RealTracks Artist Bio: Franklin Richardson

Tampa Bay resident Franklin "Third" Richardson is a stalwart of Florida's Smooth Jazz scene, performing in club dates, festivals and recording sessions with such notables as Jeff Lorber, Warren Hill, Nate Najar, Marion Meadows, Paul Taylor, Brian Simpson, Nils, Bobby Lyle, and Eric Darius, who enlisted "Third" in his all-star band for a recent Japanese tour. Blending Jazz, R&B, Gospel and Rock, Third's sound is described as "unique and refreshing."

Richardson began playing the drums in church at the age of 3. In 2005, he entered the nation's largest drum competition, Guitar Center's Drum Off, and placed in the top 6. He was also featured on the 2007 drum DVD release SHED SESSIONZ Vol. 2.

The industry has recognized Third's talent with membership on the Vater and drum Syndicate Party artist rosters. See Franklin "Third" Richardson's promotional video on YouTube at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZF4nrnQEuwk. Plus, check him out on www.allmusic.com.