RICHARD TURNER, JR. | T H E K E Y B O A R D P H E N O M
"The thing that makes Richard special is that he is not only a jaw-dropping musician, it's the kind heart and good-soul vibe that you can't miss when you get to know him. It's definitely on brand to learn that Richard created a foundation that allows him to give back to the community and be a blessing to musicians seeking a music education. It's no wonder he would add to his collection of hats (musician, writer, arranger, music director, church pianist, choir director, and band leader) and don the philanthropist hat. Best of luck with this new chapter in your journey. Well played 88."
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​- Vernon 'V. Ray' Heard
Editor, Positive Black Images Magazine
Richard “88 Fingers” Turner, Jr. is a phenomenal producer, songwriter and performer. Richard began performing at the young age of 10. His first recording was at the age of 13 with his father Richard Turner, Sr. who worked at Capitol Records for many years. He has developed an extensive and varied musical repertoire that includes jazz, gospel, stage plays, and hip-hop. He has also proven to be an outstanding choir director and organist for several churches in the Los
Angeles, California area where he resides.
Richard earned his Bachelor of Arts in Music Education from California State University Dominguez Hills. Industry insiders frequently comment that Richard overwhelms the piano and organ. He also is quite skilled on bass guitar and woodwinds. His moniker, “88 Fingers”, was given to him by his peers because of his exciting playing of the piano at every performance!
Richard Turner's unique versatility has been experienced in live performances with numerous industry giants throughout his career, including the late James Ingram, Teena Marie, and Vesta Williams. Richard has also worked with Patti Austin, Paul Jackson, Jr., Karen Briggs, Billy Davis Jr. and Marilyn McCoo, Beau Williams and the late Thomas Whitfield.
For 18 years he worked as musical director for smooth jazz sensation, saxophonist Eric Darius.
Currently he serves as Minister of Music at Full Gospel Baptist Church and Westminster Presbyterian Church in Los Angeles, CA. He also provides consultation for other southern California churches. He was the organist at the historical Second Baptist Church of Los Angeles for 18 years. Richard’s experience with theatre includes serving as musical director for the gospel musical High Life during the 90s.
His incredible ability can be heard on his newest releases, I Shall Wear a Crown, featuring Eric Darius and Forever by Ronnie Kaufman. Additionally, his talent can be heard on Hidden Beach Records releases Unwrapped Volumes 1, 3, and 4; Yvette M. Devereaux Christmas Favorites on Violin & Piano, Christmas with Richard Turner, Jr. featuring Chemistry and Friends Volume 1; Hallelujah Time featuring The New Vision Mass Choir Volume 1. Richard's producing credits
include Jimmy Sims, Robert Turner, Tim "Bishop" Brown and Mary Floyd.
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Richard has also taught at both The Pasadena Music and Compton Music Conservatories, and previously was a representative of MIDISOFT. He currently teaches private lessons and offers specialty workshops. Richard has the pressing desire to educate aspiring musicians through the teaching and the performance of music and related arts. He is a gifted artist that strongly believes in sharing what God has given him.
His is a talent not to be missed.