Kirk Whalum is an esteemed American jazz saxophonist and songwriter, renowned for his soulful, emotive playing style and his deep roots in both jazz and gospel music. Born on July 11, 1958, in Memphis, Tennessee, a city steeped in musical tradition, Whalum's innate talent and passion for music emerged early on. He initially gained recognition in the 1980s, thanks in part to his collaboration with top-tier artists and his proficiency on the tenor saxophone. Over the years, Whalum has built an impressive career, distinguished by a series of successful albums and collaborations that showcase his versatility across genres.

Whalum's contributions to music are a rich tapestry that weaves together elements of R&B, gospel, and pop, establishing him as a versatile artist with a unique expressive voice. His 2015 release, "The Gospel According to Jazz, Chapter IV," affirms his dedication to exploring the nexus of jazz and spiritual music. With a career spanning decades, Whalum has continued to enchant audiences with recent works such as "Humanité" – an album that sees him exploring the global landscape of music and soulful expression. His affinity for Christmas tunes is evident in releases like "All I Want for Christmas is You" and "How Does Christmas Sound?", which offer a fresh take on holiday classics. Furthermore, his tributes to legendary musicians, reflected in projects like "Everything Is Everything: The Music of Donny Hathaway," showcase his deep reverence for his musical forebears. Whalum's influence extends beyond his recordings; he is an artist dedicated to education and mentorship, often contributing to the growth and development of aspiring musicians.

Genres

Jazz Saxophone

Jazz Worship

Smooth Jazz

Smooth Saxophone

Related Artists

Dave Koz

Norman Brown

Najee

Boney James

George Benson

David Sanborn

Brian Culbertson

Euge Groove

Richard Elliot

Gerald Albright

Jonathan Butler

Rick Braun

Latest Release

Epic Cool

Kirk Whalum

Album - 11 Tracks - Released May 17, 2024