Happy birthday to the wonderful, swinging guitarist Russell Malone who has worked with just about everyone including Dianne Reeves Music, Diana Krall, Kenny Barron, Ron Carter, Harry Connick Jr, Wynton Marsalis and so many more as well as recording nearly a dozen records as a leader. Born in Albany, Georgia, hebegan playing at the age of four with a toy guitar his mother bought him. He was influenced by BB King and The Dixie Hummingbirds. When he was 12, he saw George Benson performing with Benn

One of the great mainstream guitarists of our time is Russell Malone who is celebrating his 59th birthday today. He's mostly self taught, having started on a toy guitar when he was 4. A first call guitarist, his discography is really a who's who of jazz. He's worked with the great Jimmy Smith, Harry Connick Jr, Diana Krall and is part of Ron Carter's Trio along with Donald Vega. With echoes of Wes Montgomery and Grant Green, he's developed a sound all of his own. Here's his beautiful rendition o