George Howard was an American smooth jazz saxophonist who rose to prominence in the 1980s and early 1990s. Born on September 15, 1956, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Howard's music career began with an affection for the R&B and funk of his time, with artists like Grover Washington Jr. influencing his soulful approach to the saxophone. Howard started his professional journey as a member of various bands before embarking on a solo career that would cement his place in the jazz world.

Throughout his career, George Howard released a series of albums that enjoyed significant commercial success within the genre, demonstrating both virtuosity and accessibility in his compositions and performances. Albums such as "Personal" showcased his melodic sensibilities and smooth playing style, while "Attitude Adjustment" highlighted his ability to craft engaging contemporary jazz tunes with a funky edge. Tragically, Howard passed away on March 20, 1998, at the age of 41, due to lymphoma. Despite his untimely death, Howard's music continues to be celebrated by jazz aficionados, and his contributions to the smooth jazz subgenre have left an indelible mark on its evolution.