RiShon Odel
Bassist • Composer • Visionary

RiShon Odel is widely regarded as one of the most creative musical forces of his generation. A multi-instrumentalist, composer, educator, and producer, Odel has made his mark across genres—from smooth jazz and gospel to classical composition and cinematic scoring.

Odel’s work has topped the charts, earning him the titles of #1 Most Added on SmoothJazz.com and #1 on the Billboard Smooth Jazz Charts for his writing and production contributions to “XX” by Brian Culbertson and “You, Me & Forever” by Grammy-nominated saxophonist Najee. A proud member of 148-462 Local, and the International Society of Bassists, Odel also endorses DR Strings, Red Sound, Roland, BOSS, and Wayne Jones Audio.

Bursting onto the scene in 2006 with a riveting arco bass performance at the JoAnn Faletta International Guitar Competition, Odel has since carved out a distinctive musical identity. His orchestral and chamber works have been performed by ensembles such as the Eastman String Quartet, Buffalo State College Symphonic Band, and The Ieda String Ensemble. He also scored the film Less Than Perfect, produced by theater and film legend Reuben Santiago-Hudson.

As a performer and recording artist, Odel has worked with an impressive and eclectic range of talent, including Cissy Houston, Marvin Winans, Phil Perry, Donnie McClurkin, Chanté Moore, Stevie J, Deneice Williams, and Najee. He is also a longtime collaborator with Canadian pop artist Julius Wilson and a founding member of the genre-bending jazz trio Walter Kemp 3OH!

Odel’s passion for education is as strong as his performance résumé. He is the author of Book of Bass Vol. 1 (Dorrance Publishing), and has led music clinics across the U.S., Canada, and beyond. His teaching legacy includes students who have gone on to study at prestigious institutions like Howard University, Berklee College of Music, Buffalo State, and Michigan State.

From his roots in Western New York to stages across the globe, RiShon Odel brings depth, vision, and soul to every project he touches.

Selected Collaborations (Partial List):

Brian Culbertson • Najee • Cissy Houston • Marvin Winans • Donnie McClurkin • The Clark Sisters • Walter Kemp 3OH! • Deneice Williams • Nick Colionne • Tom Browne • Adrian Crutchfield • Oleta Adams • Bobby Militello • Scott Tixier • Jimmy Gomes • Douglas Ewart • Jhené Aiko • Stevie J Jordan • Karen Clark-Sheard • Dodo Green • Riley Richard • Harlem Boys Choir