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B.D. Lenz

B.D. Lenz is a NJ-based, funky/jazz guitarist, with 13 recordings as a leader

About Me

Mix the sophistication of jazz, the grit of Blues, and the grooves of funk and soul, and you have the recipe for contempo-jazz guitarist B.D. Lenz. The New Jersey native has played guitar since his early teens, is a graduate of Musicians Institute in Los Angeles, and has studied with such masters as Mike Stern, Vic Juris, and Charlie Banacos along the way.

Lenz has released 13 highly-acclaimed recordings as a leader featuring greats such as Mike Stern, Randy Brecker, Will Lee, Joel Rosenblatt, & Mark Egan and his music has been featured in hundreds of TV shows globally including “Breaking Bad” (AMC), “Catfish” (MTV), and Anthony Bourdain's No Reservations” (Travel Channel) to name a few. This Godin-endorsed guitarist has performed thousands of shows internationally, is a columnist for AllAboutJazz.com and is a staff composer for Gramoscope Music which makes custom music for many television shows.

“...Part of the reason for his accessibility is that he not only fuses jazz and rock, he complements it with warm chords of funk, soul, and rhythm and blues...” – New York Times

“Bottom Line: Lenz is a real embodiment of a guitar hero...But just like jaguars are born to run, Lenz is born to play...leaving the listener breathless in their musical journey with him. He is a big sound, a big talent...powerfully impressive taken all in all.” – Jazz Inside Magazine

“Lenz transitions from fleet and nimble to heavy and funky, maintaining interest throughout with an interesting sonic palette.” – Jazziz Magazine

“While doing a live album, with such a diverse repertoire, poses risk, Lenz rises to the occasion, releasing an entertaining and engaging album that is sure to be included on this year’s 'Best of' lists for jazz guitar.” – Guitar International

“...Lenz's music portrays his deep attachment to groove and rhythm as well as an uncanny ability to craft interesting and memorable melodies...” – AllAboutJazz.com

“...he has released six CDs, he has logged untold hours onstage and his music has been licensed for use in more than 100 TV shows. Even so, Lenz says his latest release, Hit It and Quit It, represents a big step for him...” – BMI.com

“Contemporary jazz guitarist B.D. Lenz’s quartet lays down a funky, jamming vibe...integrating catchy good time grooves with moodier, blues-inflicted pieces” – JazzTimes

“…[Straight Up] is so there, so ideal, so darn near perfect that it makes a listener want to head straight up there in a pilgrimage to quality...” – JazzImprov Magazine

...a solid guitarist and composer...[”Straight Up”] features a distinctive contemporary style... – Newark Star-Ledger

“Lenz has mastered his instrument and his confidence overflows everywhere...” – All About Jazz

My Jazz Story

I love jazz because... I was first exposed to jazz... I met [musician name]... The best show I ever attended was... The first jazz record I bought was... My advice to new listeners... Or whatever else you have in mind.