Saxophone Instructor

Eddie M. is a world-class saxophonist, vocalist, and multi-instrumentalist whose remarkable career spans decades, solidifying his place as one of the most sought-after talents in the music industry. With a soulful sound, electrifying stage presence, and an unparalleled ability to connect with audiences, Eddie M. has graced stages and recording studios alongside music legends like Prince, Stevie Nicks, Aretha Franklin, Sheila E., and countless others.

 

A proud graduate of Berkeley High School and UC Berkeley’s esteemed music program, Eddie M.’s musical journey began in the vibrant and eclectic Bay Area scene of the early 1980s. It didn’t take long for his extraordinary talent and versatility to catapult him into the spotlight. From the very beginning, he has effortlessly crossed genres—seamlessly blending funk, R&B, smooth jazz, and pop—earning him the opportunity to collaborate with an impressive array of artists across the musical spectrum.

 

Eddie M.’s extensive list of collaborations reads like a who’s who of the music world, including icons such as Stevie Wonder, Beyoncé, Eric Benét, Teena Marie, Wayman Tisdale, Paula Abdul, Acoustic Alchemy, and Jesse Johnson. Each collaboration showcases not only Eddie M.’s virtuosity but also his deep understanding of the diverse styles and sounds that define popular music. His ability to infuse every note with emotion and every performance with energy has earned him a reputation as a true musical chameleon—always evolving, yet always unmistakably himself.

 

In addition to his solo accomplishments, Eddie M. is the co-founder of Back to Basics (B2B), a dynamic and innovative duo formed with renowned drummer John Paris. Together, they create music that is a perfect fusion of sophistication and soul, offering a fresh yet timeless sound that resonates with audiences worldwide.

 

Whether he's captivating crowds on the biggest global stages or displaying his improvisational brilliance in intimate settings, Eddie M.’s passion for music is undeniable. His performances are not just shows—they are an experience, each one filled with raw emotion, technical brilliance, and a deep connection to the heart of the music. From his legendary collaborations to his growing legacy as a solo artist, Eddie M. continues to prove that great music is not only timeless and universal but has the power to transcend boundaries, leaving an indelible mark on everyone who hears it.

 

TOURS AND PERFORMANCES:

• 1983-1984: Sheila E. – Glamorous Life Tour (USA, England, Netherlands, Germany, Italy, France, Chile)

• 1984: Prince and Sheila E. – Purple Rain Tour (USA)

• 1986: Jesse Johnson – Love Struck Tour (USA, France, Italy)

• 1987-1988: Karyn White – (USA, Canada, Bahamas, Bermuda, Taiwan, Japan, Singapore, England)

• 1990-1991: Stevie Nicks – Whole Lot of Trouble Tour (USA)

• 1992: Sheila E. Tour – Musical Director (Japan)

• 1998-2001: Eric Benét (Europe, USA)

• 1998-2002, 2004: Sheila E. (Japan, USA)

• 2002: Beyoncé Knowles (USA)

• 2002: Sheryl Crow, Stevie Wonder – Lil Angel Bunny Foundation Gala

• 2002-2006: Acoustic Alchemy (USA)
   

AWARD SHOWS AND TELEVISION APPEARANCES:

• 1985: The Grammy Awards with Prince

• 1985-1993: The Arsenio Hall Show and Rick Dee’s Up All Night with various artists

• 1998: Magic Hour House Band: Late Night Talk Show

• 1999: Sheila E. – Motown Live

• 1998-2000: Eric Benét – Soul Train, BET Live, Motown Live, Showtime at the Apollo

• 2002: Beyoncé Knowles – Jay Leno Tonight Show, 106 & Park (BET)

• 2004: Prince – Essence Festival – New Orleans

• 2005: Prince – NAACP Image Award Show
   

RECORDED MATERIAL:

• Solo Albums: “Eddie M. Ward Street” (JVC/JMI), “Eddie M” (Gold Circle Records)

• Collaborations: Worked on albums with Prince, Sheila E., Wayman Tisdale, and more

• Notable tracks include: “Temptation,” “The Ladder” (Prince), “Lady Marmalade,” “Promise Me Love” (Sheila E.)
   

WRITTEN MATERIAL:

• Compositions for Sheila E. (“Hold Me,” “Promise Me Love”), Confunkshun (“Feel The Groove”)

• Contributions to albums by various artists including Shalimar and Paula Abdul