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Growing up in St. Louis, Missouri, Dwayne, and Dwight were immersed in the captivating world of jazz from a young age. Their passion for this genre was ignited by the melodic tunes of legendary jazz artists such as Earl “Fatha” Hines, Count Basie, Duke Ellington, Miles Davis, and their father Lloyd Smith, who was not only a successful businessman but also a talented musician who played alongside Basie and Ellington. The twins’ mother, Paula V. Smith, added to their musical upbringing as she herself was a devoted jazz enthusiast and became the first African American Administrator of the Wage and Hour Division for the U.S. Department of Labor during the Regan Administration.
As the brothers continued to grow, their musical influences expanded beyond their family circle. Since their parents enjoyed close relationships with renowned musicians like Louis Armstrong, John Coltrane, Oliver Nelson, and Charlie Parker, being surrounded by jazz royalty as a young age further fueled their love for jazz. By the time they reached the age of 14, Dwayne and Dwight had already embarked on their professional music careers, performing together as The Bosman Twins. Throughout their journey, The Bosman Twins have had the privilege of sharing the stage with iconic figures in the entertainment industry, including Freddie Cole, Branford Marsalis, Fontella Bass, Roy Ayers, David Peaston, and the late trumpeter, Lester Bowie. To complement their performances, the twins are accompanied by a talented three- or four-piece rhythm section comprised of some of the most accomplished touring musicians in the international jazz scene.
Whether they are showcasing their own band, currently enjoying a monthly residency at Winter’s Jazz Club Chicago, and touring and collaborating with other esteemed jazz professionals, The Bosman Twins have garnered widespread respect and recognition for their distinctive style and interpretations of jazz, rhythm and blues, funk, and gospel. Their musical prowess has earned them both national and international acclaim, solidifying their position as influential figures in the world of jazz.
The Bosman Twins, authored by Dwayne, are recipients of the “Harmon How to Listen” and the Missouri Folk Art grants, have embarked on a journey across the nation as music directors and advocates for youth music education. Their unwavering dedication to urban youth is evident through their establishment and execution of jazz workshops, seminars, and classical music programs. By fostering an environment that encourages personal growth and talent exploration, The Bosman Twins encourage students to appreciate and respect the abilities of others. Moreover, they impart the importance of maintaining high self-esteem and striving for excellence in their musical pursuits. Dwayne is the retired Music Director at Crossroads College Preparatory School in St. Louis, and Dwight, retired from St. Louis Public School District as Band Director and Music Educator with over 30 years of experience. As Jazz Ambassadors, The Bosman Twins continue to impact the music songbook of jazz.
The Bosman Twins are filled with immense pride and gratitude for the numerous awards and recognitions they have received throughout their career. Their passion for music has allowed them to share their incredible talent with audiences all over the world. One highlight was on Saturday, September 12, 2021, when The Bosman Twins were bestowed with the prestigious “Legends Award” from The Kranzberg Foundation during the inaugural Music at The Intersection Heritage Festival, in recognition of their remarkable contributions to the St. Louis music scene. Their success continued as they were honored with three more distinguished awards, including the esteemed Excellence in the Arts from the St. Louis Arts and Education Council in January 2016.