On September 2, 1945 in Chicago, Illinois, Marty Grebb was born to play music. As a master of keyboard, sax and guitar, Grebb grew up in a musical family of working teachers and professionals. He is best known for his work with Bonnie Raitt. However, he’s also cut sessions with Leon Russell, Levon Helm, Rick Danko, Willie Nelson, Stevie Nicks, Otis Rush, Rosanne Cash, and many others.
He started as a kid, playing behind The Dells, then Paul Butterfield and Mike Bloomfield. He hit the charts in 1967 with The Buckinghams and later wound up with The Fabulous Rhinestones. The span of Grebb’s career as a session player and sideman to name talent has taken him to the top of the line and state-of-the-art venues. What’s the highlight of his career? “Mainly being blessed to work with all the musicians and singers and people I have worked with because they are all my teachers and I’ve learned something from everybody.”
Aside from the instruments Grebb plays with versatility and authority is his vocal appeal. There is evidence of blues in the salty quality he expresses that often resides in a heritage other than his own.
Grebb made his first Telarc appearance in 1998 on Maria Muldaur’s Southland of the Heart (CD-83423). His recent Telarc release, Smooth Sailin’ (CD-83478) features the talents of Taj Mahal, Bonnie Raitt and many others. He currently resides in Malibu, CA with his wife and family.
Editors Note: While most alumni are aware of Peter Cetera's ('62) acclaimed success in the entertainment business; I have not see anyone mention Marty Grebb in previous postings. It seems ironic that just before success came to these two, they were both playing in the same group, Cal David and the Exceptions around Chicago. Marty replaced the orgianist in The Buckinghams, who was drafted, while Peter was chosen as the last add-on to the already formed CTA. After the Buckinghams success, I had heard Marty went to California a became a studio musician. The above notes represent a bio I found on the web recently.
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