Nick Colionne
@ Pigeon Island, St. Lucia Jazz Festival
10 May 2008

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Biography

Chicago born, bred and still residing guitarist Nick Colionne’s professional career started art the age of 15 He toured all over the world with rock bands and some of the greatest legends of R&B, from The Staples Singers to Curtis Mayfield.

Colionne launched his solo career in 1994 with “It’s My Turn” which reached #13 on the national charts, and he hasn't looked back since.

“Jazz was my upbringing, but initially pursuing a career as a sideman meant I had to become well versed in R&B, blues and heavy metal. When I play live, I incorporate all kinds of music and have a lot of fun. All of these styles have contributed to defining my own sound as an artist.”

Colionne's sustained chart-topping Radio history combined with his incredible live performances has propelled him to the upper echelons of smooth jazz stardom. Most recently, he won the International Instrumental Artist of the Year Award by the Canadian Smooth Jazz Awards; the 2006 winner was Trumpeter Chris Botti.

Nick Colionne’s charismatic stage presence, combined with his guitar virtuosity, are evidence he’s succeeded; audiences love the excitement and energy he brings to every performance. Nick Colionne's latest CD “Keepin' It Cool” on Narada Jazz found the first single “Always Thinking of You” propelling him to the top of the charts once again. This single was #9 for the year 2006 on Radio and Records, and Nick was the #9 Artist of the Year.

Nick Colionne continues to impress audiences worldwide with his charismatic lively performances. It seems the only way is up for this colourful character. Colionne explains;

“The most exciting part of all of this for me is that I am actually living my dream, getting a chance to play guitar for people in so many places”. The greatest moments come when I look at their faces in the audience when I play, and I realize that I'm making them feel what I'm feeling. That's a fascinating level of communication”.

Review

Nick Colionne certainly has the whole package – An electrifying guitar style, mesmerising stage presence and an eye catching colourful wardrobe. Colionne’s fellow musicians, journalists and Pigeon Island patrons were enthralled. Though his music was unfamiliar to me, I felt impelled to listen… and I definitely did enjoy!

Robin Francis
© Michael Valentine Studio Ltd.