artist info

"A culmination of Jimi Hendrix and George Benson with some of Wes Montgomery thrown in." - Jazz Times Magazine

‘Music is a language, it speaks to the invisible part of us that moves the physical part of us,” declares the charismatic, introspective, and deeply spiritual Grammy-winning guitarist Norman Brown. The multi-platinum selling and chart-topping guitar guru has been thrilling international audiences for over four decades with his jaw-dropping virtuosity, soul-stirring performances, and gravity-defying technique. The exultation that emanates from his riveting performances is hard to resist. It is no surprise that the iconic George Benson calls Norman Brown, “one of the greatest and most articulate guitarists out there.” A musician’s musician, Brown has collaborated with George Benson as well as countless others including Dave Koz, Brian McKnight, Kirk Whalum, Miki Howard, Jeff Lorber, Gerald Albright, Rick Braun, and Peabo Bryson.

March 29, 2024, Norman Brown’s fourteenth and anticipated release as a leader, It Hits Different, will be released on Shanachie Entertainment. Norman Brown is one of the busiest touring artists on the contemporary Jazz scene. As a long-time practitioner of meditation and Tai Chi he says that “balance” is central to his daily existence. He adds that actively “practicing positive mental and physical habits and working on spiritual cultivation,” keep him on the right path.

It Hits Different, is collection of eleven invigorating originals that transport you on a fantastic voyage and that seamlessly unite the best elements of Jazz, R&B, Pop, Blues, and beyond. Brown shares, “I've put a great amount of time, energy and focus into developing my gift of channeling a heavenly sound that strikes the spirit, moves emotions and makes you feel good.” His intent for his latest project was to ensure that the music connects with his fans (affectionately dubbed “Normantics”) and “hits different” from his previous recordings. “The music on this album expands my personality and artistic expression and it reveals additional elements of my character,” confides Norman.

Connection is the heart of Norman Brown’s music. When he is performing, he taps into a higher frequency and thrives in a space where he is the music, and the guitar is simply an extension of himself. There is a joy that emanates from him that is almost palpable. In return, his desire is to pass this on to his fans and to make a lasting connection. “I wish to be of service to my fellow men,” explains the Soul Train Music award winner. “I look upon my work as an opportunity to be overcome with joy and I want to inspire others to search inside themselves for the silver lining. We all have an opportunity to grow in gratitude for our lives and the blessings we have.”

Aside from making quality music for music’s sake, Norman Brown’s greatest goal is to bring people together. He concludes the goal is to achieve, “A life united in harmony in the state of a joyful peace.” Get ready to experience Norman Brown’s latest masterpiece, he hopes for you It Hits Different.