23 Surprising Facts About Larry Carlton

Larry Carlton is a Grammy Award-winning guitarist.

Larry Carlton has established himself as one of the most accomplished and respected guitarists in the music industry, earning him a Grammy Award for his outstanding talent.

He was born on March 2, 1948, in Torrance, California.

Larry Carlton’s journey as a musical prodigy began in Torrance, California, where he was born and raised with a deep passion for music.

Larry Carlton started his career as a studio musician.

Before gaining recognition as a solo artist, Larry Carlton made a name for himself as a highly sought-after session guitarist, lending his skills to numerous recordings.

He has played with renowned artists such as Steely Dan and Joni Mitchell.

Larry Carlton’s incredible guitar work can be heard on iconic albums by Steely Dan, including “The Royal Scam,” and on Joni Mitchell’s acclaimed album, “Court and Spark.”

Carlton’s signature guitar tone is known as the “Larry Carlton 335.”

Larry Carlton’s distinctive sound is achieved through his use of a Gibson ES-335 guitar, which he modified to suit his unique playing style.

He has released over 30 solo albums throughout his career.

Larry Carlton’s solo discography is extensive, showcasing his versatility and mastery of various genres, including jazz, blues, and fusion.

Carlton has received 19 Grammy nominations.

His incredible talent and contributions to the music industry have led to numerous Grammy nominations, solidifying his status as a highly respected musician.

Larry Carlton has collaborated with fellow guitar virtuosos such as Robben Ford.

Two guitar icons, Larry Carlton and Robben Ford, joined forces for the collaborative album “Unplugged,” creating a mesmerizing musical experience for their fans.

He has scored music for several popular TV shows, including “Hill Street Blues.”

Larry Carlton’s musical talents extend beyond the stage and studio as he has composed memorable scores for hit television shows, leaving a lasting impact on the industry.

Carlton’s album “Last Nite” earned him a Grammy Award for Best Pop Instrumental Performance.

Larry Carlton’s exceptional work on the album “Last Nite” was acknowledged with a Grammy Award for Best Pop Instrumental Performance.

Larry Carlton was a member of the jazz fusion group Fourplay.

He collaborated with other exceptional musicians to form the highly successful jazz fusion group, Fourplay, creating a unique and captivating sound.

He has a deep admiration for blues music.

Larry Carlton’s musical influences encompass a wide range of genres, but the blues holds a special place in his heart, evident in his soulful and emotive playing.

Carlton has been recognized as “Mr. 335.”

His association with the legendary Gibson ES-335 guitar and his remarkable skill set have earned Larry Carlton the nickname “Mr. 335” among fellow musicians and fans alike.

He has taught guitar masterclasses and shared his knowledge with aspiring musicians.

Larry Carlton has dedicated himself to mentoring and inspiring the next generation of guitarists through his insightful masterclasses and workshops.

Larry Carlton’s iconic guitar solo on Steely Dan’s “Kid Charlemagne” is widely acclaimed.

His mesmerizing guitar solo on “Kid Charlemagne” showcases his exceptional talent and continues to be praised as one of the greatest solos in rock history.

He received the “Titan of Tone” award from Seymour Duncan.

In recognition of his extraordinary contribution to the world of guitar playing, Larry Carlton was presented with the prestigious “Titan of Tone” award by Seymour Duncan.

Carlton’s album “Friends” features collaborations with iconic musicians such as B.B. King and Michael McDonald.

“Friends,” one of Larry Carlton’s acclaimed albums, showcases his ability to bring together legendary artists for unforgettable musical collaborations.

He is a member of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

Larry Carlton’s immense impact on the music industry led to his induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, honoring his outstanding contributions as a guitarist.

Carlton’s album “On Solid Ground” reached number one on the Jazz Album Charts.

His album “On Solid Ground” reached great commercial success, topping the charts and further establishing his prominence in the jazz music scene.

He has collaborated with legendary producer Quincy Jones.

Larry Carlton had the privilege of working with Quincy Jones on several projects, combining their talents to create memorable and influential music.

Carlton’s album “Sapphire Blue” showcases his ability to blend various musical styles.

“Sapphire Blue” demonstrated Larry Carlton’s versatility as he seamlessly fused elements of jazz, blues, and rock, creating a captivating and dynamic listening experience.

He has been featured on countless soundtracks for movies and television.

Larry Carlton’s exceptional guitar skills have graced numerous soundtracks, contributing to the atmosphere and emotion of films and TV shows.

Carlton’s collaboration with Steve Lukather resulted in the highly acclaimed album “No Substitutions: Live in Osaka.”

No Substitutions: Live in Osaka” showcased the exceptional talents of Larry Carlton and Steve Lukather, producing a live album that stands as a testament to their virtuosity.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Larry Carlton is a legendary guitarist with a rich and varied career. From his early days as a jazz fusion pioneer to his work as a sought-after session musician, Carlton has left an indelible mark on the music industry. His unique style, characterized by impeccable technique and soulful playing, has earned him numerous accolades and a dedicated fan base.

Throughout his journey, Carlton has navigated the ever-changing landscape of the music industry, continuing to innovate and captivate audiences worldwide. Whether performing with his own band or collaborating with renowned artists, Carlton’s artistry and musicality shine through.

As we delve into the surprising facts about Larry Carlton, it becomes clear that his contributions to music transcend genres and his influence continues to inspire aspiring musicians. From his Grammy-winning albums to his iconic guitar solos, Carlton has cemented his status as a true guitar virtuoso.

FAQs

Q: What are some notable achievements of Larry Carlton?

A: Larry Carlton has won four Grammy Awards and has been nominated for numerous others. He has also received the “Lifetime Achievement Award” from Guitar Player magazine.

Q: Has Larry Carlton collaborated with other musicians?

A: Yes, Larry Carlton has collaborated with a wide range of artists, including Steely Dan, Joni Mitchell, Michael Jackson, and Fourplay, among others.

Q: How did Larry Carlton get his start in the music industry?

A: Larry Carlton started his career as a session musician in Los Angeles, playing on countless recordings for artists such as The Partridge Family, Quincy Jones, and The Fifth Dimension.

Q: What is the musical style of Larry Carlton?

A: Larry Carlton’s musical style encompasses various genres, including jazz, blues, rock, and fusion. His playing is characterized by intricate melodies, tasteful phrasing, and a soulful tone.

Q: Is Larry Carlton still active in the music industry?

A: Yes, Larry Carlton continues to perform, record, and tour extensively. He remains a prominent figure in the music industry and continues to inspire guitarists worldwide.