Ronald “Boo” Hinkson’s talent transcends cultures and sounds, bringing a fresh and innovative blend of jazz and Caribbean music. A gifted composer, producer, and heralded guitarist, Boo’s unique approach and versatility enable him to deliver a distinctive signature sound.
Born in St. Lucia and raised on a diet of Ellington, Davis, and Coltrane, Boo’s name is synonymous with St. Lucian music. His mother, who was also an accomplished guitarist, was his first teacher. His musical career began with the Tru-Tones, a group he started in St Lucia, who commanded stages locally and internationally for two decades. So much so in fact, that their eclectic blends of Caribbean and pop rhythms garnered them an appearance at Superbowl XIII. Today, he is an exceptionally accomplished musician who has stayed true not only to his Jazz roots, but also to his West Indian culture. Boo couples his appreciation of the old masters, with Contemporary Jazz, and Soca in his music and lyrics; and as a result his popularity has continued to spread.
His Zephryn Records debut CD entitled “Beyond” was a testament to his growth as a musician and as a composer. A rich, warm collection of contemporary and straight ahead Jazz tunes delivered with his own unique Caribbean flair, “Beyond” delivered on the promise of his rich and storied background. Now as he embarks on his 3rd studio CD with Zephryn Records, the solid momentum gained from singles, “How Can I”, “Dance The Hall” and “Making It Easy’ (featuring label-mate Phillip Doc Martin) have him primed for even bigger success. He continues to deliver solid radio hits infused with his distinct Caribbean flair. His Latin flavored new single, “Friday Afternoon” (co-produced by Blake Aaron), already has radio buzzing, grabbing MOST ADDED honors out the box. The future for Ronald Boo Hinkson is indeed sunny! Boo Hinkson’s performance track record includes international stages from the Caribbean, to the U.S., Europe, and most recently the Monaco Jazz Festival and New York’s Lincoln Center with International Superstar Hugh Masekela. Boo has opened for scores of musical greats including George Benson, Al Jarreau, India Arie, and Grover Washington, and has even been featured at a state function for former President Bill Clinton. His music has been showcased on the popular day-time television show “One Life to Live”, and his live performances have been aired on the BBC, BET Jazz, and Bravo TV, to name a few.
Photo by Fritz Photographic