Paul Jackson, Jr.
Guitarist • Composer • Producer • Educator
The Guitarist Behind Countless Classics—and a Smooth Jazz Voice All His Own
Few contemporary guitarists have left fingerprints on as much music as Paul Jackson Jr. While millions have heard his unmistakable playing on legendary recordings by Michael Jackson, Whitney Houston, Elton John, Luther Vandross, Quincy Jones, Daft Punk, and countless others, his own recordings reveal an artist with remarkable warmth, melodic sophistication, and effortless groove. Whether leading one of his own albums or lending subtle brilliance to another artist's work, Jackson's playing always serves the music first—a quality that has made him one of the most respected guitarists in modern music.
Artist Snapshot
Quick Facts
The Art of Playing Exactly What's Needed1
Some guitarists impress you with speed.
Others impress you with tone.
Paul Jackson Jr. does something even more remarkable; he makes every note feel inevitabl.
That instinct has made him one of the most recorded guitarists in modern music. His parts rarely dominate a performance, yet they're often the reason a recording feels complete. As a solo artist, that same musical maturity translates into beautifully crafted contemporary jazz built around melody, groove, and impeccable taste.
For listeners who appreciate musicianship over flash, Paul Jackson Jr. is a masterclass in restraint, precision, and soul.
From the listening room
Essential Listening
Down the Road (2016)
A Billboard contemporary jazz favorite that captures Jackson's relaxed melodic style while showcasing his effortless blend of groove and sophistication.
City of Refuge (2021)
Featuring Jeff Lorber, this uplifting contemporary recording highlights Jackson's lyrical phrasing and enduring creativity.
The East from the West (2008)
One of his signature smooth jazz recordings, balancing memorable melodies with tasteful, expressive guitar work.
The guitarist who can play anything.
— Herbie hancock, describing paul jackson, jr.
Artist Profile
The Story Behind the Music
Paul Jackson Jr.'s career demonstrates that musical greatness isn't always measured by standing in the spotlight. Sometimes it's found in becoming the player that producers, artists, and fellow musicians trust whenever the music demands excellence.
His playing reflects remarkable versatility. Whether supporting a pop anthem, an R&B ballad, a gospel recording, or a contemporary jazz session, Jackson instinctively understands how to enhance a song without overwhelming it. That balance between technical mastery and musical humility has kept him among the industry's most sought-after session musicians for decades.
As a solo artist, listeners hear another side of his artistry. His albums trade arena-sized productions for intimate grooves, expressive melodies, and compositions that invite repeated listening. Rather than showcasing virtuosity for its own sake, Jackson allows every phrase to breathe, creating music that feels welcoming and deeply personal.
His influence extends well beyond performance. Through teaching, mentoring, composing, and decades of recording, Paul Jackson Jr. has helped shape the sound of modern popular music while remaining one of contemporary jazz's most respected guitar voices.
In Media
Artist Gallery
Lounge Notes
From the Lounge
Why this One Matters
One of the things I appreciate most about Paul Jackson Jr. is that he's proof that subtle musicians can leave enormous musical footprints. Long before I knew his solo catalog, I'd already been hearing his guitar on countless recordings without realizing it. Once you begin exploring his own albums, everything clicks into place. His tone is unmistakable, his phrasing is effortless, and nothing ever feels overplayed. There's a quiet confidence to his music that rewards repeat listening. For me, that's the hallmark of a truly great artist—someone whose playing feels just as satisfying on the tenth listen as it did on the first.
Continue Exploring
More from the Artists Lounge
Artists Lounge
Discover More Artists Inside the Lounge
Explore more profiles, featured musicians, and the sounds that shape Vighpyr’s Place.