Veteran trumpeter, flugelhornist, and vocalist Zinn has gained international recognition with three critically acclaimed albums.
Compiled By Victor Amatori, Branford Parks, Recreation & Leisure Services
BRANFORD, CT Veteran trumpeter, flugelhornist, and vocalist Rob Zinn has carved out a powerful niche in the contemporary jazz scene, bringing a fresh, groove-driven style to audiences worldwide. Now the veteran performer will be showcased in the 2025 Branford Jazz Series on July 3 behind Branford Town Hall starting at 6:30 p.m.
Since the launch of his solo career in 2016 with Yesterday Again, Rob has gained international recognition with three critically acclaimed albums, including Walk the Walk (2018) and his latest release, Anything Can Happen (2023), which was produced in part by Grammy-winningguitarist Paul Brown.
A bold, genre-blending artist, Zinn’s sound is a seamless fusion of contemporary jazz, funk, Latin, R&B, and pop influences. Walk the Walk was selected for the 61st Grammy Ballot for Best Contemporary Instrumental Album, and his music has earned top 40 chart positions across Billboard, Mediabase, Smooth Jazz Network, Groove Jazz, and more, with airplay in over 160 countries.
With Anything Can Happen, Rob teamed up with an all-star lineup including Paul Brown, Greg Manning, Adam Hawley, Andrew Neu, Ragan Whiteside, Bob Baldwin, and others, creating a vibrant, contemporary sound filled with infectious melodies and rich horn arrangements. His compositions have been praised for their emotional depth and musical sophistication.
Rob’s live performances have graced stages at major festivals such as the San Diego Smooth Jazz Festival, Mallorca Jazz Festival, Greater Hartford Festival of Jazz, Berks Jazz Festival, Clifford Brown Jazz Festival, Balcones Heights Jazz Festival, Lake Arbor Jazz Festival and the Jazz Legacy Foundation Festival. When not leading his own band, Rob sometimes performs with Paul Brown and other top-tier artists, displaying his versatility and charisma on stage.
Born in Maryland, raised in Delaware and now living in Florida, Zinn’s musical roots run deep—from early swing and big band gigs to high-energy funk and blues acts. A longtime side man before stepping into the spotlight, he honed his craft playing with regional ensembles and opening forlegends like Tower of Power, The Spinners, and Kool & the Gang. His expressive horn playing and heartfelt approach reflect a lifetime immersed in diverse musical traditions.
"For me, the ultimate is creating a special moment for listeners—something they feel emotionally," Zinn said. "Whether it’s a melody, a chord, or the energy in a live show, I want to connect and leave them with something meaningful."
He called being part of the Branford Jazz Series an "incredible opportunity to share my music and artistry."
"This amazing series gives national artists a chance to connect with the wonderful people of Branford, Connecticut. A beautiful outdoor venue, great energy—what could be better?