Philadelphia Guitarist "Herb Smith"

Born and bred in Philadelphia, James "Herb" Smith has had a successful career as a guitarist since the age of 14 years old. Recognized for his talents for many years, he has toured and performed with major artists around the world. He played guitar with Patti LaBelle for 20 years and has played guitar on stage with many renowned performers including Mariah Carey, Luther Vandross, Michael McDonald, David Sanborn, and Stylistics to name a few. Television appearances have been many and live venues he has performed at include Carnegie Hall, NY, and various Broadway Theatres including The Minscoff Theater, The Gershwin Theater and The St. James Theater. He was the lead guitarist with various recording groups on the Philly Sound Scene, "back in the day." Not only a renowned guitarist, "Herb" has forged a career for himself as a songwriter, and can be found in his home studio honing his songwriting and producing talents in his time off. Herb's songwriting credits include "New Beginning" (Dexter Wansel), "Old San Juan" (M.F.S.B.), "At Peace With Women" (The Jones Girls), "Family" (Patti LaBelle), "Very Best in You" (Change), "I Can't Forget You" (Patti LaBelle), "Money, Power, Respect" (The Lox featuring L'il Kim & DMX), "Sexy Dancer" (Ideal), and "Crazy Talk" (Space Cowboy). Herb's guitar credits are included on many artists albums including Patti LaBelle, Lou Rawls, Grover Washington Jr., Dexter Wansel, and Stephanie Mills, to name a few.