John D. Stephens

An experienced, versatile composer, arranger, conductor, producer and performer with a command of woodwind instruments and a broad range of musical styles. Plays alto, tenor, soprano and baritone saxophones, flute, clarinet and bass clarinet. Fluent in Finale Music Notation. 

Upbeat, positive colleague with an extensive track record of getting the most from available resources and delivering outstanding results under deadline conditions. Born and raised in the Gulf Coast city of Beaumont, Texas. Influenced by numerous musical genres including gospel, rhythm & blues, Latin, Zydeco, Texas and Mississippi delta blues, early rock & roll, western swing and touring big bands such as William "Buddy" Collette, Benny Carter,  Count Basie and Duke Ellington. Began professional musical career as a tenor saxophonist while in high school. Studied at Houston Tillotson College, Lamar University and Armed Forces School of Music, followed by four years’ service with the U.S. Marine Corps Band. Obtained B.A. Music from Cal State Northridge. Joined Marvin Gaye Productions and has since built an extensive career as a soloist, bandleader, conductor, arranger/orchestrator (strings and horns for r&b/pop groups such as Solar Records Shalamar, Whispers, Dynasty), producer and studio recording artist. Others John has worked with are Lena Horne, Ella Fitzgerald, Cleo Laine, Aretha Franklin, Linda Hopkins, Maxine Weldon, Barbara Morrison, and others!