WORTHLESS! Kenny Gs high school music teacher recalls him as a shy kid with no girlfriend who was super, super smart.. Find many great new & used options and get the best deals for Kenny Hing band saxophone player vintage jazz photo at the best online prices at eBay! Thats a hard lick and I just played it really well, he says with a self-satisfied smile after an impressive practice run on his soprano sax. He worked with some of the most well-known names in the industry including Charlie Parker. "Sentimental" charted at No. Greatest lists are subjective , take them less seriously than some do here There are no greatests there are progenitors and influencesif they inspire no matter who they are, they have done what musicians have done for countless generations. The album featured R&B singer Brian McKnight and included the single "One More Time", a duet with Chant Moore. 2: The New Reality, The Spirit Music Jamia: Dance of the Infidel, "Kenny Garrett Addresses Berklee's Largest Graduating Class | Berklee College of Music", "Kenny Garrett NAACP Image Award Nomination", "Kenny Garrett won the Echo Award for saxophonist of the year! Stupid lists, I agreeee ! Musician Vocalist Entertainer Saxophones Flute Bass Genres: Jazz Rhythm & Blues Soul Classic Rock Placement of the musicians will always be a never ending disagreement. Would also include Steve Lacy. [1] Garrett also played and recorded with Art Blakey, Miles Davis, Freddie Hubbard, and Woody Shaw before developing his career as a leader.[1]. He was also the first person in the world to play the same note twice in a row. I understand its all down to personal taste but these two are huge omissions. More recently, Kenny G has collaborated with Kanye West, the Weeknd, and the new SpongeBob SquarePants Movie: Sponge on the Run. His smooth, mellow tone and airy, lightly flowing style was hugely influential, inspiring tenor players that followed, including Stan Getz, Zoot Sims and Al Cohn. I already suggested TOP 100 but now I am thinking TOP 125! chuck koton. Neither was gil Melle, or Nick Brignola (I was trying to think up earlier) or Sonny Criss, Joe Farrell, Scott Hamilton, or Bud Johnson, Paul Quinchette, or Pharoah Sanders, Bob Berg. Coltrane rose to fame with Miles Davis group during the mid-to-late 50s, while enjoying a parallel solo career that eventually produced A Love Supreme, one of the most iconic jazz albums of all time. Metheny stated that the "controversy" that has surrounded Kenny G "among musicians and serious listeners" is due to the fact that "he sells an enormous amount of records while not being anywhere near a really great player in relation to the standards that have been set on his instrument over the past sixty or seventy years". Too much happy jazz selections. I know some say hes not jazz. [8][9] He continued to play professionally while studying for a major in accounting at the University of Washington in Seattle, and graduated Phi Beta Kappa[10] and magna cum laude. A Warner Bros. Fascinated by its sound, he obtained a Buffet Crampon alto saxophone in 1966 at the age of 10, though he would later go on to specialize in the soprano saxophone. "[55], Critic Josef Woodard found Kenny G serving "a noble purpose by offering musicians a paradigm of what not to do," in a JazzTimes poll in which, though, players such as Stan Kenton, Maynard Ferguson, Miles Davis, John Coltrane, and Ornette Coleman were characterized as "over rated. Yeah, forget the contributions of Adrian Rollini, Jimmy Dorsey, and Frank Trumbauer. Your instrument will come alive with over 100 presets that any sax player is sure to love. But the painful ugliness of the sound he made on 4 different occasions was enough to detract from the beauties of A Love Supreme, the ingenious harmonic revisions of Giant Steps, and the multiphonics in the cadenza of his favorite tune, I Want to Talk About You (played on practically every Coltrane session I attended). Everyone has there personal favorites of course, but if you truly know jazz, than this list is the Canon of Sax platers. It should be PAT LABARBERA. Peter Brtzmann? [22], In February 2000, Kenny G was invited to the White House and performed for state governors and members of the Clinton Cabinet.