Gregory Gaskins
Gregory was born in Washington, DC and was raised in the historical U Street Area. As a youngster he served papers to the residents and guest of the famous historical Dunbar Hotel.He received his first guitar as a Christmas gift at the age of 6 and began his professional career playing lead rhythm guitar at 16. Greg’s love for music and his determination afforded him opportunities to play in many different venues in his home town of Washington, DC. While a teenager in the late 1950s he played with the El Corols Band usually at Carr’s Beach, accompanying Dionne Warrick, Patty Labelle and the Blue Bells , Martha Reeves and the Vandellas as well as DC’s own Unifics and Al Johnson. The El Corols became a well known band in Washington, DC managed by the late Dr. William Rumsey. The band even had the opportunity to accompany the great Nat King Cole in concert at Eastern Senior High School.
His first gig as an accomplished musician was with Billy Stewart at Washington’s Howard Theatre in the early 1960s. Playing with Stewart gave him exposure to other R & B aggregations and he was soon accompanying The Manhattans based out of Jersey City, NJ. While touring with the Manhattans over a period of 3 years he was approached by John Houston to accompany the Sweet Inspirations, back up group for Elvis Presley. Greg accompanied Elvis and the Sweet Inspirations until 1974 where he acted as director of the Sweet Inspirations band and as opening conductor of the Presley Orchestra under the direction of Joe Guercio. He also had a cameo appearance in the movie “Elvis on Tour. He performed with Ann Margaret, Dee Dee Warrick, Otis Redding, Regina Bell, Al Green, Jackie Wilson, and The Five Stair Steps, touring the United States and throughout the world. The Manhattans finally convinced Greg to return to the group where he remained for 10 years.
During the early 1990s, upon returning home he joined a local group known as Jimi Smooth and Hit Time in order to stay close to home after his many years of traveling around the world.
Greg was presented the 2010 Award of Appreciation for 50 years of contribution to the music industry as a professional Rhythm & Blues guitarist. In April 2010 he was honored with a Resolution from the District of Columbia City Council to honor 50 years of contribution to the music industry locally and internationally.
Greg continues to pursue his dreams and aspirations to promote his recordings, and continues to write music and to do studio recordings while playing local gigs.
