Karriem Riggins Virtuoso Experience June 24, 2009

From a 21st Century Virtuoso, an Evening of Music Without Boundaries

Karriem Riggins walks in two worlds. To Oscar Peterson, Herbie Hancock and Ray Brown, he is a world-class jazz drummer, giving their gigs and recording dates a presence few modern day percussionists can meet. To Kanye West, Common and Erykah Badu, he is a master drummer, beat maker and producer extraordinaire.

On June 24 and 25 at Yoshi's, Oakland,CA., these two worlds will collide in a spectacular musical event.

The Karriem Riggins Virtuoso Experience presented by Vtech, featuring Mulgrew Miller and Pete Rock, is far more than another jazz show. It's nothing less than a showcase for a true 21st century virtuoso, a man Common calls one of the greatest musicians that I have ever come across.

The evening begins with an explosive drum and DJ showcase pairing Riggins and legendary hip-hop producer Pete Rock, as they mix and weave music (genres).

Next up, the premiere of the Karriem Riggins quartet featuring the highly acclaimed jazz musician Mulgrew Miller on keyboards.

A protégée of the immortal Betty Carter, Riggins honed his jazz chops performing with such artists as Herbie Hancock, Ray Brown, Oscar Peterson, Milt Jackson, Donald Byrd, Mulgrew Miller, Bobby Hutcherson, Kenny Burrell and Diana Krall, all the while making a name for himself as a hip-hop producer and collaborator. His hip-hop credits include work with Common, Slum Village, Talib Kweli, Jay Dee, The Roots, Erykah Badu and Kanye West.

Advance tickets for these historic shows are available now at Yoshi's box office (510-238-9200) and online at yoshis.com/oakland.

For more information about The Karriem Riggins Virtuoso Experience, visit music.vtechphones.com, karriemriggins.com

Official Website: http://music.vtechphones.com, karriemriggins.com