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If you grew up in the 1970s, you probably know the name Larry Carlton. If you don’t, you definitely have heard his playing. Larry Carlton was, and for the most part, still is, one of the greatest studio guitarists ever. Just ask any Steely Dan or Joni Mitchell fan. Yet, it wasn’t just Steely Dan that he was known for. Larry Carlton played on thousands and thousands of albums. He was also a member of bands like The Crusaders and Fourplay. Besides the countless recordings to which Larry Carlton has lent his virtuoso guitar skills to, he has also created a massive body of solo work. This article presents the Complete List Of Larry Carlton Albums And Songs from his solo career.
LARRY CARLTON ALBUMS
With a Little Help from My Friends
Released 1968
Larry Carlton’s debut album, With a Little Help from My Friends, was released in 1968. This early work showcases Carlton’s burgeoning talent as a guitarist, blending elements of jazz, rock, and blues. The album, produced by Carlton himself, features instrumental renditions of popular songs from the era, highlighting his versatile playing style.
CD Track Listings:
- “With a Little Help from My Friends” – 4:13
- “MacArthur Park” – 7:04
- “Don’t You Care?” – 2:45
- “When Sunny Gets Blue” – 5:07
- “Monday, Monday” – 3:00
- “Eleanor Rigby” – 5:00
- “Heard It Through the Grapevine” – 6:00
- “Sunny” – 3:00
Singing/Playing
Released 1973
Singing/Playing, released in 1973, is a testament to Larry Carlton’s evolution as a musician. This album features Carlton not only as a guitarist but also as a vocalist, showcasing his wide range of talents. Produced by Carlton, the album is a mix of vocal tracks and instrumental pieces.
CD Track Listings:
- “I Apologize” – 4:19
- “Don’t Waste My Time” – 2:50
- “It Was Only Yesterday” – 3:30
- “All in Good Time” – 3:20
- “With Respect To Coltrane” – 4:45
- “A Pair of Kings” – 3:40
- “Every Island” – 4:00
- “Singing/Playing” – 3:55
Larry Carlton
Released 1978
Larry Carlton, released in 1978, is a pivotal album in Carlton’s discography, highlighting his mastery of the jazz-rock fusion genre. This self-titled album, produced by Larry Carlton and Larry Rosen, features some of Carlton’s most memorable compositions and guitar work.
CD Track Listings:
- “Room 335” – 5:40
- “Where Did You Come From” – 3:10
- “Nite Crawler” – 5:20
- “Point It Up” – 5:00
- “Rio Samba” – 6:50
- “I Apologize” – 4:20
- “Don’t Give It Up” – 6:00
- “(It Was) Only Yesterday” – 4:30
Mr. 335 Live in Japan
Released 1979
Mr. 335 Live in Japan, released in 1979 by Warner Bros. Records, is a live album showcasing Larry Carlton’s extraordinary skills as a jazz guitarist. Recorded during his tour in Japan, this album captures the energy and musicianship of Carlton’s live performances, highlighting why he is affectionately known as “Mr. 335” — a nod to his Gibson ES-335 guitar.
Produced by Larry Carlton, the album features dynamic renditions of his popular tracks. The live setting adds a new dimension to Carlton’s music, with extended improvisations and interactions with the audience.
CD Track Listings:
- “Room 335” – 8:00
- “Where Did You Come From” – 6:05
- “Nite Crawler” – 5:35
- “Point It Up” – 4:50
- “Rio Samba” – 9:05
- “I Apologize” – 4:25
- “Don’t Give It Up” – 7:00
- “(It Was) Only Yesterday” – 5:15
Strikes Twice
Released 1980
Strikes Twice, released in 1980 by Warner Bros. Records, is a continuation of Larry Carlton’s exploration of jazz, blues, and rock. This album showcases Carlton’s ability to blend these genres seamlessly, creating a sound that is both sophisticated and accessible.
