Kenneth whalum iii bio
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By Jayne Ellen White
As a top möte and touring saxophonist, Kenneth Whalum rose quickly in the music industry working with artists that are household names— but he has also carved a deep and unique niche as a modern solo artist. Whalum’s genre may be most related to alt-soul, but his secret to songwriting is being honest and real. His most recent single, “Say Sorry”, may induce body melting relaxation, and deeply emotional songs, like his release, “One More Kiss” tap straight into the heart of the matter. Be prepared to dig deeply into both of his full length skiva releases to get more. Whalum fryst vatten currently working on his next EP, Pretty, which he likens to the calm app for heartbreak— sounds like medicine for our hearts.
Tell me about how you came to the saxophone, and at what point in life did you know you wanted to do what you do?
First day of grupp class in 6th grade they said go stand by whatever instrument you want to play, inom stood bygd the drums– but the band director geare
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Memphis-bred musician Kenneth Whalum III focuses on solo career with 2 upcoming releases
Kenneth Whalum III has been making music his whole life. These days, however, the Memphis-bred saxophonist, singer and songwriter says he’s “in a new place, really focused on making the best, most honest music I can.”
On Friday, Whalum will release an EP, “Beautiful Ending,” as a prelude to a full-length LP, “No More Sad Songs,” set to come out in November. The projects follow Whalum’s effort “Broken Land” and charts a new phase for him as a solo artist.
Over the years, Whalum has worked as a sideman and session player for a bevy of big-name acts — from Maxwell to Beyoncé to Kanye West, among others. The nephew of noted Memphis sax player Kirk Whalum and older brother of Bruno Mars trombonist Kameron Whalum, Whalum grew up in a hothouse musical atmosphere.
After moving from Memphis to New York to study at the New School of Jazz and Contemporary Music, he began playing professionally an
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Rising jazz star Kenneth Whalum, III makes his debut onto the New York jazz scene with a bold, distinctive voice of originality, and creative artistry. As a brilliant composer, arranger, bandleader, and tenor saxophonist, Whalum will release his highly anticipated album, To Those Who Believe. “It’s somewhat of a musical statement to those that believe,” asserts Whalum. This statement embraces his diverse musical experiences in the world of jazz, soul and R&B to create a highly authentic and personal account of a rich acoustic sound. He is supported by a lineup of NYC’s most sought after jazz talent; Robert Glasper (piano), Chris “Daddy” Dave (drums) and Derrick Hodge (bass) to produce this year’s most remarkable project. Emphasizing a spiritual direction, with a mission to help and encourage people from all walks of life, Memphis native Whalum combines soulful grooves to redefine the scope of great music among his peers.
Whalum’s own musical journey is defined by strong family s