Band: Vital Information
Bio:
Born and raised in Georgia, USA, Baron Browne gravitated to music
at a very early age, learning to play his uncle's drumset at 7
years old. As a teenager he dabbled in piano lessons and at age
12 played guitar for a year before realizing that bass guitar
was to be his instrument.
At age 18, Baron was launched into the professional music scene
right out of high school, moving to Boston and studying at the
Berklee School of Music. After studying at the prestigious school
for a year, he began working full time in Boston with artists
such as Kevin Eubanks, Tiger Okoshi, Mike Stern, Bill Frisell
and Dean Brown.
In 1983, Baron received a call from jazz-fusion violinist Jean-Luc
Ponty. After touring for three years and recording three albums
with Ponty, Billy Cobham came calling. Baron traveled extensively
throughout Europe and the U.S. with the legendary drummer. After
three years and two albums with Cobham, Baron returned to the
Ponty band for more work.
In 1992, Baron joined the group Steps Ahead featuring Mike Mainieri
and "Saturday Night Live" saxophonist Alex Foster. One
year later he was invited by renowned jazz vibraphonist Gary Burton
to join him for tours of Japan, Europe and the U.S.
Baron's versatility with playing all styles of music allowed
him to also perform with R&B and Pop artists such as Brian
McKnight, Tom Jones and Expose'.
In 1996, Ponty called on Baron once again to record his first
live album in over 20 years ("Live at Chene Park").
The album received rave reviews from jazz critics. In 1997, Baron's
talents were secured by renowned Journey drummer Steve Smith for
a European tour with Vital Information.
The sought-after bassist has made several television appearances,
including "The Pat Sajak Show" on CBS and "Ohne
Filter" in Germany.
Baron can be heard on albums by jazz recording artist Walter
Beasley. Walter's album "For Your Pleasure" reached
the number one spot on the Billboard contemporary jazz chart.
Because of Baron's musical experience, Walter also made Baron
musical director of his touring band.
In 1999 Baron went on an extensive tour of Europe, the U.S.,
Australia and New Zealand with Steve Smith and Vital Information
to help promote their CD entitled "Where We Come From".
A live double CD of the band on that
tour was released Sept. 2000.
In the year 2002 Baron continued to tour tour with Vital Information
to promote the CD "Show em Where You Live". He was also
included in the writing and producing of this album.
While working with Vital, Steve Smith also uses Baron for his
Buddy Rich tribute band Buddy's Buddies with Mark Soskin and Buddy
Rich alumni Steve Marcus and Andy Fusco. They released 2 live
recordings showcasing that lineup. "Very Live at Ronnie Scotts'-
set 1 and set 2".
As of 2005, Baron continues to write and perform with Vital Information
as a full fledged member. Their latest release "Come On In"
received rave reviews from jazz critics around the world.
Baron has continued to be a major force in the music industry.
He has expanded his range to include producing and arranging for
other artists as well as his own projects.
Discography:
Tiger Okoshi, Muddcake (JVC)
Frank Quintero, Frank Quintero (CBS Venezuela)
Kevin Eubanks, Sundance (GRP)
Jean-Luc Ponty, Fables (Atlantic)
Jean-Luc Ponty, The Gift of Time (Atlantic)
Jean-Luc Ponty, Storytelling (Atlantic)
Jean-Luc Ponty, Live at Chene Park (Atlantic)
Billy Cobham, Warning (GRP)
Billy Cobham, Power Play (GRP)
Mark O'Conner, Heroes (CBS)
Walter Beasley, Tonight We Love (Shenachie) (also listed as Arranger)
Walter Beasley, For Your Pleasure (Shenachie) (also listed as
Producer)
Gabriela Anders, Wanting (CBS)
Walter Beasley, Won't You Let Me Love You
Walter Beasley, Rendevous (also listed as Producer)
Walter Beasley, Go With the Flow
Vital Information, Live Around the World (also listed as Producer)
Vital Information, Show 'em Where You Live (also listed as Producer)
Buddy's Buddies, Very Live @ Ronnie Scotts' (vol. 1 and 2) (2004)
Vital Information, Come On In (2005) (also listed as Producer)
Andrea Bocelli, Andrea (2005)
Zon bass of choice:
Mosaic BB5 Natural/fretted
