J. Riley Cain

From the soulful streets of New Orleans to the rolling vineyards of Napa Valley, J. Riley Cain has carved a distinctive path as one of jazz’s most versatile and expressive artists. Known principally as a jazz pianist and singer/songwriter, Cain is also a composer, arranger, conductor, bandleader, author, educator, and occasional actor, whose career bridges the traditions of New Orleans jazz, the sophistication of modern songwriting, and the spontaneity of improvisation. His work, both onstage and in the studio, reflects a deep reverence for musical heritage and an adventurous spirit that continually pushes boundaries.

A true multi-instrumentalist, including guitar, bass, harmonica, and accordion he has developed fluency across musical styles, from jazz and blues to Latin and pop. His vocal versatility—he sings in five languages—adds another dimension to his performances, allowing him to connect with audiences across cultures and continents.

As a performer in the vibrant clubs of the New Orleans French Quarter he honed his craft among the city’s best musicians. He became a regular fixture in legendary venues, leading his band “Knockout Gumbo”—a name that perfectly captures his musical philosophy: a flavorful blend of jazz, funk, blues, and soul. Through Knockout Gumbo, Cain celebrated the musical melting pot that is New Orleans, delivering performances that were both steeped in tradition and alive with fresh energy.

In addition to Knockout Gumbo, Cain became a frequent guest artist with local favorites such as the New Orleans jazz ensemble “Kinda Blue”, known for its modern takes on classic standards, and The Garden District Band, which held court for years at Houston’s on St. Charles Avenue. His reputation as a sensitive accompanist and charismatic frontman grew steadily, earning him a loyal following among both locals and visitors.

In 2024, Cain was awarded one of the most distinctive honors of his career: a year-long residency at the Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport, where he served as one of the city’s Musical Ambassadors. From the Jazz Garden Stage, Cain greeted travelers arriving in the birthplace of jazz with the warm sounds of piano, song, and storytelling. His performances provided not only entertainment but also a cultural welcome—a living reminder that in New Orleans, music is not background noise but the heartbeat of daily life.
For Cain, the residency was both an artistic challenge and a homecoming. “It was like being the first note in someone’s New Orleans experience,” he recalls. “Every day, I played for people from all over the world who were stepping into the rhythm of this city for the first time. My job was to make them feel that magic right away.”

Cain’s career extends far beyond the Crescent City. He is a touring and recording member of “GTF,” a San Francisco Bay Area smooth jazz group that has earned multiple number-one hit songs and albums charting in the Top 50 of worldwide smooth jazz charts. He frequently performs with his wife, jazz singer KatieCat, in their jazz duo  "KatieCat & Cain." Cain also records and performs with the Chicano jazz group “The Off Brothers,” based in Chula Vista, California. Their music fuses Latin rhythms, traditional jazz harmony, and West Coast cool—a blend that resonates deeply with Cain’s love of cultural crossover. His playing adds warmth and lyricism to the group’s dynamic sound, underscoring his reputation as a bridge-builder between musical worlds.

Cain’s musical journey has taken him across the globe. After several years of performing and teaching in the United States, he spent an extended period in South America, where he owned, operated, and performed at his own jazz venue. The experience deepened his appreciation for Latin American musical traditions and allowed him to immerse himself in new rhythmic languages and cultural perspectives. His time abroad not only broadened his artistry but also reaffirmed his belief in music as a universal language.

Beyond the stage, J. Riley Cain is a passionate educator and cultural advocate. He serves as an Artist in Residence with both the SoCal Jazz Society and the Jazz Society of Ecuador, two organizations dedicated to preserving and promoting jazz through education and performance. In these roles, Cain conducts workshops, masterclasses, and lectures on topics ranging from the history of jazz and Latin music to the relationship between classical and popular traditions.
He also worked as a docent with The Advocates for Classical Music, representing The San Diego Symphony. Through this program, Cain helped young listeners develop a deeper understanding and appreciation of orchestral and classical music. His ability to translate complex ideas into accessible and engaging narratives has made him a sought-after speaker and mentor.
“I see education as performance in another form,” Cain says. “Whether I’m on stage or in a classroom, the goal is the same: to make people feel the story behind the music.”
In addition to his work as a musician, Cain is an accomplished writer. His critically acclaimed book, Life’s A Good Gig, explores the artistry, challenges, and rewards of a life in music. Blending memoir, philosophy, and practical wisdom, the book was nominated for Best Nonfiction Book by the San Diego Book & Writers Awards and has been praised for its honesty, humor, and insight. Cain has also contributed essays and articles to various publications, reflecting on topics such as creativity, jazz history, and the cultural intersections that shape modern music. Cain's Substack Site
 
Now residing once again in the United States—dividing time between New Orleans and the West Coast—Cain continues to tour internationally, performing in jazz festivals, concert halls, and intimate clubs across North and South America, Europe, and beyond. Each performance is a reflection of his wide-ranging influences: the syncopated joy of New Orleans, the romantic lyricism of Latin ballads, the sophistication of modern jazz harmony, and the storytelling heart of American song.