Rocky Gresset

Rocky Gresset, a French gypsy jazz guitarist, was born in France in 1980 and embarked on his musical journey at the tender age of nine. It was during his formative years that Rocky’s fascination with the music of Django Reinhardt and the vibrant culture of jazz Manouches took root. Drawing inspiration from the likes of Wes Montgomery, George Benson, and Pat Metheny, he developed a diverse range of influences that would shape his unique style.

Rocky’s talent and dedication caught the attention of the renowned guitarist Christian Escoudé, who became his mentor and guide. Under Escoudé’s tutelage, Rocky honed his skills, delving deeper into the intricacies of gypsy jazz and expanding his musical horizons.

In the year 2000, Rocky Gresset experienced a pivotal moment in his career when he graced the stage for his first major concert performance at the prestigious Django Reinhardt Festival. This milestone event showcased his extraordinary talent and marked the beginning of his ascent in the jazz world.

Throughout his musical journey, Rocky had the privilege of collaborating with esteemed musicians such as Lionel and Stéphane Belmondo, as well as Jean-Marc Jafet. These collaborations allowed him to further refine his artistry and expand his musical palette through dynamic and engaging performances.

In 2005, Rocky embarked on a recording venture, joining forces with Lemmy Constantine for the album “Meeting Sinatra & Django.” This project showcased his versatility by fusing the worlds of Frank Sinatra and Django Reinhardt, resulting in a captivating musical blend that demonstrated Rocky’s ability to bridge genres and captivate diverse audiences.

Following this successful endeavor, Rocky Gresset released his debut solo album in 2009 through the renowned Dreyfus label. Titled with his own name, the album featured a stellar lineup including violinist Costel Nitescu, rhythm guitarist Mathieu Chatelain, and bassist Jeremie Arranger. It was a collection that encompassed a wide range of musical expressions, incorporating jazz standards, Django Reinhardt compositions, and even reimagined pop classics. This album showcased Rocky’s virtuosity, his deep understanding of the jazz tradition, and his ability to infuse it with his own creative flair.

Rocky Gresset continues to captivate audiences with his soulful and masterful guitar playing, keeping the spirit of gypsy jazz alive while pushing its boundaries. With his dedication to the art form and his constant exploration of new musical territories, he remains a beacon of inspiration for aspiring musicians and a cherished figure within the gypsy jazz community.

In addition to his impressive musical journey, it is worth mentioning that in 2023, Rocky Gresset is sharing the stage with two esteemed musicians: Stochelo Rosenberg and Thomas Dutronc. This collaboration brings together three virtuosic artists who have each made significant contributions to the world of gypsy jazz.

Stochelo Rosenberg, known for his phenomenal guitar skills and as a member of the Rosenberg Trio, is recognized as one of the foremost contemporary gypsy jazz guitarists. His technical prowess and musical sensitivity have garnered him a dedicated following worldwide.

Thomas Dutronc, the son of legendary French singer Françoise Hardy and renowned guitarist Jacques Dutronc, has carved out a successful career as a singer-songwriter and guitarist. He seamlessly weaves together various musical influences, including gypsy jazz, to create a unique and captivating sound.

The collaboration between Rocky Gresset, Stochelo Rosenberg, and Thomas Dutronc promises to be a remarkable fusion of talent, showcasing the rich and dynamic nature of gypsy jazz. Their combined artistry is sure to captivate audiences and further contribute to the legacy of this vibrant genre.

As these three exceptional musicians come together, they not only pay homage to the tradition of gypsy jazz but also push its boundaries, bringing their own distinct voices and creative visions to the forefront. It is a collaboration that jazz enthusiasts and fans of gypsy jazz alike eagerly anticipate, eagerly awaiting the magic that unfolds when these talents join forces on stage.

Discography:

Adrien Moignard, Rocky Gresset, Richard Manetti, Noé Reinhardt and Sébastien Giniaux: Selmer #607 (2008)

Rocky Gresset (2009)

Adrien Moignard and Rocky Gresset: Entre Actes (2012)

Noé Reine, Costel Nitescu, Rocky Gresset, Rémi Oswald and Jérémie Arranger: Noé Reine (2015)

Eric Legnini: Six Strings Under (2019)