Luther DeJarunett

Profile Information:

Pittsburgh Connection
Pittsburgh musician! Born, and raised in Pittsburgh!!!
Favorite Pittsburgh musicians/performers
Roger Humphries,Dwayne Dolphin, Keith Stebler,Mark Strickland,Flora Wilson,Michele Bensen,Nelson Harrison,Chuck Austin,Chris Hemingway,Lou Stellute,Fletcher Tomlin,Leonard Johnson,Donna Davis,Horace Turner,Max Leake,Tom Wendt,Kenny Blake,Al Dowe,Harold Betters, and too many more to name here!
Favorite Pittsburgh Jazz Venue
Manchester Craftsman's Guild
About Me:
I started playing piano at the age of seven. This gave me my first actual musical experience with an instrument. It didn't work out, however, due to the fact that we did not have a piano, and the lessons after a while became too difficult. At the age of 12, I started playing brass instruments in school. I played trumpet, french horn, trrombone, baritone horn, and tuba. It was the tuba that brought everything together for me, and then made playing the other instruments possible! Around this same time I had gotten interested in song writing. This interest resulted in me getting a guitar after being infuenced by Tommy DeVito of The Four Seasons. My music teacher, Joe Kennedy, loaned me an album by a guitarist who I had never heard of, named Wes Montgomery! That album was called Going Out Of My Head, and it changed the direction of my whole life!!! In high school I totally abandoned my academic aspirations, and made up my mind to pursue a career in music. I've been involved in music almost exclusively from then to now. I did take time out to get a diploma in Applied Business Programming, in the computer field in 1979. My pursuit of music has taken me to venues, andrecording studios all over the world. I've had the chance to meet, and work with many interesting, and talented people. Many of these include my idols. Richard "Groove" Holmes, George Benson, Dionne Warwick, Dakota Staton, Joe Williams, Aretha Franklin, Jimmy McGriff, Don Patterson are just a few. Currently I'm freelancing, and doing music production.
Website:
http://www.myspace.com/countdownproductions

Comment Wall:

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  • Kennard Roosevelt Williams

    Happy New Year Bro,

    I really enjoy listening to you...this is great!

    Jan 3, 2009

  • Ahveekhy

    Loved hearing you play...I got some of the sounds uploaded from last nights jam session. Come by my page and check it out. Peace Ahveekhy

    Jan 4, 2009

  • Dr. Nelson Harrison

    Luther,

    You are allowed to have 100 active friend requests. When people do not respond to your friend request, they tie up a spot for a new peron you might invite. You can withdraw your friend request from anyone who hasn't responded and that will free up a space for a new invite.

    Jan 9, 2009

  • Linda Jones

    Luther! Saw your porch light on..just stopped by to say hello! :)

    Jan 18, 2009

  • Marva Josie

    Hi Luther - So nice to hear from you and you also have a healthy and prospeous 2009. How about you writing us a hit and lets put it to a CD. Marva

    Jan 19, 2009

  • Jagsu

    Hey Luther, Where you playing these days? -- Kenan

    Jan 26, 2009

  • Louise

    Thanks!

    Feb 14, 2009

  • Kevin Hurst, Sr.

    Hey Luther I am still jammin' to your tracks! I love jazz guitar and always have. Aw tell me A Bedtime Story by Herbie! Man there is some good music on this site! It will be an honor to hear you live, I am looking forward to it after I get to know my granddaughter. - Lord bless Pittsburgh and the whole arts communities, especially jazz. - khsr

    Feb 17, 2009

  • tim max

    HELLO BROTHER !!!!!!!!,GOOD MUSIC

    Feb 23, 2009

  • selena brookins

    sounds great. thankyou for a good morning after a bad nite at work. look for pics soon. never used a computor before so it might be awhile. but for sure ill see you out before i learn this d computor. help. and goodnight.

    Feb 23, 2009

  • tim max

    hello LUTHER ,THANKS TO YOUR OPINION, ONE DAY I WOULD LIKE TO PLAY WITH YOU ,I LOVE JAZZ ,FUNK, BOSSA NOVA ,SMOTH JAZZ ,AND MY SAMBA ,A HUGS FOR YOU AND YOUR FAMILY

    Feb 24, 2009

  • Janie Gust

    Hello Luther!

    Thank you for the friend request and it is a pleasure to meet you here on the Pittsburgh Jazz Network. You have a wonderful page which reflects the beauty and depth of your career...I am enjoying the great sounds and photos. I will most definitely return. All the best to you.

    Janie

    Feb 25, 2009

  • Michele Bensen

    Hey Luther,
    I finally sat down and really listened to all your music on your page tonight. Awesome man! I wanna be just like you when I grow up. You play with such feeling and have great fresh ideas. You, Keith and Steve sound great. It's time for a CD. My next Cd is going to be called , FUMAR@Your own Risk! M

    Feb 27, 2009

  • Mona

    Hello Luther,
    Sounds great!

