Branford Marsalis is a renowned American saxophonist, composer, and bandleader, esteemed for his inventive contributions to both jazz and classical music. Born on August 26, 1960, in Breaux Bridge, Louisiana, Marsalis hails from a veritable dynasty of musicians, with his father, Ellis Marsalis Jr., and brothers Wynton, Delfeayo, and Jason, all being acclaimed artists in their own right.

Emerging onto the professional scene in the early 1980s, Marsalis quickly made a name for himself, first as a member of Art Blakey's Jazz Messengers and then with his brother Wynton's quintet, before embarking on a solo career that would solidify his reputation as a leading jazz performer. His virtuosity on the saxophone is matched by his eclectic musical interests, which have led him to collaborate with a vast array of artists across genres and to pursue a parallel career in classical music, where his interpretations are celebrated for their precision and depth.

Branford Marsalis's discography is a testament to both his technical mastery and his adventurous musical spirit. His recent works, like the soundtrack for the Netflix film "Ma Rainey's Black Bottom" and his Grammy-nominated rendition of "Body and Soul," underscore his ability to infuse traditional forms with contemporary sensibilities. Projects such as "Gabriel Prokofiev: Saxophone Concerto, Bass Drum Concerto" display his engagement with classical repertoire and contemporary composition. Marsalis is not just a performer but also an educator and advocate for music, leading the Branford Marsalis Quartet, instructing the next generation of musicians, and frequently contributing to film scores and soundtracks that showcase the versatility and emotional range of his artistry.

Genres

Contemporary Post-bop

Jazz

Jazz Saxophone

New Orleans Jazz

Related Artists

Wayne Shorter

Joshua Redman

Joe Lovano

Sonny Rollins

Wynton Marsalis

Kenny Garrett

John Coltrane

Herbie Hancock

Chris Potter

Michael Brecker

Terence Blanchard

David Sanborn

Latest Release

Rustin (Soundtrack from the Netflix Film)

Branford Marsalis

Album - 33 Tracks - Released November 3, 2023