Shaping the Soundtrack of Generations
Paul Riser’s arrangements have been woven into the fabric of soul, R&B, and popular music for over six decades. From his early days as a classically trained trombonist in Detroit, to his role as one of the core arrangers at Motown, his fingerprints are on some of the most beloved songs ever made. His work adorns classics from ‘My Girl’ to ‘Rocket Love’ … the ‘sweetenings’ that made Motown magical.” – pointing to both his breadth and his role in adding depth and texture to songs.
From Motown to Global Influence
After his years at Motown, Riser’s influence spread far beyond Detroit. He continued to arrange work for major artists across genres—Luther Vandross, Aretha Franklin, Natalie Cole, Phil Collins, R. Kelly, and many more. His ability to move seamlessly between eras and styles has kept his work relevant and deeply respected.
Contributions & Recognition
Grammy Award winner for “Papa Was a Rollin’ Stone” (Best R&B Instrumental Performance) for his arrangement.
Honored by numerous institutions. His legacy is preserved through teaching, speaking engagements, and contributions to cultural archives—including the Motown Museum.
Long-time member of “The Funk Brothers,” the legendary in-house musicians whose work at Motown defined a golden era of music.
What His Legacy Teaches Us
Musical Excellence Requires Both Rigor & Heart: Riser’s classical training (Cass Technical High School, early classical & jazz trombone work) endowed him with precision, but he always infused soul and feeling in every arrangement.
Collaboration is Core: Motown’s creative engine was collaborative—producers, songwriters, musicians, arrangers like Riser working together. His stories about sessions show how respect, chemistry, and trust among musicians made the difference.
Innovation in Service of Song: Riser never sacrificed what the song needed for showmanship. His arrangements support the vocalists, deepen emotion, highlight storytelling.
Continuing the Impact
Even today, Paul Riser’s music continues to be heard, sampled, studied, and taught. His donations—like rare Motown archival material—ensure future generations access the history behind the hits. His work remains a masterclass in how powerful arrangement can be when it serves both melody and soul.
Join the Legacy
Explore select arrangements, learn about upcoming engagements or masterclasses, and see how Paul continues to mentor the next generation of arrangers. Feel free to submit your comments, questions, experiences, ideas, and thoughts by clicking here!