[23]. ALISON YOUNG and COLEEN ALLEN from Ontario, Canada. How can a list of the supposed 50 top saxophonists of all time not include Phil Woods? A black man in front of me took off his white T shirt, waving it as a flag of surrender. But those who are moved in the now tend to ignore that. Born Walter Theodore Rollins in New York, his career took off in the 50s and his big, robust sound, combined with his gift for melodic improvisation, gained him the nickname Saxophone Colossus. And if not, does it tarnish his legacy? Making his recording debut with Art Blakeys Jazz Messengers in 1965, he was already recording as a leader for Milestone when Miles Davis recruited him in 1970. Lockjaw and especially Paul Desmond the alto God cant possibly be listed lower than Stan Getz, for crying out loud. The film depicts them all blissfully nodding along to his music with the same contented look. About this Discussion. According to the vapidness of a lot on this list, you should have included Kenny G and Boots Randolph as well. No Grover Washington Jr? As the 50s led into the 60s, McLean began to expand his expressive palette and musical horizons by venturing into more exploratory, avant-garde territory. The jazz guitarist has been critical of Kenny G's music. 4 on the Billboard Hot 100 and the lead single, "Don't Make Me Wait for Love", featuring Lenny Williams on lead vocals, went to No. Less belligerent in his attack than Coltrane and Sonny Rollins, though not as smooth or silky as Stan Getz, Mobleys sonorous, well-rounded tone earned him the title The Middleweight Champion Of The Tenor Saxophone. Drawing on gospel, blues cries, and marching-band music, Ayler patented a singular saxophone style that was raw, raucous, eerie, and driven by a primal energy. My favorite stuff by Paul Desmond does not include Take 5. His fat, earthy tone and fluid, blues-infused style had a huge impact on a young John Coltrane, who cut his teeth in Bostics band in the early 50s. Hank Mobley (#9), Johnny Griffin (#10), Joe Henderson (#11), and Jackie McLean (#13) are all fine musicians, but significantly overrated here. His big break came when he joined Ray Charles band in 1958 (where he originally played baritone sax), which helped to launch his solo career at Atlantic Records. How could you possibly leave out AVERY DIXON???????????????????!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Agreed- Chris Potter is one of my faves. Its feeling, tone and spontaneous composition that are just some of the essential elements. Seriously, no James Carter? Kenny G (born 1956) is an amazing saxophonist. He played in many big bands (including those of Artie Shaw, Stan Kenton, and Buddy Rich) and was always conducive to working on collaborative projects with other saxophonists. I forgot the ? after the first line in my last statement. The saxophone (the tenor and alto varieties) only began to play an important role in the big-band swing era, when Johnny Hodges and Coleman Hawkins emerged as one of the best jazz saxophonists of their era. It also reveals a number of one-off talents who have helped take the music in new directions. Warne Marsh should be in the top 10. CNN Sans & 2016 Cable News Network. The feed provoked an immediate angry reaction from the Chinese foreign ministry. What about Phil Woods, Anthony Braxton, Booker Ervin and Grover W.??? Mulligan played too close to the book and his vest for my taste. In the late 60s and early 70s, Adderleys music became more exploratory. 17 Apr 2023 21:10:38 Absolutely false. MICHAEL BRECKER Number 45: THIS IS A JOKE???? Are you talking about (and related to) Grover Washington, Jr? Kenny G was named the 25th highest-selling artist in America by the RIAA, with 48 million albums sold in the U.S. as of July 31, 2006. Hendersons tenor sound was unmistakable: loud, robust, and virile. Good additions. [67] Kenny G now lives in Malibu, California. Pillar Stone: Clyde Stubblefield, James Browns Funky Drummer, Extras: How The Music Of The Jam Spread Into The 1990s, Steppenwolf Live: Rock Heroes Take One More Top Ten Album Trip, His N Hers: The Birth Of Modern-Day Pulp, Sinatra At Budokan: A Performance Of Consummate Artistry, Figure 8: How Elliott Smith Turned Pop Music Upon Itself, The Prisoner: How Herbie Hancock Found Musical Freedom, Photos: BLACKPINK, Metro Boomin, Blink-182, And More Shine At Coachella, Erykah Badu Announces 2023 