John McLaughlin

Bio

John McLaughlin is an English guitarist, composer, and bandleader born in Doncaster, England, in 1942. He is widely recognized for his pioneering work in jazz fusion, blending elements of rock, Indian classical music, and flamenco into his distinctive style. McLaughlin first gained prominence in the late 1960s as a session musician in London before moving to the United States, where he collaborated with Miles Davis on landmark albums such as In a Silent Way and Bitches Brew. He later formed the Mahavishnu Orchestra, whose explosive performances and complex compositions helped define the jazz-rock genre. Throughout his career, McLaughlin has explored acoustic and world-music projects, including the group Shakti, which fused jazz with South Indian classical traditions. His technical mastery and innovative approach have made him one of the most influential guitarists in modern music.