Productions Experience.