    Mar 29, 2009

  • croon4u

    Thank you for adding me! The i/net has changed everything. I love your pics and hope I can share them with students one day soon and inspire them to play when they see (and hear!) 'the real thing' ;D

    Apr 14, 2009

  • Randy Williams DOSE

    whats up my bro i havent heard from you in a while, i really miss playing with you an Keith what you two been doing . im loving your page .you been hideing all them tunes from me . you gotta let me play on a few.add me to your list and lets get back together soon

    Apr 24, 2009

  • Randy Williams DOSE

    hey bro when can we get together i started my cd and i need you to give one of one of them jewals only you can do my number is still the same hope to hear fromyou soon

    May 2, 2009

  • Melodic Revolution

    Hello Luther
    Wonderful music and bio together they tell a wonderful story.
    peace love and revolution
    nick

    May 2, 2009

  • Jaki Young

    I am working with a newly formed band, Dynasty and of course at the Jazz Workshop every Saturday. Working full time, and working on PhD. in Counseling Studies. Also studying for LCSW exam. Social Work licensing.

    May 2, 2009

  • Jaki Young

    I will do that. . .

    May 4, 2009

  • JOHN PAPI

    Great music, nice , Keep it up john papi

    May 27, 2009

  • Richard Williams

    Hey Luther, hit me up because i would like to get together with u on tuesday's or thursday's and work out some technical guitar stuff!
    Richard Williams

    Sep 13, 2009

  • Barbara Ray

    It is a pleasure to become your friend .. thank you.

    Oct 8, 2009

  • Barbara Ray

    Dear Luther:

    You were my very first friend along with Dr. Harrison.
    I thank you very much for making me feel welcomed.

    I'm hoping and looking forward to singing some tunes to that sweet music you make.

    Sincerely yours,

    Barb Ray ("Ms.B")

    Oct 9, 2009

  • Shawnee Lake

    Luther, where are you and your group playing? I finally got a gig at Little E's on Friday, Nov. 20. Stop by and bring your axe, if you want. Take care. Shawnee

    Oct 24, 2009

  • Marva Josie

    Luther -
    Thank you and time does pass by so quickly. Hope we can talk soon. Marva

    Dec 2, 2009

  • Kennard Roosevelt Williams

    Thanks Luther, I hope you have a great year too. I enjoy listening to your playing.

    Jan 4, 2010

  • Gerald Woods

    Whats up ? We go back to the lessons when you lived in Sandusky Court.
    Its me Gerald

    Oct 25, 2010

  • Floreece Davis

    I just received word from Chris sullivan that  the music world has once again lost  a most wonderful musician...Luther DeJarunett...my heart is just so sadened.Oh...what a wonderful Guitarist...I had the pleasure to work many, many engagements with Luther over a 20 year period. I will cherish all the photographs I have from many Gigs we shared. I truly will sorely miss Luther and his outstanding musicianship. Oh my gosh....what a lost....Floreece Davis (AKA Gail Sonders)

    Mar 11, 2011

  • Dr. Nelson Harrison

    I first met Luther when he was 14 years old and playing tuba in middle school.  his teacher Joe Kennedy, III invited me and several others to give a clinic at his school. Little did I know that he would grow up to join the formidable jazz guitar lexicon and travel the world.  Luther was always a joy to be around and that joy found its expression through his music.  We will keep his memory alive on this network and invite you to post photos and share your memories on his page so others may experience him in ways they may not have before.  We will miss his smile and presence and his great music. He left an indelible impression on the jazz and guitar world like many of his heroes did before him. Farewell my brother. May you rest in peace.

    Mar 11, 2011

  • Cecilio Valdez Washington

    I am deeply saddened by Luther's passing.  When we last talked a month or so ago, we had planned on meeting up this Summer at the annual music event in the park on the Northside (near snowcone stand).  I enjoyed the many years (long ago) we performed together.  A talented friend whom I will truly miss.

    Mar 11, 2011

  • J. Malls

    I met Luther at the Hill House in 2008. We kept in touch for a little bit, but sadly never had a chance to get to know each other very well. I just found an email that he'd sent me with two mp3's recorded by his group New Identity in 1970. The songs are "What Do You Want To Do With My Love" feat. Brian "Skippy" Reed and "Your Love" feat. Eddie Lee. Luther and I never got around to doing an interview and discussing the group and the recordings. If anyone has any info about New Identity that they want to share with me that would be greatly appreciated.

    Thanks in advance,
    J. Malls
    afs.fresh@gmail.com

    Mar 11, 2011

  • Kevin Amos

    I am very sadded to learn of Luther's passing. I had received a note from Floreece and then called Nelson. For the past two years Luther was a member of our house band for the Jazz Fan Appreciation events at Malika's, Little E's and the Thunderbird Cafe along with Vince Taglieri and Annie Friedland. A world class guitarist in the long line of Pittsburgh greats.