CD Track Listings:
- “Strikes Twice” – 4:30
- “Ain’t Nothin’ for a Heartache” – 4:15
- “Midnight Parade” – 6:20
- “The Magician” – 5:00
- “Springville” – 5:40
- “Mulberry Street” – 6:10
- “In My Blood” – 4:50
- “For Love Alone” – 5:05
Eight Times Up [live]
Released 1982
Eight Times Up, released in 1982 by Warner Bros. Records, is another live album by Larry Carlton, capturing his virtuosity in concert settings. The album features live performances of his compositions, offering a raw and energetic experience of Carlton’s music.
CD Track Listings:
- “Last Nite” – 6:30
- “Blues Bird” – 5:05
- “Song for Katie” – 4:50
- “Frenchman’s Flat” – 5:30
- “Sleepwalk” – 6:00
- “Upper Kern” – 5:15
- “10 P.M.” – 5:35
- “You Gotta Get It While You Can” – 4:45
Sleepwalk
Released 1982
Sleepwalk, released in 1982 by Warner Bros. Records, presents a smoother, more melodic side of Larry Carlton’s music. This album features a collection of soulful tracks that blend elements of jazz, blues, and pop.
Produced by Larry Carlton and recorded at his Room 335 Studio, Sleepwalk includes both instrumental tracks and songs with vocals. The title track, “Sleepwalk,” is a standout, showcasing Carlton’s emotive guitar playing and innovative arrangements.
CD Track Listings:
- “Last Nite” – 5:50
- “Blues Bird” – 4:30
- “Song for Katie” – 4:45
- “Frenchman’s Flat” – 4:55
- “Sleepwalk” – 5:55
- “Upper Kern” – 4:30
- “10 P.M.” – 5:15
- “You Gotta Get It While You Can” – 4:40
Friends
Released 1983
Friends, released in 1983 by Warner Bros. Records, is an album that highlights Larry Carlton’s proficiency in jazz fusion and smooth jazz genres. The album, known for its blend of sophisticated melodies and intricate guitar work, features collaborations with various accomplished musicians, enhancing its diverse sound.
CD Track Listings:
- “Breaking Ground” – 4:45
- “South Town” – 4:55
- “Tequila” – 4:20
- “Blues for T.J.” – 5:30
- “Song in the 5th Grade” – 4:15
- “Cruisin'” – 5:10
- “L.A., N.Y.” – 4:50
- “Friends” – 4:15
Alone / But Never Alone
Released 1986
Alone / But Never Alone, released in 1986 by MCA Records, is a testament to Larry Carlton’s ability to craft deeply emotive and melodic guitar compositions. This album leans towards a more contemplative and lyrical style, showcasing his versatility and depth as an artist.
CD Track Listings:
- “Smiles and Smiles to Go” – 5:45
- “Perfect Peace” – 4:25
- “Carrying You” – 4:05
- “The Lord’s Prayer” – 4:05
- “High Steppin'” – 5:45
- “Whatever Happens” – 4:30
- “Pure Delight” – 5:30
- “Alone / But Never Alone” – 4:15
Last Nite
Released 1986
Last Nite, also released in 1986 by MCA Records, is an album that captures Larry Carlton’s live performance energy and improvisational skills. This one smokes.
CD Track Listings:
- “So What” – 7:57
- “Don’t Give It Up” – 5:32
- “The B.P. Blues” – 7:53
- “All Blues” – 8:19
- “Last Nite” – 6:30
- “Emotions Wound Us So” – 5:30
- “Band Introduction” – 0:32
- “Blues Bird” – 4:50
Discovery
Released 1987
Discovery, released in 1987 by MCA Records, is an album that combines smooth jazz with pop and rock elements, showcasing Larry Carlton’s diverse musical influences. The album, produced by Carlton, features a collection of polished and rhythmically diverse tracks.
CD Track Listings:
- “Hello Tomorrow” – 5:22
- “Those Eyes” – 4:15
- “Knock on Wood” – 4:40
- “Discovery” – 5:30
- “My Home Away from Home” – 4:53
- “March of the Jazz Angels” – 5:15
- “Minute by Minute” – 4:58
- “A Place for Skipper” – 4:45
- “Her Favorite Song” – 4:50
On Solid Ground
Released 1989
On Solid Ground, released in 1989 by MCA Records, is an album that highlights Carlton’s continued exploration of the jazz and blues genres. This album features a mix of original compositions and covers, each track imbued with Carlton’s distinctive style.
