Norman Connors

Norman Connors is a Philadelphia-born jazz drummer, composer, and producer known for blending jazz, soul, and R&B into a smooth, accessible style that gained popularity throughout the 1970s and 1980s. He first emerged on the jazz scene as a sideman for greats like Pharoah Sanders and Herbie Hancock, and eventually stepped into the spotlight with his own solo work that featured a rotating cast of talented vocalists and musicians. His innovative approach to jazz fusion helped shape what would become known as the quiet storm and smooth jazz genres.

Connors' albums, including hits like Romantic Journey, You Are My Starship, and Take It to the Limit, showcased his knack for discovering and spotlighting vocal talents such as Michael Henderson, Phyllis Hyman, and Jean Carn. His work often walked the line between soulful ballads and jazz instrumentation, making him a staple on late-night radio and a respected name among both jazz aficionados and R&B fans. With a career spanning decades, Connors remains a key figure in the world of jazz and soul fusion.

Genres

Quiet Storm

Philly Soul

Pop

R&b

Soul

Jazz

Funk

Contemporary Jazz

Jazz Fusion

Smooth Jazz

Related Artists

Roy Ayers

Patrice Rushen

Phyllis Hyman

George Duke

George Benson

Bobby Caldwell

Ronnie Laws

Lonnie Liston Smith

Al Jarreau

Earl Klugh

The Crusaders

Ramsey Lewis

Latest Release

The Essential Norman Connors - The Buddah/Arista Years

Norman Connors

Album - 34 Tracks - Released March 16, 2018