Lin Rountree

Detroit-based trumpeter Lin Rountree is a soulful performer with a bent toward smooth jazz and R&B. Born in New York, City in 1971, Rountree grew up in Alexandria, Virginia where he first began playing trumpet around age 11. A talented high school player, he often participated in music programs offered through the Duke Ellington School for the Performing Arts. He later honed his skills at Florida A&M, where he earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration, and was a member of the school's famed marching band. Also during this period, he continued to develop his love of jazz, studying the music of artists like Miles Davis, Freddie Hubbard, Tom Browne, and others. After graduating, he relocated to Detroit and began working regularly leading his own band. In 2005, he made his debut as leader with Groovetree. He returned with several more well-regarded independently produced efforts including 2008's Sumthin' Good and 2011's Soul-Tree: The Soul-Jazz Experience. Signing with Trippin' N' Rhythm records, Rountree released 2013's Serendipitous, followed by 2015's Soulfunky. In February of 2018, he delivered Stronger Still, which included the chart-topping smooth jazz single "Pass the Groove." ~ Matt Collar