Kirk Whalum

Introduction to Kirk Whalum

During his four-decade career, Grammy-winning saxophonist Kirk Whalum has played numerous genres of music, infusing it all with his gospel and Memphis-soul roots. As a collaborator, he has worked with such high-profile artists as Whitney Houston, Marcus Miller, Bob James, and Quincy Jones," states DOWNBEAT MAGAZINE.

Career Overview

GRAMMY® Award-Winner & 12x-GRAMMY® Award Nominated Jazz Saxophonist, Composer & Bandleader KIRK WHALUM's music is usually described as soulful, passionate & stirring. Prior to his solo career, Kirk became an in-demand session player for top artists like Barbara Streisand, Al Jarreau, Luther Vandross, Larry Carlton, Quincy Jones, & most notably, Whitney Houston, amongst many others.

Touring and Collaborations

Kirk toured with Whitney Houston for more than 7 years and it's his sax heard on the mega-hit, "I Will Always Love You," the best-selling single by a female artist in music history! Kirk soon followed that career high point with his phenomenal hit album on Warner Bros. Records, 'For You', perhaps the most successful of over 25 solo recordings to date.

Notable Albums

Other albums include his eclectic & much-lauded, 'Gospel According to Jazz' series, (Chapters 1, 2, 3 and 4) - Chapter 2 & 4 both received GRAMMY® Award Nominations.

Critical Acclaim

"Awesome chops" says ALL ABOUT JAZZ while JAZZ TIMES describes him as "Sensual and Funky."