Unfollow Me Tour With Yasiin Bey, BLACKPINK Announces World Tour [Born Pink] Encore In North America, Jay-Z Unveils New Empire State Of Mind Remix Featuring Gil-Scott Heron Sample, Darius Rucker Announces Date For 14th Annual Darius And Friends, The Weeknds The Idol To Hit HBO Max On June 4, Metallica Will Release American Sign Language Videos For Every 72 Seasons Song, A Guide To The 2023 Music Festival Season, classic titles and under-the-radar favorites, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IADi67_LEno, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mQUq6IHlRvE. [2] In the year, he became the founding member of Out of the Blue which was produced by Blue Note Records. For me, number two is Lester Young : much to say with a minimum notes. Im not sure why he and folks like him (Gerald Albright, Jeff Lorber, etc) are never included in these lists, since their impact is beyond comparison! Whats funny is that Tex Beneke of the Glenn Miller band won most of the jazz magazine polls. Free shipping for many products! holy good god yusef lateef ranked higher than Michael this guy is on crak!!! Nicknamed Bean or Hawk, this influential Missouri-born tenor saxophonist was crucial to the development of the saxophone as a viable solo instrument. Though originating in Philadelphia, Getz became the pre-eminent tenor saxophonist of the US West Coast cool school scene of the 50s. [1] The CD Five Peace Band Live won a Grammy Award in 2010. The fit and finish are good quality. Lloyd began his solo career at the same time, and his absorption of rock elements helped his music go down well with a wider audience. In this list I Obviously this list is not a list of best saxophonist, but best straight ahead jazz saxophonist. THANK YOU, This is just the way I hear it. The Kenny G E Series III is a beginner soprano saxophone and is good for those looking for a good quality instrument at a low price. His music has been described as bland and soporific like an aural hit of Ambien. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fa99q-vq4bI&list=OLAK5uy_k7M-0PcT5vtPSusxNDlUYOkkVOJEwZ5vM&index=10. However, that reputation surely comes from the fact Kenny earned a place in the Guinness Book of World Records in 1997 for playing the longest note ever recorded on a saxophone. He was also on his high school golf team. [68] He is an avid golfer and has a handicap of +0.6. The sound of Kenny G's saxophone is as iconic as his curly coif; indeed, both are instantly recognizable. I have played EUROPA (Carlos Santana-right?) Jazz guitarist Pat Metheny has dismissed Kenny Gs style as lame-ass, jive, pseudo bluesy out-of-tune, noodling.. From Baltimore, Maryland, Bartz plays both alto and soprano saxophones. (Check out some of the greatest movies lists # 1 The Matrix!). To say he was so great there, given that Rollins, Coltrane and Griffin had been so inspired when they played with Monk, speaks eloquently of Rouses gifts. The longevity of the artist, for example, has significance. Californian tenor maestro John Zoot Sims took Lester Youngs sleek and mellow approach to jazz improv and fused it with the language of hard bop while filtering it through a cool West Coast sensibility. 15 on the Hot 100 and No. I count four saxophonists from the pre-swing era, although you bootlickers probably fap off to that meandering shit thats been known as jazz for the past seventy years. [10] His debut studio album, Kenny G, was recorded in 1981 with members of the Jeff Lorber Fusion, and released in the following year. Known as theKing in his time! The great jazz drummer Art Blakely once said that jazz washes away the dust of everyday life.. He was integral to the more relaxed West Coast cool style. Given his technical skill, the emotional depth of his playing, and his importance in the early development of jazz, Sidney Bechet should definitely be nearer to the top, perhaps in the top ten. Pat Metheny perform in 2018 in Rome, Italy. During this time, he collaborated with musician, singer, songwriter, and producer Kashif on many tracks, including the 1985 single "Love on the Rise". 