< Back to Directory

Ronny Smith

Music / Sound, Performance

Contemporary jazz guitarist Ronny Smith is dedicated to promoting an appreciation for the guitar through engaging concert performances, educational programs, and workshops for musicians of all ages and skill levels. Known for his infectious sense of groove and melodic sophistication, Ronny blends contemporary jazz, soul, funk, blues, gospel, and Brazilian influences into a sound that is both accessible and artistically compelling.

Whether performing original compositions or reimagining jazz standards, Ronny creates an uplifting and memorable musical experience that resonates with audiences long after the final note. His warm tone, dynamic improvisation, and ability to craft rich musical atmospheres invite listeners into a world of rhythm, melody, and emotion—one they are eager to revisit again and again.

About the Artist

  Ronny Smith is a guitarist and composer whose warm tone, melodic sophistication, and deep sense of groove have made him a distinctive voice in contemporary jazz. Influenced by masters such as Wes Montgomery and George Benson, Smith has developed a sound that blends urban jazz, funk, soul, blues, gospel, and Brazilian influences into music that is both accessible and musically rich. A veteran ensemble musician with decades of discipline and musical depth, Smith creates sophisticated groove-driven music rooted in feel, melody, and emotional connection. His compositions balance memorable hooks with understated sophistication, allowing the music to function equally well as expressive listening experiences, immersive atmosphere, and emotionally resonant musical storytelling. Over the course of his recording career, Smith has continued to refine a style defined by groove, warmth, and artistic authenticity. His early releases, Got Groove (2006) and Just Groovin’ (2009), established him as an emerging force in smooth and urban jazz. That momentum expanded nationally with the success of “City Groove,” from his 2013 release Can’t Stop Now, which reached #1 on Billboard’s BDS New & Active Smooth Jazz chart and later climbed into the Billboard BDS Top 30. Smith has continued to build on that success with a series of nationally recognized releases and radio achievements. His single “String of Hearts” reached #2 Most Added on both the BDS Radio and SmoothJazz.com charts in 2021. In 2024, his album Struttin was recognized among SmoothJazz.com’s Top 100 Smooth Jazz Albums of the Year, while the single “Get Up” reached #1 Most Added on the Mediabase Smooth A/C chart and earned placement on the Radio Wave/Groove Jazz Top 100 Airplay Chart. Rather than conforming to rigid genre expectations, Smith has developed a distinctive artistic voice centered on groove, melodic sophistication, and emotional resonance. A serious musician creating accessible emotional environments, he approaches instrumental music as both an expressive art form and an atmospheric experience — crafting compositions that invite deep listening while naturally complementing modern lifestyle spaces, visual media, and mood-driven settings. Blending elements of contemporary jazz, soul, funk, and cinematic texture, his music connects technical artistry with warmth, atmosphere, and human connection. Today, Ronny Smith’s music continues to evolve beyond traditional genre boundaries, finding natural alignment with lifestyle media, hospitality environments, luxury branding, and modern sync opportunities. Whether performing live, composing, recording, or producing, Smith remains committed to creating music that grooves deeply, connects emotionally, and leaves a lasting atmosphere long after the final note.    

Ronny Smith website Ronka Music Group Ronny Smith website ronny Smith

Artist's Statement

My work centers on creating engaging contemporary jazz experiences that bring together artistry, education, and community connection. Through live performances, workshops, and educational programs, I seek to promote an appreciation for the guitar and the rich traditions of jazz while making the music accessible to audiences of all backgrounds and experience levels. As a performer, I blend contemporary jazz with elements of soul, funk, blues, gospel, and Brazilian music to create programs that are both entertaining and artistically meaningful. My performances feature original compositions as well as creative interpretations of jazz standards, encouraging audiences to experience the music in fresh and engaging ways. As an educator, I provide workshops and masterclasses for students, emerging musicians, and community groups, focusing on improvisation, ensemble performance, music creativity, and the role of the guitar in contemporary jazz. My goal is to inspire participants to develop their musical skills, confidence, and appreciation for the art form. Whether performing in concert halls, arts centers, schools, libraries, festivals, or community venues, I strive to create memorable musical experiences that foster connection, creativity, and a lasting appreciation for jazz and instrumental music.

Featured Work

Videos

  • Ronny Smith Concert Videos | Contemporary Jazz Guitar Performances

    See more information about Ronny Smith Concert Videos | Contemporary Jazz Guitar Performances
    Watch live performances and concert videos from Ronny Smith, contemporary jazz guitarist known for sophisticated grooves, soulful melodies, and dynamic performances.

  • Ronny Smith Jazz Medley | Live Contemporary Jazz Guitar Performance

    See more information about Ronny Smith Jazz Medley | Live Contemporary Jazz Guitar Performance
    Experience a live jazz medley from contemporary jazz guitarist Ronny Smith, featuring the sophisticated grooves, soulful melodies, and dynamic improvisation that have become hallmarks of his musical style. Blending contemporary jazz, smooth jazz, funk, blues, and soul influences, this performance showcases the versatility and artistry that have earned Smith national radio recognition and a loyal following throughout the Mid-Atlantic region. The video is titled "Ronny Smith Jazz Medley."

    Ronny Smith is a Billboard-charting guitarist, composer, and recording artist whose music combines infectious grooves, memorable melodies, and contemporary jazz sophistication.

