Randy Bernsen
A Lifetime of Music and Sound
South Florida jazz guitarist and composer Randy Bernsen brings melody to the meeting place of jazz, funk and fusion. His debut, Music for People, Planets & Washing Machines, brought together Jaco Pastorius, Herbie Hancock, Bob James and Peter Erskine, establishing a recording career shaped by musical curiosity and extraordinary collaborators.
His follow-up, Mo’ Wasabi, expanded that circle to include Wayne Shorter, Michael Brecker, Marcus Miller, Steve Gadd and Toots Thielemans. Randy has recorded and performed with Joe Zawinul, including work on Lost Tribes. His musical collaborations also include Jimmy Haslip, Steve Rucker, Dan Bonsanti, Mike Levine and A. R. Rahman.
Randy’s recordings move from original compositions and organ-trio grooves to live performances and sacred melodies. Projects include Calling Me Back Home, Grace Notes, Be Still and Know, Angels We Have Heard on High, AppTeaser and Heart Mind and Soul. His international work includes guitar throughout Zainal Abidin’s Gamal and co-writing “Randy’s Song” with Zainal. He also appears on the Jaco Pastorius Big Band albums Word of Mouth Revisited and The Word Is Out!
Based in Fort Lauderdale, Randy continues to record and perform in the United States and Europe. His Christmas project, Santa’s Brew – A Christmas Jam, arrives November 6, 2026, bringing together holiday melodies, jazz and groove. For festivals, jazz clubs and special events, visit the Contact page.
Beyond the Stage: Aviation
Randy is also a professional HondaJet pilot with Genesis Flight Support, bringing more than 25 years of professional aviation experience to his work. He holds an Airline Transport Pilot certificate, and his flying background includes the Learjet, King Air, Pilatus PC-12 and JetStar, along with a year based in Europe.
Randy and his wife, Giselle, also serve as Journey Directors. Giselle provides concierge service for private aircraft travelers. For aviation inquiries, contact Randy.