Bob James & Earl Klugh
One On One
Rare & Collectible Vinyl Records

1979 Gatefold Original. Released in 1979, "One On One" stands as a significant collaboration between two celebrated jazz musicians: pianist Bob James and guitarist Earl Klugh. At the time, both artists were already established figures in the jazz and fusion scenes. Bob James had become known for his distinctive blend of jazz, funk, and orchestral arrangements, while Earl Klugh was acclaimed for his melodic, lyrical acoustic guitar style. The album emerged as a seamless fusion of their individual talents, showcasing a relaxed, melodic interplay that was accessible yet sophisticated, and it tapped into the burgeoning 'smooth jazz' movement of the late 1970s.

Critically and commercially successful, "One On One" won the Grammy Award for Best Pop Instrumental Performance in 1981, underlining its broad appeal beyond traditional jazz audiences. The album features six tracks, each highlighting the duo's nuanced musicianship and the subtle chemistry between piano and guitar. "One On One" is often cited as a touchstone for the smooth jazz genre, influencing subsequent collaborations in contemporary jazz. Its enduring reputation rests on the way it balances technical proficiency with warmth and melodic charm, marking it as a pivotal release in both artists’ discographies and in the evolution of crossover jazz.