    We would talk often about our health issues since we are both diabetic and gave each other encouragement. Please folks...take care of yourself.

    I intend to dedicate the next event on March 19 at the Thunderbird Cafe to my friend and brother. Come out to the session and celebrate his life.

     

    Rest in peace Luther.

    Mar 11, 2011

  • Ken Lamison

    Luther was one of the first to reach out to me here. I regret that we never got an opportunity to play together. Peace to you, Luther.

    Ken 

    Mar 11, 2011

  • Bill Lawson

    Rest in Peace Luther.

    Mar 11, 2011

  • Dr. Martin E. Rosenberg

    Thank you Luther, for the kind advice and fellowship over the short two years that I have known you.  You were a fine musican, guitarist, and a generous and gentle human being.  Please rest in peace........mer

    Mar 11, 2011

  • Vince Taglieri

    Luther what a great time I've had playing and talking with you the last few years. I know those times can never be replaced! God Bless You Luther.

    Mar 11, 2011

  • Annie Cosmides

    I can't even express the wonderful feeling I get just to hear Luther's name much less his music.  I thank him for the countless times he gave me peace of mind through his smooth guitar.  What a kind, gentle man who was so loving to so many.  I only wish I had many, many more people in my life as considerate and compassionate as Luther.  What a huge loss this is in many ways.  I am deeply saddened but will always have fond memories of Luther and the thought of him will always put a smile on my face. Rest in peace Luther.

    Mar 11, 2011

  • Kennard Roosevelt Williams

    I am deeply saddened...I'll miss you Lu

    Mar 11, 2011

  • Rev. Dr. Bobby Fulton, Ph.D.

    For Black Circle Records, Ray Mitchell's AppleRay Records and myself, thanks for your musical contributions, to Music of Pittsburgh's Supertown, for your friendship and the times we shared talking of the Lord, the music and mutual friends.  You will be missed. God be with you on your journey.  Bobby Fulton

    Mar 11, 2011

  • Linda Jones

    Rest in peace my dear friend. I will miss your gentle spirit and your music.

    Mar 11, 2011

  • Jeff Lashway

    I can't believe this. I saw Luther just a few months ago. What a sweet soul, as well as a great player. He will be missed.

    Mar 11, 2011

  • Kevin Hurst, Sr.

    Luther always was encouraging and great to talk to about music. He will greatly missed- kevin hurst

    Mar 12, 2011

  • Dr. Nelson Harrison

    Mar 12, 2011

  • Flo Taylor

    I miss you so much...

    Mar 12, 2011

  • Dr. Nelson Harrison

    Here are the details for Luther, please post them on your website:
     
    Memorial Service on Saturday March 19, 2011  11am
    Bidwell Presbyterian Church
    1025 Liverpool Street
    Pittsburgh PA  15233
     
    Per Family's request no flowers please.

    Mar 15, 2011

  • Ronald L Wingfield

    Luther, Sence we meet some fourty years ago. I have always enjoyed and admired the things that you have contributed to the music community, especially to the Guitar community that i am proud to be a part of, thanks to you.You are an icon in the guitar industry, and thanks to you, I wear the guitar as a badge of honor.you have brought pride, professionalism,honor, and fun to the guitar profession, in short. " TOU MAKE ME PROUD TO BE CALLED A GUITAR PLAYER" Peace to Ronny Wingfield

    Mar 15, 2011

  • Eric Watson

    Luther, Thanks for all of the times that you welcomed me to come and play wherever you were, when I would come home to visit.. made me feel like I'd never moved away... I'll miss you Bro, and especially when I come to Pittsburgh.  Even though I'll miss you, I know that you'll always be with me..

    RIP,

    Eric

    Mar 16, 2011

  • Dr. Nelson Harrison

    MEMORIAL SERVICES PROGRAM

    Bidwell Presbyterian Church

    1025 Liverpool Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15233

    March 19, 2011

    ==============================================================

     

    DVD Slide Show        10:30am – 11am

     

    Opening Prayer:         Rev. Andrew Cooper

     

    The Occasion             Minister Leonard W. Johnson III

     

    Musical Selection      This Day – Ms. Flora Wilson

     

    Acknowledgement of Cards/Reading of Obituary – Ms. Lynne Swan-Shepherd

     

    Musical Selection      _______________ Ms. Agnes Reid

     

    Personal Tributes:

                Mr. Tim Stevens

                Mr. Mark Strickland

                Mr. Stanley Lowe

     

    Old Testament and New Testament Scriptures – Rev. Andrew Cooper

     

    Musical Selection      How Great Thou Art – Ms. Michele Bensen

     

    Eulogy – Rev. Andrew Cooper

     

     

    Benediction

     

     

    Repast following service in Church Hall

    Mar 16, 2011

  • Dr. Nelson Harrison

    Mar 19, 2011