Randy Bernsen

South Florida guitarist Randy Bernsen launched his recording path through an unusual route, reaching out to an array of jazz and fusion notables who, unexpectedly, signed on for his 1986 debut album Music for People, Planets & Washing Machines. Securing fretless bass giant and fellow South Florida resident Jaco Pastorius came first, followed by a return call from keyboard virtuoso Herbie Hancock that made it simpler to bring in keyboardist Bob James and drummer Peter Erskine. Issued on MCA’s Zebra imprint, the project drew coverage in Down Beat and Guitar Player and seemed poised to launch a thriving trajectory. His 1987 follow-up, Mo’ Wasabi, surpassed the first, adding saxophonists Wayne Shorter and Michael Brecker, bassist Marcus Miller, drummer Steve Gadd, and harmonica legend Toots Thielemans to the original roster; further acclaim arrived from JAZZIZ and USA Today. The 1988 album Paradise Citizens, however, failed to match that response despite retaining the same high-caliber lineup, ending Bernsen’s association with Zebra. No one then foresaw that the guitarist—who moved fluidly between clean-toned phrasing and guitar-synthesizer imitations of keyboards, saxophone, or steel drums—would never issue another major-label solo album. Bernsen instead performed locally, toured Japan and Malaysia, obtained his commercial pilot’s license, and composed music for television and, later, the Internet. A period alongside former Weather Report leader Joe Zawinul, filling the chair vacated by fellow South Florida guitarist Scott Henderson, produced strong contributions to the 1992 Lost Tribes release; the following year Bernsen independently issued Calling Me Back Home, again featuring an all-star cast. His regular engagement at a Fort Lauderdale venue led to the 1997 live recording Live at Tavern 213, showcasing fluid improvisation from Bernsen, bassist Pete Sebastian, and drummer John Yarling. A 1998 Mexico tour alongside violinist/vocalist Nicole Yarling, saxophonist Richard Brookens, bassist Javier Carrion, and drummer Archie Pena resulted in the 2001 album Live in San Miguel de Allande. Whether piloting aircraft or leading bands on guitar, Bernsen’s path has remained as elevated as he chooses.