    🎸 Website: https://ronnysmith.com

    📀 Listen & Stream:
    https://orcd.co/velvetvibe

    📧 Booking & Licensing:
    [email protected]

    Follow Ronny Smith:
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ronnysmithmusic/
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ronnysmithsjazz
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ronnysmithsjazz

    #RonnySmith #JazzGuitar #ContemporaryJazz #SmoothJazz #LiveJazz #JazzMedley #JazzGuitarist #InstrumentalJazz #MarylandJazz #LivePerformance

  • Ronny Smith Live in Concert | Smooth Jazz Guitar

    See more information about Ronny Smith Live in Concert | Smooth Jazz Guitar
    Ronny Smith delivers a captivating live performance showcasing the sophisticated grooves, melodic creativity, and soulful guitar style that have become hallmarks of his music. Blending contemporary jazz, smooth jazz, soul, funk, blues, and Brazilian influences, Smith creates an engaging musical experience that connects with audiences through memorable melodies and infectious rhythms.

    A Billboard-charting guitarist, composer, and recording artist, Ronny Smith has earned recognition for his groove-driven contemporary jazz sound and dynamic live performances throughout the Mid-Atlantic region.

    🎸 Website: https://ronnysmith.com

    🎵 Stream Ronny Smith Music:
    https://orcd.co/velvetvibe

    📧 Booking & Licensing:
    [email protected]

    Follow Ronny Smith:

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ronnysmithmusic/
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ronnysmithsjazz
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ronnysmithsjazz

    #RonnySmith #ContemporaryJazz #SmoothJazz #JazzGuitar #LiveJazz #JazzConcert #InstrumentalJazz #JazzPerformance #Guitarist #MarylandJazz

    If you tell me the song or venue featured in the vi

Music/Audio

Booking

Booking Price: $1,001-$2,000

**Booking Details and Contact Information**

**Artist:** Ronny Smith
**Company:** Ronka Music Group LLC

**Performance Formats Available**

* Solo Guitar
* Duo
* Trio
* Quartet
* Full Contemporary Jazz Ensemble

**Program Offerings**

* Concert Performances
* Jazz Festivals
* Performing Arts Centers
* Library Concert Series
* Educational Workshops
* Masterclasses
* Community Arts Programs
* Corporate and Private Events

**Service Area**
Available for performances throughout Maryland, Washington, DC, Virginia, Delaware, Pennsylvania, and beyond.

**Contact**
Ronny Smith
Email: [[email protected]](mailto:[email protected])
Alternate Email: [[email protected]](mailto:[email protected])
Website: https://ronnysmith.com

**Social Media**
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ronnysmithmusic/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ronnysmithsjazz
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ronnysmithsjazz

**Additional Information**
Ronny Smith is a Maryland-based contemporary jazz guitarist, composer, recording artist, and educator. As owner of Ronka Music Group LLC, he controls both his publishing and master recordings and is available for concerts, festivals, educational residencies, workshops, and special events.

**Materials & Technology Needed**

Performance requirements vary based on venue size and ensemble configuration.

**Provided by Presenter/Venue**

* Performance space appropriate for the ensemble size
* Professional sound reinforcement system (PA)
* Mixing console and sound engineer (when applicable)
* Minimum of two electrical outlets near the performance area
* Adequate stage lighting
* Armless chairs (if needed)
* Access to venue for setup and soundcheck

**Provided by Artist**

* Electric guitar and related equipment
* Amplifier (when required)
* Effects processors and accessories
* Performance materials

**Educational Workshops and Masterclasses**

* Classroom, rehearsal space, or meeting room
* Whiteboard or projection capability (preferred but not required)
* Sound system appropriate for audience size

**Additional Notes**
Technical requirements are scalable and can be adjusted to accommodate venues ranging from libraries, community centers, and schools to performing arts centers, concert halls, festivals, and outdoor events. A detailed stage plot and input list can be provided upon request.

**Travel Availability and Restrictions**

Ronny Smith is available for performances, workshops, masterclasses, educational residencies, and community engagement programs throughout Maryland, Washington, DC, Virginia, Delaware, Pennsylvania, and the greater Mid-Atlantic region. Additional travel throughout the United States may be arranged based on scheduling, budget, and venue requirements.

Performance formats are flexible and can be tailored to the needs of the presenter, venue, audience, and available resources.

Travel, lodging, and hospitality requirements vary depending on the distance, performance schedule, and ensemble size. Specific arrangements can be discussed and confirmed during the booking process.

Ronny Smith is committed to working collaboratively with presenters to ensure successful and accessible performances for a wide range of venues, including performing arts centers, libraries, schools, festivals, community organizations, and cultural institutions.

**Professional References**

**Appalachian Regional Commission Concert Series**
Washington, DC
Presenter reference available upon request

**The Gordon Center for Performing Arts**
Owings Mills, Maryland
Presenter reference available upon request

**An die Musik Live!**
Baltimore, Maryland
Presenter reference available upon request

**Twins Jazz**
Washington, DC
Presenter reference available upon request

**Hill Chapel Jazz Concert Series**
New Market, Maryland
Presenter reference available upon request

**Elk Run Jazz Festival**
Mount Airy, Maryland
Festival reference available upon request