Sam Stryke

In the Wind

In the summer of 1990, Sam Stryke produced In the Wind, an independent instrumental CD with Fred Baker in Grand Rapids, Michigan. With great vision and enthusiasm, Sam’s manager, Bill Simonson created a marketing and media campaign that helped In the Wind become a number one-selling CD in many music stores in West Michigan.

Atlantic Records noticed the great sales and Sam Stryke was soon signed by Toby Emmerich.

This CD represents Sam’s early style with influences from David Foster to George Winston.

What I Like About This Album...

This album was quite an accomplishment for me. I had finished my freshman year at Northwestern University and spent the summer working harder than I ever had in my life to create my first CD.

I think this album shows my sense for melody and phrasing. I still really enjoy the compositions.

When I look back at this CD I recall the incredible adventure that we had on its journey.

My years as a jazz pianist in Chicago in the mid-nineties shifted my focus from using synthesizers and samplers and created a love for recording with live musicians. My next two CD’s, Emerging and Christmas are a testament to that.

- Sam

Musicians

Sam Stryke
piano, keyboards
Mark Kieme
saxophones
Bill Vits
percussion