Richard Wilson Soulful Jazz

Richard Wilson is a respected soulful jazz, bossanova and blues songwriter and performer based in Memphis.

He writes smooth melodic songs with a swing bossa and jazz feel ,drawing soulful inspiration from this area.

He is also a Recording Academy member.

Originally from UK - his sound has been influenced by a wide range of music : basically everything from Sergio Mendes to Aretha Franklin via Georgie Fame!

Performing weekly in Memphis at many venues including : Villa Castrioti ,Crosstown Concourse ,Rum Boogie Cafe ,Blues Hall ,Kings Palace and other venues on Beale Street, Memphis- he has become recognized as a familiar face on the music scene.

Although playing jazz and bossanova now -he grew up in the 1960’s ,was self taught and inspired by the Beatles, folk music such as Peter Paul and Mary,Donovan -as well as the great 60's Brazilian bossa groups such as Sergio Mendes and Brasil 66 - he created his own style.

The emergence of Punk and New Wave in 1977 in the UK , galvanized him to write songs , form a band , play live and create an individual sound - which was the requirement at the time: basically start something exciting, new and fresh!

Switching to bass in the early 1980's -he fronted many different New Wave bands -inspired by the energy of The Police and The Stranglers- playing his own compositions.

Playing in pubs and the university circuit throughout the 1980’s toughened up his performance and songwriting chops.

Working in the recording industry selling analog recording tape and equipment for many years ,would eventually bring him to the USA in the 90's.

Having moved to Memphis many years ago-its a natural fit for him: the spiritual home of blues and gospel - that permeates his work and helps his writing in his view.

Performing live every week , he also releases original albums every year -working with great Memphis producers and musicians including Boo Mitchell ,Charles Hodges (of Hi Records/Al Green fame at Royal Studios) - as well as Scott Bomar (Hustle and Flow) at Sam Phillips Recording - and Katrina Anderson (of Stax legends The Bar-Kays)

As Wilson notes : “This great city definitely helps my creativity and I am blessed to be surrounded by such great musicians.”

He has also written a book, examining his songwriting and lyrics.

  “Writings-Volume One” (CLICK HERE to see on Amazon)

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