Celebrating the Sound of Exploration

April is Jazz Appreciation Month, and we’re shining a spotlight on PRS artists contributing to the genre today.

Jazz has always been a space for exploration, where phrasing, harmony, and improvisation come together in a way that continues to evolve. From foundational fusion players to contemporary voices and genre-crossing artists, jazz continues to show up in different ways across the PRS community. This month offers a moment to recognize that ongoing evolution and the players who continue to carry it forward. Check out some of the artists below:

Adam Hawley

Adam represents the contemporary side of the genre, with a sound built on strong melodies and modern production, while still grounded in jazz tradition.

John McLaughlin

John’s work continues to define what jazz fusion can be. Across electric and acoustic projects, his approach to rhythm and harmony has remained both technical and deeply musical.

Al Di Meola

Known for precision and control, Al’s playing blends jazz, Latin, and world influences. His work continues to set a standard for modern fusion guitar.

Paul Jackson Jr.

Paul’s career spans decades of studio and live work. His playing moves easily between jazz, pop, and R&B, with a focus on feel and musicality.

Mark Lettieri

Through his solo work and contributions to Snarky Puppy, Mark brings a modern perspective to jazz-informed playing, combining groove, phrasing, and improvisation.

Denny Jiosa

Denny’s work brings together fusion and global influences, balancing technical playing with a strong sense of composition.

Eugene Pao

A key figure in the international jazz community, Eugene’s career spans performance, collaboration, and education across a wide range of musical settings.

Jon Fadem

John’s playing reflects a jazz-informed approach, with a focus on phrasing, harmony, and improvisation applied across a modern musical context.

Michael Garvin

Michael brings a modern, jazz-informed approach to instrumental guitar, blending phrasing and harmony within a contemporary playing style.

Ricardo Grilli

Ricardp’s playing sits firmly in a modern jazz context, combining strong improvisation with a thoughtful approach to composition and tone.

Mei Semones

Mei brings a more contemporary, genre-blending approach, where jazz phrasing and harmony sit alongside indie and alternative influences.

Robben Ford

Robben’s playing sits at the intersection of jazz and blues, shaped by strong phrasing, harmonic awareness, and an improvisational approach grounded in feel.