Artist Name: Grover Washington Artist Biography: Born December 12, 1943 in Buffalo, New York, Grover Washington Jr. became one of the most popular saxophonists of all time before his untimely death in December 1999. Washington established his roots in R&B and soul-jazz combos after moving to Philadelphia in 1967, when he began a string of gigs with organ-grinding legends like Charles Earland and Johnny Hammond Smith. However, he is best known for the role he had in shaping the so-called ³smooth jazz² of the ´90s. When Hank Crawford could not make a recording date in 1971, Washington replaced him; the resulting album, Inner City Blues, was an artistic and financial success. For the duration of his career, Washington remained in the spotlight; his 1975 album Mister Magic was the first of many gold and platinum records to follow. Washington cultivated a personal tone on the soprano, tenor, and alto saxophones, influencing a generation of musicians including Kenny G. E-mail:   Web Site: