He does not possess a household name, but Preston Glass is one of the most quietly influential hitmakers of R&B and pop, a songwriter-producer whose melodic instincts and emotional clarity helped define radio-friendly soul from the late 1980s through the 1990s. During a period when adult soul found its footing, Preston Glass was front and center.
Glass began his career as a staff songwriter for legendary Philly producer Thom Bell in the 70s. He also worked as a session musician supporting major artists of the era, before moving behind the boards in the mid-80s to produce a who’s who of stars, from Johnny Gill and Stacy Lattisaw (Perfect Combination) to George Benson (While the City Sleeps) to Earth Wind & Fire (Touch The World).
Glass was also an in-demand songwriter, with a basketful of smash hits like “Who’s Zoomin’ Who” for Aretha, “Miss You Like Crazy” for Natalie Cole, and “Don’t Make Me Wait For Love” by Kenny G.
In the 21st century, Glass has become an important producer and songwriter for legacy soul music acts, helping such notables as Ali Woodson, The Stylistics, The Spinners and others record well-received new albums that bridged their historical sound with modern flourishes. He also spent several years teaching songwriting at both UCLA and San Diego State University.
Glass has several albums under his own name, most recently 2026’s Where The Passion Is, the third of his all-star projects featuring guest vocalists and musicians from his vast network he calls his “Chosen Family.”
By Chris Rizik
