Richard Jackson was born and raised in Cincinnati, Ohio. His father, George Colbert Jackson, was a well-known Gospel singer and Richard grew up surrounded by his father's friends and legendary Gospel acts such as The Fairfield Four and The Dixie Hummingbirds.
 
Richard first began to sing when he was dared to enter his High School talent show, and he never looked back.

Blessed with his father's talent and invaluable guidance, Richard entered Central State University in Ohio as a Voice major where he received classical voice training under the direction of William Henry Coldwell. Professors were amazed at his unspoken ability, his humble nature and his work ethic.

But it wasn't classical music that spoke to him - he found himself mesmerised by Jazz, and soon developed a great love for the genre.
 
Richard began singing locally around the Cincinnati area, quickly developing a name for himself and garnering comparisons to legends Luther Vandross, Marvin Gaye, Barry White and Ronald Isley.

Richard has worked in the company of Chris Jasper Isley, Midnight Star, and has performed as the opening act for Bob James, Peabo Bryson, The Stylistics, Tuck and Patti, Regina Belle, De La Soul, George Clinton and Will Downing.

His performance here is part of Alexis Bistro's International Jazz Series.