Greg Phillinganes Biography – Keyboards

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Gregory Arthur Phillinganes, known professionally as Greg Phillinganes, is a highly respected American keyboardist, vocalist, and arranger whose career spans several decades. Born on May 12, 1956, in Detroit, Michigan, Phillinganes discovered his passion for music at a young age. He began playing a neighbour’s piano by ear at just two years old and started formal lessons after his mother purchased a piano for him.

Phillinganes’ talent was nurtured under the guidance of Misha Kotler, a Detroit Symphony Orchestra pianist, who instilled in him the discipline and technique required for a successful music career. His big break came when drummer Ricky Lawson introduced him to Stevie Wonder after giving Wonder a cassette of Phillinganes’ instrumental renditions of Wonder’s songs. This led to Phillinganes auditioning for and joining Wonder’s band, Wonderlove, where he played from 1976 to 1981.

In 1978, Phillinganes began his long-standing involvement with Michael Jackson and the Jacksons, arranging the Jacksons’ album “Destiny” and playing keyboards on their follow-up album “Triumph.” His relationship with the Jackson family was close, and he often referred to Katherine Jackson as “mom.” He played a significant role in Michael Jackson’s solo albums, including the best-selling “Thriller,” although he did not receive royalties for his contributions.

Phillinganes’ work with Michael Jackson continued as he became the musical director for Jackson’s “Bad” and “Dangerous” concert tours, as well as the “Michael Jackson: 30th Anniversary Special.” His contributions to the music industry were further recognized in 2022 when he was mentioned in several episodes of the podcast series “Stories in the Room: Michael Jackson’s Thriller Album Podcast”.

Greg Phillinganes Solo Releases

As a solo artist, Phillinganes released his first album, “Significant Gains,” in 1981. The album showcased his creativity and was influenced by Stevie Wonder’s sound. Although the album was not a commercial success, the single “Baby, I Do Love You” became a minor R&B hit. His follow-up album, “Pulse,” was released three years later and featured another minor hit, a cover of Yellow Magic Orchestra’s song “Behind the Mask,” which included additional lyrics by Michael Jackson.

Throughout his career, Phillinganes has been one of the most sought-after session musicians, contributing to numerous albums across a wide range of artists and genres. He has toured with notable musicians such as Stevie Wonder, Eric Clapton, David Gilmour, and Toto. His expertise as a keyboardist and his versatility have made him a staple in the music industry.

Greg Phillinganes will join David Gilmour on his Luck and Strange 2024 Tour as keyboardist.

Links – Wikipedia, Discogs, David Gilmour Tour 2024