Stanley Jordan

Frequently Asked Questions

What happened to guitarist Stanley Jordan?

Stanley Jordan, the acclaimed American jazz guitarist, continues to be an influential figure in the music world. Known for his innovative two-handed tapping technique, Jordan rose to fame in the 1980s with his breakthrough album "Magic Touch." Over the years, he has remained active, performing at jazz festivals, collaborating with renowned artists, and releasing new music. Instead of fading from the spotlight, Jordan has evolved as both a performer and educator, conducting masterclasses and workshops worldwide. His passion for music and education has kept him relevant within jazz and guitar communities. Fans can still catch Stanley Jordan live at concerts and events, where he showcases his unique style and technical prowess. Whether touring internationally or recording new projects, Stanley Jordan remains a vibrant part of the jazz scene, continually inspiring guitarists and music lovers alike.

Who is the guitarist in the movie Blind Date?

The guitarist featured in the movie "Blind Date" is none other than Stanley Jordan himself. Released in 1987, "Blind Date" is a romantic comedy starring Bruce Willis and Kim Basinger. Stanley Jordan makes a notable cameo in the film, performing his signature guitar style in a club scene. His appearance is memorable not only for his musical talent but also for introducing his innovative two-handed tapping technique to a broader audience. The scene highlights Jordan's extraordinary skill, seamlessly blending jazz improvisation with the film's lighthearted atmosphere. This cameo further cemented Stanley Jordan's reputation as a groundbreaking guitarist and brought his unique sound to moviegoers who may not have been familiar with his work in the jazz world.

What kind of guitar did Stanley Jordan play?

Stanley Jordan is renowned for playing the electric guitar, most notably the Fender Stratocaster. Throughout his career, he has favored the Stratocaster for its versatility and tonal clarity, which complement his innovative tapping technique. Jordan's approach to the guitar is unique, as he often plays with both hands on the fretboard, akin to piano playing. This requires a guitar with exceptional playability and response, which the Stratocaster provides. Additionally, Jordan has been seen using guitars custom-modified to suit his playing style, sometimes opting for flatwound strings and a clean, direct signal path to capture every nuance of his touch. His choice of guitar is critical to his ability to produce the fluid, multi-layered sounds that define his performances, making the Fender Stratocaster an integral part of his musical identity.

How does Stanley Jordan tune his guitar?

Stanley Jordan tunes his guitar in standard tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E), but what truly sets him apart is his approach to playing rather than the tuning itself. Utilizing a pioneering two-handed tapping technique, Jordan treats the fretboard much like a piano, allowing him to play melody, harmony, and bass lines simultaneously. While he occasionally experiments with alternate tunings for specific pieces or effects, his default setup remains standard tuning. This allows him to fully exploit the familiar layout of the guitar while maximizing the harmonic possibilities of his technique. Jordan's approach to tuning and setup is designed to support his expressive and dynamic performances, enabling him to achieve the rich, layered textures that have become his signature in the world of jazz guitar.

What happened to Stanley Jordan?

Stanley Jordan remains an active and celebrated presence in the jazz and broader music communities. After achieving international fame in the 1980s with his album "Magic Touch," Jordan continued to innovate, releasing several acclaimed albums and collaborating with leading artists across genres. He's known for his virtuosic two-handed tapping technique, which revolutionized jazz guitar playing. In recent years, Jordan has focused on live performances, educational endeavors, and new recordings, maintaining a busy schedule that takes him to venues and festivals around the world. Far from disappearing, Stanley Jordan has expanded his influence, inspiring a new generation of musicians and continually pushing the boundaries of what is possible on the guitar. His enduring legacy is marked by both artistic excellence and a commitment to music education.