He is an American keyboardist, songwriter, arranger and producer born Andrew Barrett who often works under the alias Andy Schwartz. Known for his work in the disco period from the late 1970s he often played the keyboards with many soul, funk and disco groups. He saw success as the keyboardist for Chic from 1977 to 1982.
As a songwriter he has written and/or arranged songs that include “Looking for Love” and “If You Feel the Need” recorded by Candi Staton, “Gonna Get You” and “Can’t Keep My Love” recorded by Freeez and “You & The Night & The Music” recorded by Elena.
He has worked with many artists as a musician, songwriter and/or producer that include Sheila & B. Devotion, Chic, Freeeez, Eric Gale, Z.Z. Hill, Lady M, Sally Mayes, Robey, The Roches, Diana Ross, O.C. Smith and Brenda K. Starr along with many others.
The numerous recordings he had performed on include Fly Me on the Wings of Love and Blow My Mind by Celi Bee, Sharing Your Love by Change, Chic, C’Est Chic, Risque and Real People by Chic, I Love My Lady by Johnny Mathis, Hang Together by Odyssey, Diana by Diana Ross, We Are Family by Sister Sledge and Candi Staton by Candi Staton along with countless compilations.
Diana Ross recordings
Give Up (Bernard Edwards/Nile Rodgers)
Motown (M 1491F) (US 45)
He plays keyboards here…
Sources:
- https://www.soulmusic.com/article/chic-classic-soul-1979-interview
- http://www.discosavvy.com/chic.html
- https://rateyourmusic.com/artist/andy_schwartz/credits/
- https://www.discogs.com/artist/266306-Andy-Schwartz?page=1
- https://www.allmusic.com/artist/andy-schwartz-mn0000038362/credits
- https://genius.com/artists/Andy-schwartz
- https://www.chictribute.com/links/intro.html
- https://www.facebook.com/chicorganization/photos/from-the-left-cheryl-hong-nile-rodgers-karen-milne-andy-schwartz-aka-andrew-barr/1152801004747522/