CD Track Listings:
- “Josie” – 5:07
- “All in Good Time” – 8:20
- “Michele’s Whistle” – 4:47
- “(You’re My) Wildest Dream” – 5:11
- “Number 8” – 5:12
- “Gracias” – 5:13
- “Perfect Peace” – 4:27
- “Carrying You” – 5:38
- “On Solid Ground” – 4:35
Christmas at My House
Released 1989
Christmas at My House, also released in 1989 by MCA Records, is a holiday-themed album by Larry Carlton. This album features Carlton’s renditions of classic Christmas songs, infusing them with his signature jazz and blues style.
Recorded at Room 335 Studio, the album provides a warm and festive listening experience, showcasing Carlton’s ability to adapt traditional holiday music into his unique musical language. Christmas at My House is a delightful blend of the familiar and the innovative, perfect for the holiday season.
CD Track Listings:
- “Jingle Bells” – 4:20
- “White Christmas” – 5:25
- “Silent Night” – 4:00
- “Joy to the World” – 3:45
- “The Christmas Song” – 4:30
- “Winter Wonderland” – 4:05
- “Ring the Bells” – 4:15
- “Merry Christmas Baby” – 3:50
- “Blue Christmas” – 4:10
- “My Favorite Things” – 4:55
Collection
Released 1990
Collection, released in 1990 by GRP Records, is a compilation album that showcases the breadth of Larry Carlton’s work up to that point. This album serves as a great introduction to Carlton’s music, featuring a selection of his most popular and influential tracks.
CD Track Listings:
- “Smiles and Smiles to Go” – 5:45
- “Perfect Peace” – 4:25
- “Don’t Give It Up” – 5:00
- “The Lord’s Prayer” – 4:05
- “High Steppin'” – 5:45
- “Whatever Happens” – 4:30
- “Pure Delight” – 5:30
- “Emotions Wound Us So” – 5:15
- “Bubble Shuffle” – 4:00
- “Room 335” – 5:40
Kid Gloves
Released 1992
Kid Gloves, released in 1992 by GRP Records, is an album that captures Larry Carlton in a particularly creative and exploratory phase. This album sees Carlton experimenting with various musical styles while maintaining his signature jazz and blues influences.
CD Track Listings:
- “Kid Gloves” – 4:08
- “The Preacher” – 5:00
- “Michele’s Whistle” – 4:47
- “Oui Oui Si” – 4:55
- “Heart to Heart” – 4:30
- “Just My Imagination” – 5:10
- “Where Be Mosada?” – 5:40
- “Farm Jazz” – 4:15
- “Terry T.” – 4:50
Renegade Gentleman with Terry McMillan
Released 1993
Renegade Gentleman, released in 1993 by GRP Records, is a collaboration album between Larry Carlton and harmonica player Terry McMillan. This album blends Carlton’s jazz and blues guitar with McMillan’s soulful harmonica playing, creating a unique and compelling musical experience.
CD Track Listings:
- “Crazy Mama” – 4:35
- “Layla” – 5:30
- “Mellow Out” – 4:45
- “R.C.M.” – 3:50
- “Sleep Medicine” – 4:10
- “Tight Squeeze” – 4:00
- “The King” – 4:25
- “Red Hot Poker” – 4:55
- “I Put a Spell on You” – 4:50
- “That Road” – 4:45
Live at the Greek with Stanley Clarke
Released 1994
Live at the Greek, released in 1994 by Epic Records, is a live album featuring Larry Carlton and renowned bassist Stanley Clarke. This album captures the two musicians in a live concert setting, showcasing their incredible musicianship and chemistry.
Recorded live at the Greek Theatre, the album features a mix of jazz, fusion, and funk. Live at the Greek highlights the improvisational skills of both Carlton and Clarke, making it a must-listen for fans of jazz and live music.
