Ron Otis | Upfront

At a glance, it appears that newcomer Ron Otis has more then one reason to smile these days because he’s one the most sought after drummers on the smooth jazz scene and has a debut album titled “Upfront.” The Sterling Heights, Michigan native paints a tapestry of catchy melodies and unwavering grooves on this splendid new recording.

While being no stranger to the game, Otis stays in tune by honing his skills regularly with the cream of the crop performers in the smooth jazz genre: Calling upon the talented Bob James, Earl Klugh, Al Turner and many more.

Even though he’s laid-back, don’t let the smooth fool you! Ron Otis doesn’t take a back seat on “Upfront.” As you listen, you’ll hear the lush melodies beckoning you to indulge in all the ingredients to come celebrate his arrival as a promising soloist artist. In recent years, he’s performed and recorded with the ‘who’s who’ in the music business: including Bob James (Urban Flamingo), trumpeter Lin Roundtree (Sumthin’ Good), Earl Klugh ( Spice of Life, and Journey), bassist Al Turner (Movin’), keyboardist Brian O’Neal (Daisy), and saxophonist Justin Young (On The Way), to name a few highlights his prosperous beginning.