Renowned guitarist LARRY CARLTON's musical story began in Southern California. He picked up his first guitar when he was only six years old. He was introduced to jazz in junior high school after hearing the Gerald Wilson Big Band album, Moment of Truth, with guitarist Joe Pass. Larry then became interested in Barney Kessel, Wes Montgomery, and the legendary blues guitarist B.B. King. Saxophonist John Coltrane was also a major influence on Carlton.

In 1968 he recorded his first LP, With a Little Help from My Friends. Calls began to increase significantly as Carlton gained distinction for the unmistakable and often imitated "sweet" sound he delivered with his Gibson ES335. He also broke new ground with his now trademark volume pedal technique, eloquently displayed in his featured performance on Crusader One with legendary jazz-rock group The Crusaders in 1971. During his tenure with The Crusaders (through 1976), Carlton performed on 13 of their albums, often contributing material.

Before his transition to a solo career, Carlton became one of the most in-demand studio musicians of the past three decades. His catalog of work includes film soundtracks, television themes, and work on more than 100 gold albums.

His more than 20 albums as a solo artist display the depth and range of expression that has garnered Carlton eight Grammy nominations, two Grammys, a spot on Hollywood's Rockwalk, a NARAS Player Emeritus award (secured after winning Most Valuable Player three years in a row and being retired from eligibility), and countless gold and platinum albums. Utterly unique, Larry Carlton has set a standard for artistry that crosses three decades (and two centuries) and he is undoubtedly destined to leave his mark on jazz, blues, pop, and rock for the foreseeable future.

Visit his website at www.larrycarlton.com