Born and raised in Kansas City, KS, Julian Vaughn was primarily a drummer when he picked up the bass guitar. He developed his playing style growing up in the church where his grandfather, and then father, pastored. You can hear both of these influences infused in his music, as he elevates the lead bass role in modern jazz.

In 2010, Julian released his debut jazz album The Purpose Project, marking his entry into the smooth jazz world. In 2012, he dropped Breakthrough — featuring the hit “On Your Feet” which soared to #1 on the Billboard charts.

Julian has followed up with Limitless (2015), Bona Fide (2017), Supreme (2019), Chapters of Love (2021), and SOLO (2022), creating a consistent name for himself with 4 Billboard #1s on his own and 8 as a featured artist. In 2020, Julian was ranked the #2 Smooth Jazz Artist of the Year.

Julian has performed at the biggest jazz festivals across the U.S. and internationally in Dubai, South Africa, Nigeria, Nairobi, Italy, Spain, and Germany, inspiring audiences everywhere with his soulful bass melodies.

Although the bass is often associated with funk, Vaughn likes to play with more of a finesse style as well as some funk. His newest single “Gratified,” released in March, showcases the finesse with which he plays bass, the perfect song going into spring with a smooth groove and beat. Vaughn’s lead piccolo bass drives while Oli Silk’s featured piano sits passenger, cruising down Malibu. It’s already making its way up the Billboard charts.

Julian Vaughn returns to Middle C Jazz on Friday and Saturday May 30-31. 
Learn more about Julian through his website.