“Midón lives in a world of sound.” – NPR Tiny Desk
Upon graduating from the prestigious jazz program at the University of Miami, Raul Midón established himself as a first-call session singer. He contributed background vocals to more than 60 Latin recordings, many of which earned Grammy recognition. In 1999, he was invited to join Shakira’s touring band, but he opted to pursue his own career in New York. Within a year, he made his debut at Carnegie Hall with the Movie Music of Spike Lee. Later, Spike himself asked Raul to compose the end credit song for She Hate Me.
Throughout his career, Raul collaborated with industry legends such as Bill Withers, Herbie Hancock, Sting, Terence Blanchard, and Dianne Reeves. He earned two Grammy nominations for his albums Bad Ass and Blind and If You Really Want. Additionally, he recorded all the vocals for both albums in his home studio, showcasing his skills as an accomplished recording engineer.
In 2019, Raul received an invitation to speak at his high school alma mater, Santa Fe Prep, and he received the Distinguished Alumnus Award from the University of Miami. His album, The Mirror, earned a nomination for Best Jazz Album at the Libera Awards in 2021. That same year, he was recognized as the Disability Rights Ambassador of the Year. Jason Mraz, a friend and colleague, presented him with the award in a virtual ceremony.
During the lockdown, Raul continued collaborating with colleagues, contributing a duet to the Grammy-winning Mendo by Alex Cuba. He also fulfilled a long-time dream of recording a guitar duets album with some of his favorite guitarists, including Mike Stern, Dean Parks, Lionel Loueke, Julia Bailen, Stephane Wrembel, and Alex Cuba, among others. As he continues to tour, write, and record, Raul is also working on a novel titled Tembererana.
Recommended for Fans of José James, Bobby McFerrin, George Benson and John Scofield.
LEARN MORE: https://www.raulmidon.com/
Photo Credit: Blair Allen
