Smooth jazz is a genre of music that grew out of
jazz and is influenced by
rhythm and blues,
funk,
rock and roll, and
pop music styles (separately, or, in any combination). Musicians such as
Kenny G.,
Ramsey Lewis,
David Koz, and
Spyro Gyra have had hits with instrumental recordings, while singers such as
Anita Baker,
Sade,
Sting and
Norah Jones have found success with vocal releases.
George Benson remains a popular Smooth Jazz artist as both a singer and guitar player.