Lawrence Hightower was born in Detroit, Michigan ~ home of Motown and the Funk Generation. He was first introduced to music
by good family friend Levi Stubbs of the Four Tops. Many days and hours were spent in Levi’s basement listening to Motown’s
greatest. Levi’s influence led Lawrence to begin playing piano at the ripe young age of nine. His love for music grew
as he expanded his talents to the guitar, drums and finally, the bass. Throughout high school, Lawrence won many talent shows
& contests, and was challenged by some of Detroit’s best musicians – Fred Hammond and Danny Winans, among others. Lawrence believes
it was a true blessing to be surrounded by pure talent everywhere in Detroit.
While others pursued college careers, Lawrence’s
talent and love of music took him out on the road. He first became involved with a band called the Mechanixx, which featured
music maestro Mike Banks and the very talented Mike “Clip” Payne of Parliament Funkadelic. They were fortunate enough to record
with Motown during the 1980’s. After the Mechanixx split, Lawrence moved on to work with Randy Jacobs, Larry Fratangelo, and
then later recorded with Was not Was, P-Funk, the New Motown Revue and others.
The next stage in Lawrence’s musical career took
him around the world. He began touring with a band called Harlaque, doing P.A.C.A.F., D.O.D. and U.S.O. He was fortunate
to tour throughout Hawaii, Japan, Korea, Guam, the Philippines and Australia. While touring, he also played with other groups
such as DeBarge, Klymaxx, Chaka Khan and Rebbie Jackson, to name a few.
Upon returning to the United States, Lawrence played
and toured with the Mac Band (Roses are Red). Shortly thereafter, he settled in Seattle, Washington just before the “grunge
days” and began working in the studio and playing with many local groups. Lawrence can be found playing in Seattle’s most prominent
venues 3-4 nights a week. He plays bass with many original artists as well as cover bands. His talents cover all genres
of music ~ rock, jazz, R&B, P-Funk, gospel, etc.
Lawrence’s talent has expanded over four generations and his performances
are high-energy and electrifying. His originality and stage performance are second to none and should not be missed!
Lawrence
Hightower
Endorsee - March 2009