CD Track Listings:
- “Minute by Minute” – 5:00
- “School Days” – 7:30
- “Lopsy Lu” – 6:15
- “Quiet Afternoon” – 5:45
- “Blues for TJ” – 5:00
- “Song to John” – 6:00
- “Wild Dog” – 5:30
- “Rio Samba” – 6:50
Larry & Lee with Lee Ritenour
Released 1995
Larry & Lee, released in 1995 by GRP Records, is a collaboration album between Larry Carlton and fellow jazz guitarist Lee Ritenour. This album is a meeting of two guitar masters, blending their individual styles into a cohesive and harmonious sound.
CD Track Listings:
- “Crossroads” – 4:55
- “Low Steppin'” – 5:25
- “L.A. Underground” – 5:00
- “Closed Door Jam” – 5:15
- “After the Rain” – 4:45
- “Remembering J.P.” – 4:50
- “Fun in the Dark” – 5:05
- “Lots About Nothin'” – 4:55
- “Take That” – 4:35
- “Up and Adam” – 4:50
- “Reflection of a Guitar Player” – 5:00
The Gift
Released 1996
The Gift, released in 1996 by GRP Records, is an album that sees Larry Carlton exploring a softer, more melodic side of his music. This album features a collection of Christmas and holiday-themed songs, reinterpreted through Carlton’s signature guitar style.
CD Track Listings:
- “The Christmas Song” – 4:30
- “White Christmas” – 3:55
- “Winter Wonderland” – 4:20
- “Silent Night” – 4:00
- “Joy to the World” – 3:30
- “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” – 4:00
- “Greensleeves (What Child Is This)” – 4:15
- “Jingle Bells” – 3:50
- “The First Noel” – 4:10
- “Merry Christmas, Baby” – 3:45
Fingerprints
Released 2000
Fingerprints, released in 2000 by Warner Bros. Records, is a showcase of Larry Carlton’s sophisticated blend of jazz, blues, and rock influences. This album features Carlton’s intricate guitar work, highlighted by his signature tone and technique..
CD Track Listings:
- “Fingerprints” – 4:54
- “Silky Smooth” – 4:47
- “The Storyteller” – 4:53
- “‘Til I Hurt You” – 4:50
- “Slave Song” – 4:52
- “All Through the Night” – 4:59
- “Lazy Susan” – 4:56
- “Chicks with Kickstands” – 4:54
- “Gracias” – 4:48
- “Crying Hands” – 4:52
Deep Into It
Released 2001
Deep Into It, released in 2001 by Warner Bros. Records, is an album that continues to showcase Larry Carlton’s mastery in blending jazz with pop and blues elements. This album is known for its smooth grooves and Carlton’s emotive guitar playing.
CD Track Listings:
- “Put It Where You Want It” – 5:37
- “Deep Into It” – 5:16
- “It’s a Groove Thang” – 5:30
- “I Still Believe” – 4:28
- “Morning Magic” – 4:52
- “A Place for Skipper” – 5:40
- “Layla” – 5:57
- “The Philosopher” – 5:08
- “If I Could I Would” – 6:28
No Substitutions: Live in Osaka with Steve Lukather
Released 2001
No Substitutions: Live in Osaka, released in 2001 by Favored Nations, is a live album featuring Larry Carlton and fellow guitarist Steve Lukather. Recorded during a concert in Osaka, Japan, this album captures the electric synergy between two guitar virtuosos.
CD Track Listings:
- “The Pump” – 11:48
- “D Blues” – 12:54
- “It Was Only Yesterday” – 9:12
- “Red House” – 12:52
- “Don’t Give It Up” – 7:30
Sapphire Blue
Released 2003
Sapphire Blue, released in 2003 by Bluebird Records, is an album that delves deeper into the blues genre, with Larry Carlton exploring various blues styles and textures. This album features Carlton’s powerful guitar work, supported by a talented band of musicians.
