A house RESOLUTION

 

to congratulate and honor celebrated performer William Rhinehart for his distinguised career as an accomplished american musician and entertainer.

 

Whereas, the members of the South Carolina House of Representatives pause in their deliberations to recognize and celebrate the remarkable career and artistic achievements of the talented William Rhinehart, whose unwavering dedication to music and entertainment has left an indelible mark both in Columbia and across the globe; and

 

Whereas, a 1977 graduate of W.J. Keenan High School, Mr. Rhinehart furthered his studies at Brevard College in North Carolina, earning an Associate of Fine Arts degree in 1979. He went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts in Jazz Composition and Arranging, Saxophone, Piano, and Vocal Performance from Berklee College of Music in Boston, Massachusetts, where he received the prestigious Quincy Jones Award; and

 

Whereas, Mr. Rhinehart's musical journey began at the age of fifteen, performing saxophone with Columbia's own Soul Dimensions before progressing to Transphonic Funk. In Boston, he founded The Hartbeat Band, which was named Best Band in Boston in both 1981 and 1982. He went on to serve as music director for renowned English singer Julie Grant, performing at Marriott resorts across the globe. In 1983, he joined Rick James and the Stone City Band for the Cold-Blooded album and tour; and

 

Whereas, in 1984, he collaborated with Paul Leka at CBS Records, later signing with Hush Productions as a writer and producer after relocating to New York City. His songwriting and production credits include work with Beau Williams; Ray, Goodman & Brown; Sarah Dash; Gwen Guthrie; and the legendary Melba Moore, among others; and

 

Whereas, from 1985-1996, Mr. Rhinehart served as keyboardist and music director for Fred Parris and The Five Satins, best known for their iconic hit "In the Still of the Night." The group has since been inducted into the National Rhythm and Blues Hall of Fame; and

 

Whereas, in 1992-1993, Mr. Rhinehart toured as keyboard bassist for Vanessa Williams, appearing on The TODAY Show, Saturday Night Live, and contributing to a Special Olympics Christmas album and video, among other notable events; and

 

Whereas, upon returning to his home state of South Carolina, he devoted himself to teaching and performing with local artists, eventually forming the trio, Two Gentlemen and a Lady, in 2002. He built his home on his family land in Saluda, where he continues to reside, having faithfully served numerous churches and his community through his music programs over the past twenty-five years; and

 

Whereas, the members of the House of Representatives deeply appreciate the unparalleled talent and remarkable contributions of William Rhinehart, whose legacy in the music industry continues to inspire and uplift and has brought honor to the Palmetto State through his extraordinary talent and lifelong dedication. Now, therefore,

 

Be it resolved by the House of Representatives:

 

That the members of the South Carolina House of Representatives, by this resolution, congratulate and honor celebrated performer William Rhinehart for his distinguished career as an accomplished American musician and entertainer.

 

Be it further resolved that a copy of this resolution be presented to William Rhinehart.

----XX----