Bobby G by Gail Jhonson

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Bobby G

“He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.” (Psalms 91:1)

Bobby Griffin Jr. a/k/a Bobby G | Professional Guitarist and Music Educator

Bobby G specializes in gospel, R&B, and jazz. He is a guitarist for various music ensembles and churches in the Fresno area. He is a guitar instructor, as well.

Bobby hails from Fresno, California in 1959, to Ruthie and Bobby Griffin. In fifth grade, his father gave him a guitar, which learned to play under the tutelage of Larry Hudspeth. He developed his craft and learned to play gospel music. His love of music grew and, in 1980, he studied under gospel guitar legend Chalmers “Spanky” Alford, an experience he regards as his “most prized possession.”

In 1981, Bobby moved to Los Angeles, initiating his career onstage with R&B legends Stevie Wonder, Al Green, Gladys Knight, and Dionne Warwick, and gospel icons Kirk Franklin, Andraé and Sandra Crouch, Kurt Carr, and the L.A. Mass Choir. He served under Howard McCray, Patrick Henderson, and Judith McAllister, and did gospel projects for Keith Pringle, Norman Hutchens, and James Cleveland.

Bobby performed across Europe with the Harlem Gospel Singers and ventured to Dubai with the R&B group We Have Evolved Together. He accompanied Fred Hammond, Marvin Sapp, Byron Cage, Bishop Paul Morton, Tye Tribbett, Martha Munizzi, and Tramaine Hawkins.

In 2001, he studied music at Fresno City College. Bobby is a dedicated music educator. He teaches inperson and virtually for international students.

Bobby was the Minister of Music for churches and bands in Fresno. He was a performing artist at Kevin Wilson’s International Musicians Summit. Bobby performs, regularly, and steadily develops new instructional material. In addition to hosting his own popular YouTube channel, he published instructional guitar courses on Soundslice.com.

As a recording artist, Bobby G has enjoyed success on the radio with his single Dearing Avenue (2019). His follow-up offering, Samba Heights elevates his fans with savvy guitar samba nuances. Produced by Gail Jhonson, of the Jazz in Pink and Grammy-winning guitarist, Norman Brown fame. This single is sure to be well received because Gail brought her piano chops, producer skills, and smooth jazz celebrity from Shanachie Entertainment. Bassist Sekou Bunch, and drummer Tony Moore round out the ensemble. Mixed in London by Mike Parlett, this recording delivers a jam packed and energetic groove. Samba Heights released in February 2021.

Gail Jhonson connected with guitarist Bobby G, in Fresno CA, for this interview.

How did you come to music as a child? Did you study music theory? I grew up listening to various styles like gospel, jazz, blues, and soul music. My dad bought me my first guitar and I had taken two lessons on it. Well, the following week, someone broke into our home and stole my guitar while I was at school. My friend bought it on the streets for $5. He didn’t know it was mine. I had gotten a tip from a friend that this guy was joining our high school band with my guitar! When I confronted him, he sold it back to me $5!

So, my musical journey began playing gospel and R&B. Then, I attended Fresno City College for theory, guitar, and piano. I played in several Jazz combos and Jazz ensembles.

Do you compose music? If so, how many songs have you composed? Yes, I compose music. My first single, This Christmas was recorded in 2010. My second single Dearing Ave was recorded in 2019. Samba Heights will be my 3rd single. And there are many more in the hopper!

Do you have a publishing company with ASCAP or BMI? My publishing company is BG Entertainment and my performance rights organization is BMI.

Have you worked with women musicians? Are you aware of the challenges women face in the male-dominated music industry? Yes, I have worked with women in the industry. I was under the directorship of Dr. Judith McAllister at West Angeles Church of God in Christ for 17 years, where I served as the lead guitarist.