Chris Jasper Biography
photo credit: All Music Guide |
As an integral member of the
Isley Brothers and Isley/Jasper/Isley, and as a successful
solo artist, Chris Jasper has been at the forefront of progressive
R&B music since the early 1970s. His professional career began in 1973,
when the original Isley Brothers vocal trio expanded to include
younger brothers, Ernie and Marvin, and brother-in-law, Chris, to create the
musical component of the self-contained group, the “Isley Brothers.”
The Isley Brothers made their vinyl debut that same year with the
groundbreaking “3&3” album, followed by a series of modern R&B classics
such as “Who’s That Lady,” “Fight the Power,” “Live it Up,” and “For the
Love of You.” Chris Jasper was the key songwriter, instrumentalist,
producer, and arranger of all of the Isley Brothers material,
including the gold and platinum albums “Showdown,” “Go All The Way,” and
“The Heat Is On.” In January 1992, Chris Jasper was inducted into
The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame for his accomplishments over the 13
years he was with the group, with 11 gold and 4 platinum albums to his
credit.
In 1984, the Isley Brothers split up and Chris, Marvin and Ernie
formed Isley/Jasper/Isley. Chris, the lead vocalist on most of the
trio's recordings, was also responsible for the majority of the writing and
production for the new group. The trio released three high‑quality albums
on their CBS Associated label, including “Caravan of Love,” which
featured the #1 out-of-the-box title hit, written and sung by Chris and
subsequently covered by English recording group, the Housemartins,
who made “Caravan” an international #1 pop hit. “Caravan Of Love” has also
been used in the Dodge Caravan commercials, and was recorded by Marvin
Sap on the WOW 2000 gospel album.
In January 1988, Isley/Jasper/Isley disbanded and Chris Jasper
went solo, forming his own independent record label, Gold City Records.
In the short time following, Chris released two high-quality albums on the
Gold City/CBS label, entirely written, produced arranged and performed by
Chris. His first solo project was entitled “SuperBad,” and the
title track hit #1 on the Billboard charts.
Chris has also produced, performed and written music for other artists, including Liz Hogue's
debut album entitled “Vicious & Fresh” for the Gold City/CBS label; and “Make It
Last” for Chaka Khan's “CK” album. Albums produced by Chris Jasper
and released and distributed independently by Gold City Records include
Praise The Eternal (Chris Jasper); Out Front (Out Front); Deep
Inside (Chris Jasper) and Brotha 2 Brotha (Brothaz By Choice);
Faithful and True (Chris Jasper); With Love (Chris Jasper);
Amazing Love (Chris Jasper); and Invincible (Chris Jasper).
In addition, his songs have been used as the primary foundation for covers and
samples by both new and established Rap, Hip-Hop and R&B artists, including
Fantasia; Gwen Stefani; Whitney Houston; Alliyah; Queen Latifah; Will Smith; Ice
T; Slick Rick; Da Brat; Black Sheep; Rob Base; Notorious Big; Remy
Salaam; Boss; Keith Murray; Bone Thugs ‘N’ Harmony; 702 and many more.
“Faithful and True,” is an album that reflects Chris’ personal relationship
with God. The messages are universal. The music is R&B/Gospel/AC, etc. This CD
is truly an inspired work. Some of the songs on the CD, such as “In My Dream,” “Don’t Take Your Love From
Me,” and “Inside Of Me” were revealed to Chris in his dreams. This
album will surely touch every person that hears it.
“Amazing Love,” is rooted in classic R&B with lyrics that give praise and honor
to Jesus. For example, the song“He Walked Alone,” tells the story of Jesus
from birth, His ministry, to His ultimate sacrifice. Songs like “Faith” and
“You Answer My Prayer,” reflect Chris' personal commitment and humility
towards God. This album is full of energy and uplifting messages.
“Invincible” is Chris Jasper's newest release. The CD is musically produced in his
well-known R&B style, with each song being based on particular sections of
scripture. “Invincible” declares how great God is and the importance of staying
close to Him. As the lyrics state: “With God by your side, you'll be Invincible.”