Donny McCaslin

Donny McCaslin is an acclaimed American jazz saxophonist, composer, and bandleader whose artistry encompasses an atmospheric blend of modern jazz, experimental rock, and electronic elements. McCaslin gained significant recognition with his involvement in David Bowie's final album, "Blackstar," earning him massive acclaim in circles far beyond jazz aficionados. Born on August 11, 1966, in Santa Cruz, California, he emerged from a musical family background, with his father also being a vibraphonist. McCaslin's passionate, vigorous playing style and adventurous musical ethos led him through a steady and impressive career trajectory after studying at the Berklee College of Music.

McCaslin has been releasing albums under his own name since the mid-1990s, with his recent works showcasing a significant evolution in his sound. Albums such as "Blow." from 2018 signal a continued exploration of the intersection between jazz improvisation and the visceral textures of electronic and pop music. This eponymous track, along with others like "The Opener," "Magic Shop," and "Head of Mine / Tokyo," captures his sonic versatility and the depth of his explorations into new territory. McCaslin's body of work is a testament to his innovative spirit and his dedication to pushing the boundaries of jazz into uncharted territories. His evolution as an artist remains an emblematic example of jazz's endless capacity for reinvention.

Genres

Contemporary Jazz

Related Artists

Chris Potter

Mark Guiliana

Joshua Redman

Ambrose Akinmusire

Brad Mehldau

Terence Blanchard

Tigran Hamasyan

Christian Scott aTunde Adjuah

Thundercat

Dave Douglas

Kamasi Washington

Robert Glasper

Latest Release

Lullaby for the Lost

Donny McCaslin

Album - 9 Tracks - Released September 26, 2025