“Ralph MacDonald Influential Force On Cash Box Charts
By Cookie Amerson
LOS ANGELES – Having recently made his debut as a solo performer, percussionist / songwriter Ralph MacDonald has several merits to his favor at this early stage of his career. Having been recognized by People magazine and being one of few relatively unknown artists to have his initial solo performance this past November sold out before opening night, MacDonald is starting in a different area well above the norm . Having remained in the background for several years, MacDonald stated,” My associates constantly
told me I should strike out on my own, and I simply felt that this was the opportune time to do just that.” Chart Force Being very sought after for his percussion expertise whether it be on stage or in the studio, his efforts are more widely spread than one would realize. MacDonald’s percussion currently appears on 10 out of 40 titles on the Cash Box Jazz Cash Box / March 12 , 1977 Album Chart, with five of those titles being in the top ten, including, George Benson’s “In Flight,” Grover Washington’s “Secret Place.” George Benson’s “Breezin’, “Chuck Mangione’s” Main Squeeze,” and Gato Barbieri’s “Caliente.” MacDonald also appeared on five albums nominated for Grammy Awards, including three that won, by The Starland Vocal Band, Paul Simon and George Benson. His percussions have appeared on countless million sellers including Roberta Flack’s “Killing Me Softly” and “Fee l Like Makin’ Love.” Co-writing with his partner William Salter a tune called “Where Is The Love,” that was later recorded by Roberta Flack and Donnie Hathaway. Was the upward turning point in his career. MacDonald chose this particular song, to launch his own solo career
as an artist on Marlin Records, and he is currently enjoying chart success in his own right. MacDonald has lent his talents to several upcoming albums, including work…”