About Carl
Carl grew up in Gary, Ind., where his mother (Doris Edmonds) started giving him piano lessons at age 4. He played other instruments (sax, guitar, drums) through his school years before settling on keyboards. At a very early age he was exposed to James Brown and Sly Stone by his uncle George Brown (an accomplished piano and organ player). Carl was also exposed to jazz standards by his grandfather (Cleophas Brown) playing piano and singing songs like Sunny Side of the Street and Stardust.
Growing up in church and being exposed to gospel music added another dimension to Carl’s style. Carl’s grandmother’s (Velma Brown) anthem and hymn singing with a beautiful operatic voice left a lasting impression on him also.
Carl’s eagerness to learn more about music landed him at the American Conservatory of Music of in Chicago, Ill. studying jazz piano. His uncle Ben Brown inspired this decision to continue an education in music. Carl spent a lot of time at his uncle's music store, "Browns Music Center" when he was very young listening to the latest music and learning to play various instruments. Ben was also a major influence on Carl’s career as he was a music, producer and co-owner of Steeltown Records that recorded the Jackson 5’s first record “Big Boy.”
Carl played the Chicago and Gary area circuit before moving to L.A., where he’s played and recorded with some of the best and top musicians in the L.A. area. This project represents his various musical experiences and influences. Smooth Jazz, with R & B, Funk, and Hip-Hop flavors.