Charlie Hunter is a guitarist, producer, and composer known for his innovative approach to the instrument. Renowned for his ability to simultaneously play bass lines, melodies, and chords, he first gained recognition for his custom eight-string guitar. He now performs on 6- and 7-string guitars built by Hybrid Guitars Co., which he co-founded in 2015.
Hunter’s genre-blending style fuses jazz, funk, blues, and rock, earning him a reputation as one of the most distinctive guitarists of his generation. Over his 35-year career, he has released numerous albums and collaborated with a diverse range of artists, from jazz legends to contemporary innovators.
A driving force in modern jazz and groove, Hunter’s work with SuperBlue, alongside Kurt Elling, has received critical acclaim. He continues to tour extensively, appearing at major international festivals and venues, while also producing and mentoring emerging talent through SideHustle Records.
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The Biamp Portland Jazz Festival, March 5-14, 2026, is a multi-venue, citywide celebration of sound and culture presented throughout Portland, Oregon. Dedicated to evolving out loud, the Festival honors America’s art form while embracing its future—bringing together legendary masters, boundary-breaking artists, and rising local talents who are redefining jazz and expanding its reach across genres and generations.
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