CD Track Listings:
- “Friday Night Shuffle” – 5:35
- “Night Sweats” – 5:20
- “Sapphire Blue” – 5:50
- “7 for You” – 5:30
- “Slightly Dirty” – 5:15
- “Just an Excuse” – 5:25
- “Take Me Down” – 6:10
- “A Pair of Kings” – 5:45
- “Farm Jazz” – 5:10
- “Bad Luck Blues” – 6:00
Live in Tokyo with Robben Ford
Released 2007
Live in Tokyo, released in 2007 by 335 Records, is a live album featuring guitarists Larry Carlton and Robben Ford. This album is a showcase of the combined talents of two of the most respected guitarists in the jazz and blues genres. Their collaboration offers a masterclass in guitar playing, blending elements of jazz, blues, and rock.
CD Track Listings:
- “That Road” – 7:15
- “Monty” – 7:05
- “Cold Gold” – 6:45
- “Hand in Hand with the Blues” – 6:30
- “Amen AC” – 6:25
- “I Put a Spell on You” – 5:50
- “Rio Samba” – 9:40
Greatest Hits Rerecorded, Volume One
Released 2007
Greatest Hits Rerecorded, Volume One, released in 2007 by 335 Records, is a unique album in Larry Carlton’s discography. This album features rerecorded versions of some of Carlton’s most iconic tracks, providing fresh interpretations of his classic hits.
CD Track Listings:
- “Room 335” – 5:40
- “Nite Crawler” – 5:20
- “Point It Up” – 5:00
- “Rio Samba” – 6:50
- “Sleepwalk” – 5:55
- “10 P.M.” – 5:15
- “Blues for TJ” – 5:00
- “Strike Twice” – 4:50
- “Red Hot Poker” – 4:25
- “Don’t Give It Up” – 6:00
Take Your Pick with Tak Matsumoto
Released 2010
Take Your Pick, a collaboration album with Japanese guitarist Tak Matsumoto, released in 2010 by 335 Records, showcases a fusion of eastern and western musical influences. The album combines Carlton’s smooth jazz style with Matsumoto’s rock-oriented approach.
CD Track Listings:
- “Jazzy Bullets” – 4:35
- “Nite Crawler 2010” – 5:20
- “The Way We Were” – 4:30
- “Island of Peace” – 5:15
- “Neon Blue” – 5:40
- “Tokyo Night” – 4:50
- “Hotalu” – 4:55
- “East West Stroll” – 4:10
- “Easy Mystery” – 5:05
- “ao” – 4:45
- “Take Your Pick” – 4:20
- “A Girl from China” – 4:15
Plays the Sound of Philadelphia
Released 2010
Plays the Sound of Philadelphia, released in 2010 by 335 Records, is an album where Larry Carlton pays tribute to the classic Philadelphia soul sound. This album features Carlton’s interpretations of famous songs from the Philadelphia soul genre, infused with his signature guitar style.
CD Track Listings:
- “Could It Be I’m Falling in Love” – 4:30
- “Love TKO” – 5:20
- “You Make Me Feel Brand New” – 5:05
- “Never Give You Up” – 4:50
- “Mama Can’t Buy You Love” – 4:35
- “Only the Strong Survive” – 5:00
- “If You Don’t Know Me by Now” – 4:55
- “Bad Luck” – 4:40
- “Back Stabbers” – 4:20
New Morning: The Paris Concert
Released 2011
New Morning: The Paris Concert, released in 2011 by 335 Records, is a live album capturing Larry Carlton’s performance at the famous New Morning club in Paris.
CD Track Listings:
- “The Prince” – 5:30
- “Sleepwalk” – 6:15
- “Room 335” – 7:00
- “Put It Where You Want It” – 5:40
- “Strikes Twice” – 5:10
- “Nite Crawler” – 5:20
- “Rio Samba” – 6:30
- “Point It Up” – 5:00
Four Hands & a Heart, Volume One
Released 2012
Four Hands & a Heart, Volume One, released in 2012 by 335 Records, features Larry Carlton revisiting some of his earlier compositions and presenting them in a new light.
