The Man Behind “Special EFX”

Some of his first musical gigs were on cruise ships, where he built up his guitar chops. No, he wasn’t 18 or even 15, but rather 13 when he already realized that his calling was music. This musician’s work has been heard at the Olympics, he’s contributed to music for several movie productions, the popular soap opera “The Guiding Light”, several well-known programs such as Good Morning America, Access Hollywood, The 700 Club, and Nickelodeon’s live stage productions of the hit TV series, Dora the Explorer. He’s played with Lionel Richie, Jessica Simpson, Jewel, Jennifer Lopez, Bobby Caldwell, Kim Waters, Alex Bugnon and a two year gig with Earth Kitt. -This is all in addition to his 17 CD’s by his band “Special EFX” and 6 under his own name and yes, I’m going to finally tell you who it is — his name is Chieli Minucci.
Chieli Minucci is an accomplished musician. His father Ulpio Minucci has been known as both a composer and concert pianist, famous in his own right for having written “Domani”. Besides having talent within his own home, Chieli’s guitar instruction came from one of the most talented studio musician’s in New York, Jack Hotop. Jack was able to show Chieli, while yet a young player, how to get around quickly and efficiently on the guitar while still having a small hand. Those lessons have really paid off, because Chieli has amazing speed and much more importantly he has dynamics, that is lacking in so many of the jazz guitarists; Chieli possesses his own voice, that can easily be recognized, even if he was playing with a half a dozen other players.
In celebration of 25 years of touring, Special EFX, which Chieli and the late percussionist George Jinda put together, is commemorating this year with a special double album entitled “Without You”. Jazzipedia will keep you informed of its release.
To learn more about solo albums of Chieli and collaboration with Special EFX, please view http://chielimusic.com

Tags: guitarist with dynamics