You could call him a singer, multi-instrumentalist, composer, producer, ethnomusicologist, two-time Grammy-winner, world-class musical collaborator, musicians' advocate, world traveler, fisherman, or cigar aficionado.

These titles are all accurate, yet none convey the warmth, humor, and soulfulness of Taj Mahal and his music--a distinctive brand variously described as Afro-Caribbean blues, folk-world-blues, hula blues, folk-funk, and a host of other hyphenations. His music reflects his global perspective, incorporating sounds from everywhere he's lived and traveled.

A self-taught musician, Taj plays more than 20 instruments, including the National Steel and Dobro guitars and sings with a remarkable range from gruff and gravelly to smooth and sultry, producing an intoxicating musical cocktail of voice and instrument.