Larry Graham Facts
The Legendary Larry Graham: A Look into the Life of the Father of Slap Bass
Table of Contents
Singer’s Bio
Larry Graham, born August 14th, 1946 in Beaumont, Texas, is a legendary American singer, songwriter, and musician. Graham’s musical journey began when he started singing and playing the guitar with his family’s gospel group, The Johnson Brothers. However, it wasn’t until he moved to San Francisco in 1968 that he truly found his calling, forming the band Sly and the Family Stone.
Age
As of 2021, Larry Graham is 75 years old but still brings the energy and grooves that he has been known for throughout his career.
Relationships
Larry Graham has been married twice. His first marriage was to Tina Atkins, with whom he had one child, a son named Darric. The marriage ended in divorce. Graham’s second marriage was to a woman named Rubina, and the couple had four children together. Sadly, Rubina passed away in 2019.
Children
Graham has five children: Darric, Larry Jr., David, Brandi, and Jewell. His son, Darric, is also a professional bassist.
Height
Larry Graham stands at an impressive 6 feet 6 inches, which only adds to his commanding presence on stage.
Career
As the founding member and bassist for Sly and the Family Stone, Larry Graham helped pioneer the sound of funk music in the 1960s and 70s. Graham’s unique “slap bass” technique, which involved slapping the strings of his bass guitar with his thumb, became an iconic part of the genre.
After parting ways with Sly and the Family Stone in 1972, Graham formed his own band, Graham Central Station. The band released several successful albums throughout the 1970s, including hits like “Hair” and “The Jam.”
In addition to his work as a bandleader, Graham has also worked as a session musician, collaborating with legendary artists like Prince, Herbie Hancock, and Aretha Franklin. Graham has been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame twice, once as a member of Sly and the Family Stone and once as a solo artist.
Top Songs
Larry Graham has had several hits throughout his career, including:
– “Thank You (Falettinme Be Mice Elf Agin)” with Sly and the Family Stone
– “Dance to the Music” with Sly and the Family Stone
– “Hair” with Graham Central Station
– “The Jam” with Graham Central Station
– “One in a Million You” (solo)
Net Worth
As of 2021, Larry Graham’s net worth is estimated to be around $3 million.
Personal Life
Beyond his musical accomplishments, Larry Graham is also known for his deep spirituality. Graham is a devout Christian and has been a member of the Jehovah’s Witnesses for several decades. He has credited his faith with helping him overcome addiction and find meaning in his life.
In 2019, Graham co-wrote the book “Release Your Music Inside You: The Larry Graham Story,” in which he shares his personal journey and philosophies on music and life.
Philanthropy
In addition to his musical and spiritual pursuits, Larry Graham is also involved in philanthropic work. He is a co-founder of the charity organization We Care Solar, which provides solar-powered energy solutions to medical centers in developing countries.
Conclusion
Larry Graham’s contributions to the world of music are immeasurable, and his influence can still be felt in the funk, soul, and R&B genres today. Beyond his musical talents, Graham’s personal journey and commitment to spirituality and philanthropy are an inspiration to many. With over five decades of music under his belt, Larry Graham’s legacy is sure to endure for generations to come.
