Born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio, Riley Richard is an inspired jazz saxophonist who has plans on making his contribution to the jazz genre. Having studied at Cleveland School of The Arts, Cuyahoga community college and Cleveland State University, Riley was trained in the traditional sense of jazz analyzing the styles of John Coltrane, Charlie Parker and Sonny Sttit. Although having a heavy interest in sports at an early age, Riley was encouraged by his parents to take piano lessons in which led him to learn the flute and eventually the Alto Saxophone. His first professional gig was at the age of 14, playing with Cleveland’s legendary organist Eddie Baccus Sr.

 

From then on Riley has shared the stage with the likes of Najee, Brian Simpson, Kim waters and Boney James and the list continues. In 2016 Riley decided to work on his solo career and released his first single “Family Ties” produced and co-written by Darren Rahn. “Family Ties” was #2 on the smooth jazz media base chart and #18 on Billboard Smooth Jazz. His single spent 15 weeks on the top 30 Billboard smooth jazz charts. From then on, Riley’s next three singles have all been chart-topping including his latest single “CAPTIVATE ME” which skyrocketed to #1 on all charts.

Behind the youthful smile lies a mind steeped in melodic notes running in perfect syncopation with his heart.  Ellis Hamilton is his name, and he is the consummate saxophone player with a musical journey that started at the age of seven and took him places beyond his wildest dreams.  This engaging self-taught musician and composer is not only proficient on alto sax, but he also beats drums, tinkles the piano, and is melodious on the flute.  It’s just a short list of the many instruments he plays. 

 

At times he’s shared the stage with his mentor, multi-platinum, Grammy-nominated saxophonist, and flautist, Najee.  He has also been a guest soloist with the Reno Philharmonic Orchestra and traveled around the world gracing stages not only in America, but also South Korea, Japan, and Germany.  Yes, Ellis Hamilton is a classically trained musician graduating Summa Cum Laude from the esteemed Berklee College of Music.

 

​But really, who is Ellis Hamilton?  Well…let’s find out as we watch this complex and passionate musician win the hearts of music lovers worldwide.  Enjoy the ride with his first single “My Heart to Yours”, produced by Grammy award-winning, songwriter and producer Barry Eastmond. 

World…Introducing Ellis Hamilton!