MARCO MONTOYA
Pianist • Keyboardist • Producer
Marco is a pianist, keyboardist, producer, and composer whose career spans more than three decades. Known for his sophisticated blend of contemporary jazz, R&B, and Latin influences, he has established himself as both an accomplished performer and an in-demand producer.
Although his professional career began in the San Francisco Bay Area's vibrant Latin music scene—performing with many of the region's premier salsa orchestras and sharing the stage with artists including Oscar DeLeón, Pete Escovedo, Fruko y Sus Tesos, El Gran Combo, Héctor Tricoche, Richard Bean (Malo), and Giovanni Hidalg. Marco's passion for contemporary jazz has become the driving force behind his artistic vision.
Inspired early on by the music of George Howard, Marco developed a signature style that blends smooth jazz and R&B with soulful melodies, infectious grooves, and polished production. In 2016, he co-founded Smooth Jazz Alley (SJA) and released the acclaimed debut album Been A Long Time Comin', which earned consideration for the 59th Grammy Awards and received multiple Billboard "Most Added" chart placements.
Building on that success, Marco continued to evolve SJA alongside drummer and producer Kevin G. Lewis. Their sophomore release, Let's Ride, was considered for the 63rd Grammy Awards and also charted on leading contemporary jazz radio playlists. Beyond his own recordings, Marco has become a respected producer within the smooth jazz community, producing acclaimed projects including Isaac Norris' radio-charting single "No Shade" and saxophonist Otoe Mori's debut single with SJA "Deep Into You," featuring songwriting by Greg Chambers and a guest appearance by Blake Aaron.
Marco has also performed alongside acclaimed contemporary jazz artists including Steve Oliver, Jeff Kashiwa, Jessy J, Marcus Anderson, Patrick Lamb and more while continuing to expand the Smooth Jazz Alley catalog. The project's third full-length album, Reflections, marks another milestone in his evolution as an artist, with the lead single "Come On!" introducing the next chapter of his distinctive contemporary jazz sound.
While contemporary jazz remains his primary creative focus, Marco continues to perform with Orquesta Borinquen and select Bay Area salsa bands, honoring the musical roots that helped shape his career.