CD Track Listings:
- “Room 335” – 5:40
- “Nite Crawler” – 5:20
- “Point It Up” – 5:00
- “Rio Samba” – 6:50
- “Don’t Give It Up” – 5:55
- “(It Was) Only Yesterday” – 4:30
- “Last Nite” – 5:15
- “Song for Katie” – 4:50
- “Bubble Shuffle” – 4:25
- “Strikes Twice” – 4:50
Unplugged with Robben Ford
Released 2013
Unplugged, released in 2013 by 335 Records, is a collaborative live album featuring Larry Carlton and Robben Ford. This album captures the duo in an intimate, acoustic setting, showcasing their exceptional guitar skills and musical chemistry in a more stripped-down format.
CD Track Listings:
- “N.M.W.” – 5:25
- “That Road” – 6:15
- “Monty” – 5:30
- “Cold Gold” – 4:45
- “Hand in Hand with the Blues” – 5:10
- “Amen AC” – 4:50
- “I Put a Spell on You” – 4:35
- “Rio Samba” – 6:20
Four Hands & a Heart: Christmas
Released 2014
Four Hands & a Heart: Christmas, released in 2014 by 335 Records, is a holiday-themed album by Larry Carlton. This album features Carlton’s interpretations of classic Christmas songs, reimagined with his signature guitar style and jazz-infused arrangements.
CD Track Listings:
- “White Christmas” – 3:55
- “Winter Wonderland” – 4:20
- “The Christmas Song” – 4:30
- “Silent Night” – 4:00
- “Jingle Bells” – 3:50
- “Joy to the World” – 3:30
- “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” – 4:05
- “Greensleeves (What Child Is This)” – 4:15
- “O Holy Night” – 4:25
- “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” – 3:40
At Billboard Live Tokyo with David T. Walker
Released 2015
At Billboard Live Tokyo, released in 2015 by 335 Records, is a live album featuring Larry Carlton and guitarist David T. Walker. This album captures their performance at Billboard Live Tokyo, showcasing the blend of their individual styles and their ability to deliver captivating live performances.
CD Track Listings:
- “Burnable” – 6:15
- “Nite Crawler” – 5:30
- “Rio Samba” – 7:00
- “Sunrise” – 4:45
- “Deep Into It” – 5:10
- “Room 335” – 6:20
- “Point It Up” – 5:00
At Blue Note Tokyo with Steve Lukather
Released 2016
At Blue Note Tokyo, released in 2016 by 335 Records, is a live album featuring Larry Carlton and guitarist Steve Lukather. This album is a testament to their shared passion for jazz and rock guitar playing, recorded live at the renowned Blue Note Tokyo.
CD Track Listings:
- “The Pump” – 6:00
- “Don’t Give It Up” – 5:45
- “Emotions Wound Us So” – 5:20
- “Room 335” – 7:05
- “Put It Where You Want It” – 6:30
- “All Blues” – 7:10
- “Layla” – 6:50
Lights On with the SWR Big Band
Released 2017
Lights On, released in 2017 by 335 Records, is a live album featuring Larry Carlton with the SWR Big Band. This unique collaboration combines Carlton’s guitar mastery with the rich, full sound of a big band, creating a powerful and dynamic musical experience.
CD Track Listings:
- “Milestones” – 6:10
- “Room 335” – 5:40
- “Burnable” – 6:05
- “Nite Crawler” – 5:15
- “Put It Where You Want It” – 6:20
- “Deep Into It” – 5:05
- “Kid Gloves” – 4:55
Soul Searchin’ with Paul Brown
Released 2021
Soul Searchin’, released in 2021 by Shanachie Records, is an album by Larry Carlton in collaboration with guitarist and producer Paul Brown. This album explores the soulful side of jazz, featuring a blend of smooth jazz grooves and blues influences.
CD Track Listings:
- “Soul Searchin'” – 4:35
- “Memphis Stomp” – 4:50
- “Groovin'” – 4:20
- “Fire Wire” – 4:05
- “Miles and Miles to Go” – 4:40
- “Layla” – 5:15
- “Smooth Operator” – 4:30
- “Sunrise” – 4:55
- “Just My Imagination” – 4:45
- “Kid Gloves” – 4:25
Complete List Of Larry Carlton Albums And Songs article published on Classic RockHistory.com© 2023
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