Founding Marshall Tucker Band drummer Paul T. Riddle and noted jazz guitarist Steve Watson (who has recorded theme music for shows like Magnum PI, The A-Team, LA Law and Quantum Leap) both live in the Greenville/Spartanburg, SC area. At the suggestion of one of his guitar students, cardiothoracic surgeon Douglas Appleby, Watson wrote a series of instrumental songs that were “emotionally engaging, relaxing and transforming to the human soul.” He eventually took the project to his neighbor Riddle, who brought in keyboardist Chuck Leavell and bassist Tim Lawter (Marshall Tucker Band) to form a new project.

The musicians have now recorded a self-titled titled album under the name Watson’s Riddle. The album also includes contributions from keyboardists Hazen Bannister (Swingin’ Medallions) and Steve Keeter, percussionist Ricky Hicks, soprano saxophonist Matt Olson, alto saxophonist Will Compton and trumpeter Dick Goodwin. Dr. Appleby also plays acoustic guitar on one song. Watson’s Riddle will also perform at Spartanburg, SC’s Chapman Cultural Center on September 8.