Ray Gelato | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Background information | |
| Birth name | Ray Keith Irwin |
| Also known as | "The Godfather of Swing"[1] |
| Born | 25 October 1961 London, England |
| Genres | |
| Occupation(s) | Saxophonist, singer, songwriter and bandleader |
| Instrument(s) | Tenor saxophone, vocals |
| Years active | 1980s–present |
| Website | Official website |
Ray Keith Irwin (born 25 October 1961),[3] known professionally by his stage name Ray Gelato, is a British jazz, swing and jump blues saxophonist, singer and bandleader.[2] He is known as one of the major forces in the revival of swing music.[4] Gelato has performed in a private capacity for Richard Branson, Paul McCartney and Elizabeth II amongst others.[5]
AllMusic noted that "Gelato has been hugely successful, finding a niche and retaining his dominance in it through hard work, good musicianship and a flair for showmanship".[2] Jools Holland meanwhile opined that "He plays what he means, and means what he plays".[6]
- ^ Cite error: The named reference
Telegraphwas invoked but never defined (see the help page). - ^ a b c Cite error: The named reference
AMGwas invoked but never defined (see the help page). - ^ Chilton, John (1 May 2004). Who's Who of British Jazz: 2nd Edition. Bloomsbury Publishing. p. 147. ISBN 9780826423894. Retrieved 9 June 2016.
- ^ Pener, Degen (27 June 2009). The Swing Book. Little, Brown. ISBN 9780316076678. Retrieved 9 June 2016.
- ^ Clarke, Sternberg. "Ray Gelato – Swing Jazz To Book or Hire – Sternberg Clarke". Sternbergclarke.co.uk. Retrieved 9 June 2016.
- ^ "Ray Gelato and The Giants Swing and Jump with this great Jazz Entertainer at Hideaway Streatham – HIDEAWAY – London's premier live music and comedy club". Hideawaylive.co.uk. Retrieved 9 June 2016.