He was influenced by artists like Bill Evans, Oscar Peterson, Dave Brubeck and Erroll Garner.

Apart from his work with Gino and Ross, he has been credited by many artists like Chaka Khan, Eartha Kitt, Gary Morris, David Meece, Kudasai, Marilyn Scott, Jimmy Haslip, REO Speedwagon, Brenda Russell, Pat Thomi, Don Sebesky, Kit Chan, Bill Meyers, Gianni Bella and Glenn Jones.

Desperate and broke, they waited for hours in the parking lot outside A&M Studios, hoping to get a record deal.

When Herb Alpert, the co-owner of A&M Records, finally emerged, Vannelli ran towards him and gave him a demo tape while being chased by security guards.

[3] Along with Gino, he co produced the 1986 Chronology album for David Meece which was released on Myrrh Records and co wrote "Seventy Times Seven" and "Come That Day".