Biography

Tony grew up jamming with his Dad, Merl Saunders, and friend, Jerry Garcia. Tony received his first piano lesson from Herbie Hancock and was awarded a fellowship at the prestigious San Francisco Conservatory of Music for piano. His first bass guitar was a gift from Tom Fogerty, brother of John and rhythm guitarist for Creedence Clearwater Revival. Tony has gone on to win many awards including 2 Emmys for playing bass. The list of musicians that Tony has toured and recorded with on bass include Abba, Chaka Kahn, Elton John, Eric Clapton, Jerry Garcia/Merl Saunders, Johnny Mathis, Patti LaBelle, Ringo Starr, Sly Stone, Stevie Wonder, and Tony Bennett. In 2010, Saunders signed with indie label San Francisco Records after producing and arranging a project for the label. He launched his solo career in the smooth jazz genre with the well-received albums Romancing the Bass, Appaloosa, Uptown Jazz, and Sexy Somthin “True to the diversity of Tony Saunders’ legendary resume, the bassist/composer – while remaining in the melodic, groove-intensive pocket - His Latest CD Sexy Somethin is through the roof. Rock Steady stayed on the charts at #1 for 12 weeks. The CD remains on the charts and features Bouck Avenue with Paul Brown and Ray Chew. Nils, Marion Meadows, Jeff Lorber, Jeff Ryan, and Paul Jackson Jr. were also on this project. Tony has recently signed in May 2021 a new Deal with Baja/TSR Records. Look for a new CD out in Late Summer 2021 titled ALL ABOUT LOVE.....