Al Smith, a Baltimore native and Morgan State University

alumnus with a degree in Music Education, is among

the nation's premier musicians, producers, and

music arrangers. Motivated by his dedication to nurturing

emerging talent, he established the Al Smith Jam Session, 

a beloved hub for music lovers and up-and-coming artists.

Boasting a rich performance history, Smith has worked with

renowned artists such as disco legend Gloria Gaynor,

Southern hip-hop group Goodie Mob, R&B group Silk, and

Will Downing among others. Smith currently collaborates

with jazz saxophonist Kim Waters, jazz pianist Kayla Waters,

as well as soul-jazz artist Ragan Whiteside. Smith has also

taken on the role of musical director for actor-singer

TC Carson, known for his portrayal of Kyle Barker on

'Living Single. Smith's artistic partnerships include work with R&B

legends such as Layla Hathaway, Maysa, Kenny Lattimore,

Chantae Moore, and Howard Hewett. In addition, Smith has

performed at various prestigious jazz festivals, including

Sea Breeze and Newport Jazz Festival. 

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While performing solo piano at the old Martini Bar in Georgia, Smith frequently found himself joined by guests who wished to sing along, turning it into a common feature of his performances. The bar's owner, impressed by the crowd's response, encouraged Smith to make this interaction a regular part of his act. Consequently, Smith began inviting other musicians to play with him, further enriching the audience's experience. This concept quickly gained popularity, and in 1998, Smith founded the Al Smith Jam Session, a platform for singers and musicians to showcase their skills. This initiative not only nurtures connections within the music community but also provides a stage complete with a house band, fostering an atmosphere ripe for musical passion and collective growth. The Al Smith Jam Session, catering to both seasoned artists and novices, has become a portal to Atlanta's vibrant and extensive music scene, providing a range of experiences for both audiences and performers.

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Expanding his talent into acting, Smith participated in Tyler Perry's 2007 movie, "Daddy's Little Girls," contributing to the writing of a musical score for a scene in the movie. He also appeared in the 2019 television drama series "American Soul," which depicts the creation of "Soul Train" by Don Cornelius, and in "Being Mary Jane," which premiered in 2013 as BET's highest-rated series debut, attracting four million viewers and starring Gabrielle Union. Additionally, Smith participated in the critically acclaimed 2023 musical drama film, "The Color Purple."​​

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