Biography
Composer and arranger Rob Mathes first gained notice as a guitarist and keyboardist supporting Chuck Mangione. Following the placement of his songs with Kathy Mattea and additional artists, his breakthrough arrived in 1996 when “Star Bright” served as the title track for Vanessa Williams’ holiday album. He also handled arrangements for numerous tracks on the project and contributed vocals and instrumental parts during the sessions, earning Williams a Grammy nomination. Mathes subsequently worked as conductor and guitarist for Luciano Pavarotti’s “For War Child” benefit concert, staged to support Bosnian relief and featuring headliners Eric Clapton, Elton John, Sheryl Crow and additional performers; in 1998 he arranged the related “Pavarotti and Friends” benefit as well. During that period he collaborated with Celine Dion, Natalie Cole, Elton John and Boyz II Men. Late in 1998 he released Christmas Is Coming, an album issued under the name Rob Mathes & Very Special Friends and featuring Williams, David Sanborn and Michael McDonald among its guests.
Albums
