Rodney Whitaker

Rodney Whitaker is a highly respected jazz bassist, composer, and educator with a deep-rooted love for the swing and bebop traditions. Born in Detroit, Michigan, he gained widespread recognition as a member of the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra and has performed with jazz greats like Wynton Marsalis, Roy Hargrove, and Jimmy Heath. Beyond his work as a performer, Whitaker is also a dedicated educator, serving as the Director of Jazz Studies at Michigan State University, where he has mentored countless young musicians.

With a rich, warm tone and impeccable sense of groove, Whitaker has released numerous albums as a bandleader, often highlighting the works of composers like Gregg Hill and Duke Ellington. His recordings showcase his deep musicality and a keen ear for collaboration, making him one of the most respected figures in contemporary jazz. Whether teaching or onstage, Rodney Whitaker continues to be a passionate ambassador for jazz, keeping its traditions alive while pushing the music forward.

Genres

Jazz

Contemporary Jazz

Smooth Jazz

Jazz Fusion

Bebop

Swing

Hard Bop

Soul Jazz

Experimental Jazz

Post-bop

Related Artists

Christian McBride

Esperanza Spalding

Ron Carter

Avishai Cohen

Dave Holland

Wynton Marsalis

Marcus Miller

Branford Marsalis

Derrick Hodge

Peter Washington

Robert Glasper

Herbie Hancock

Latest Release

Mosaic: The Music of Gregg Hill

Rodney Whitaker

Album - 10 Tracks - Released February 28, 2025