“He’s reamplifying the tradition of jazz piano and he’s lifting up a legacy that’s the foundation
for many people” -New York Times. Accomplished multi-instrumentalist Luther S. Allison
has forged a path on both piano and drum set, cementing himself as one of the leading voices of his
generation in jazz. The Charlotte, North Carolina native is recognized for his blues-based, gospel
inspired playing with deep roots in the tradition of swing and soul music.

Upon completing his B.A. in Studio Music and Jazz from the University of Tennessee and M.M.
in Jazz Studies from Michigan State University Allison began a career steadily touring and
recording on both instruments, supporting the likes of José James, Jazzmeia Horn, Helen Sung,
Samara Joy, Rodney Whitaker, Etienne Charles, The Baylor Project, and Ulysses Owens Jr.
Rated 4.5 stars by Downbeat, Allison’s debut album, I Owe It All To You was described as
“a portrait of a straight-ahead pianist who seems to have no weak points in his arsenal” -
Downbeat. Allison is also featured as a sideman on numerous projects – notably the GRAMMY
Award Winning single, Tight, supporting vocalist Samara Joy.

In addition to his work as a bandleader and sideman, Allison is a consummate educator and curator
– having operated as Adjunct Jazz Faculty and Chair of the Percussion Department at The
Calhoun School in New York City. Moreover, Allison has curated, and music directed performances
in conjunction with the Louis Armstrong Museum, National Jazz Museum in Harlem, Jamal
Jackson Dance Company and Soapbox Presents.
As a composer, Allison has already begun to leave an indelible mark, leading to him being
commissioned by Wynton Marsalis to compose an original work for the esteemed Jazz at
Lincoln Center Orchestra. Alongside his achievements as a musician/composer/music director,
Allison is featured as both an actor and recorded musician on Maggie Gyllenhaal's film The
Bride, contributing both on and off screen with several recorded tracks for the film score.

Luther Allison is a proud YAMAHA artist.