Back in 2011, Luther Allison was just one of the JazzArts Allstars sharing the stage in Charlotte. But fast forward to now, and he’s rubbing shoulders with the best of them at the Grammys, including breakout jazz artist Samara Joy. We couldn’t be more excited to support his debut album, “I Owe It All To You,” available everywhere now! This album is a true masterpiece that showcases Luther’s incredible talent and dedication to jazz, and we’re thrilled to have been apart of his journey to this incredible accomplishment!

Article Excerpt Courtesy of Helene Stapinski via The New York Times

“As a boy, Allison took lessons in classical piano but didn’t get serious about the instrument until he was a junior in high school, when he was discovered by the Jazz Arts Initiative in Charlotte in 2011. That program, now called JazzArts Charlotte, had just begun, and was looking for a pianist for its all-star ensemble to perform gigs out in the community and serve as a student ambassador. When a friend brought Allison in one day and he started playing, the program’s co-founder Lonnie Davis was a bit shocked

“I was so blown away,” Davis said in an interview. “He didn’t have a lot of jazz chops. But with what he was able to articulate, I knew he was special.” She proudly shared a video of Allison sitting on a piano bench next to Sean Mason, another program alum who is also now a rising piano star. The two remain friends.”

Read all about Luther and his upcoming album in this feature article from The New York Times.

“I’ve had unique opportunities to play with my elders. That gave me a lot more visibility than if I was only playing with people my age range.” – Luther S. Allison
Words by Helene Stapinsk
Images by Amir Hamja for The New York Times

Check out Luther’s latest single “Until I See You Again”

And remember to listen to his new album.