Ronald Muldrow - Hot Licks Abound
Ronald Muldrow
February 2, 1949 - January 31, 2007
By Eddie Becton
How many artists calmly say, without breaking out into a rambunctious laugh of disbelief, that they’ve played or recorded with the likes of Sonny Stitt, Pharoah Sanders, Mulgrew Miller, Kenny Kirkland, Chico Hamilton, Ramsey Lewis, Michael Brecker, Billy Higgins and countless others? Only a top-notch, skilled musician of educator/guitarist Ronald Muldrow’s caliber would be welcomed into the arms of such icons.
As a teen, Chicago-born Muldrow was greatly influenced by the likes of guitarists Wes Montgomery (whom Muldrow heard and vowed to follow Montgomery’s footsteps), Grant Green, Kenny Burrell, and George Benson. Muldrow developed his own voice, resplendent with crisp, fresh licks and acute dexterity. His earliest big breaks came during his stints with Eddie Harris and the Staple Singers. In 1998 piece in the LA Times, Muldrow described Eddie Harris as his "musical father."
Muldrow was not only a highly acclaimed musician, but he was also a dedicated educator, having earned bachelors (jazz studies) and masters (studio and jazz guitar) degrees at Roosevelt University and University of Southern California respectively. He also published guitar instruction books, another legacy he left for aspiring guitarists.
While Muldrow has left us physically, his endless list of performance and recording credits will forever remain emblazoned in our hearts and ears. Muldrow is survived by a son, Stephen, two daughters, Stephen, Georgia and Johari of Los Angeles, a brother, Ken, who lives in Chicago, and one grandchild. We at The Lamp extend our heartfelt condolences to the Muldrow family during this trying time.