Reggie Watkins was a West Virginia native who was born in Wheeling on August 24, 1971. In high school, he played tuba and trumpet before moving to valve trombone and then slide trombone. He was a West Virginia University music major when he first heard J.J. Johnson play the ‘bone. He said, “From the moment I heard him sing solo, my whole life changed.” J.J.’s melodic idea, his clear tone, and the sight of him playing really got me. While I was dazzled by his speed, it wasn’t those other things that mattered most.” Watkins was influenced in Pittsburgh by Roger Humphries. Roger Humphries is a local legend who played with Horace Silver on classic albums like “Song for My Father”. Watkins was involved in many bands and became well-known for his strong, rhythmic playing. Watkins was Maynard Ferguson’s trombonist and music director in 1999. He also became an arranger. On “Swingin’ For Schuur”, the 2001 album that the trumpeter recorded with Diane Schuur, he is featured as a trombonist/arranger. Watkins was a performer at the 16th Annual Thelonious Monk Institute of Jazz Competition in 2003. This competition is the only one dedicated to trombones. Andre Heyward, of the Lincoln Center Jazz Orchestra, won his award. He was delighted to be selected as one of the 11 semi-finalists by trombone legends Conrad Herwig, Eddie Bert, and to perform with the all star rhythm section of Eric Reed and Robert Hurst. He said, “I also got the opportunity to perform in front my idols.” It was an incredible experience.” Watkins’ first album, “A-List,” was recorded the next year as part of Maynard Ferguson Presents. His compositions and arrangements were featured on the recording. Watkins was part of the Grooveline Horns in Austin, Texas, from 2008 to 2013. They played with Jason Mraz (“I’m Yours”), a pop artist. The Grooveline Horns is a pop and funk section that can play everything from Engelbert Humperdinck through to the Beastie Boys. His time with Mraz is the most important experience in his professional life. From http://www.prweb.com