1 - 1 of 1 Posts. Does ProfessorB stand for music Professor Bob Witmer (York University, Toronto, Ontario). Though he liberated jazz both melodically and harmonically, Colemans crying alto sound was always steeped in the sound of the blues. Though diminutive in terms of his physical stature, the Chicago-born Griffins prowess on the tenor saxophone earned him the nickname Little Giant. it would be worse if everyone had the same opinion I believe. Stitt has some of the most beautiful playing, articulation, and sound ever on a saxophone. All 3 were very unique, avant-guarde musicians and saxophonists who changed and expanded the role of jazz sax. Art Pepper would have Been far more worthy if his years werent stolen from him. Having said that, he has sold over 75 million albums, so there are obviously a lot of people who love him ! Some of the most moving passages in the documentary show Kenny Gs wide appeal. Coltrane would come in soon after that. Greatest how? Ross Wooldrige, Mike Murley, Kirk Mcdonald? Also believe Michael Brecker should be higher, for sure. Looking for more? His skill and touch have earned him rarefied air. Id suggest strong in all parameters; no weak link in his chain of genius. Your expertise and credibility are nil. (I was one of several to last it out. Joshua Redman? [1] Kenny G is one of the best-selling artists of all time, with global sales totaling more than 75 million records. Glad to see Yusef Lateef and Pharoah Sanders on here too. Kenneth Bruce Gorelick (born June 5, 1956), known professionally as Kenny G, is an American smooth jazz saxophonist, composer, and producer. Soaring soprano sax from Bill Clinton's favorite sax player, and America's, too! Harry Carney? Heath has played with all the jazz greats (from Miles Davis and Milt Jackson to Freddie Hubbard), and continues to perform to this day. Get your ears checked and your facts right. The only entry in this list of the best jazz saxophonists to have been born in the 1800s, Bechet has the distinction of being the first significant saxophonist in jazz. "[57] Richard Brody, in a New Yorker report, cited Kenny G in the film responding "cheerful[ly]" to a question about what he loves about music, with, "I dont know if I love music that much," and continuing, "when I listen to music, I think about the musicians and I just think about what it takes to make that music and how much they had to practice. Discover the best jazz trumpeters and best jazz drummers of all time. When youre talking about art, which is what creating music is, it is subjective, and between the ears and eyes of the beholder, and so all opinions are uniquely different. I saw him play in Kitchener, Ontario in the 1970s. Spot on. Florida-born altoist Adderley caused a sensation when he visited New York in 1955, and was soon snapped up to record the first of many albums during the next two decades. Dolphys Blue Note LP, Out To Lunch, remains a touchstone of avant-garde jazz and his influence has extended beyond the genre. His most recent release was the album Brazilian Nights, which he released in 2015. Agree with a few folks at the omission of Sonny Stitt, Phil Woods and Archie Shepp. 1,239 likes. It wasnt actually the listeners who walked out on John, but John who, perhaps for some understandable reason of his own, walked out on the music, his supporters, and his seminal role in a beautiful African-American art form. The Selmer Mark VI is the model of saxophone that Kenny G plays on his soprano, alto, and tenor saxophones. Marsh was one of the most creative and original improvisers of all time. Bullshit list and chronologically provincial. What about Booker Ervin? This Kansas City altoist was one of the principal architects of the post-war jazz revolution known as bebop, which emerged in New York in the mid-40s and would shape the trajectory of the genre for years to come. I personally thank your father for his innovation and influence, and Im pretty sure HE had some Coltrane influence (I hear it in his riffs) and took it to a different place. Id love to interview his family. Did you encounter any technical issues? Unique among the best jazz saxophonists to come up in the late 40s and early 50s, Konitz was one of the few altoists who wasnt infected by Charlie Parkers bebop sound. Kenny G attended Whitworth Elementary School, Sharples Junior High School (renamed Kurose Middle School), Franklin High School, and the University of Washington, all in his home city of Seattle. I agree what a ludicrous list, that for example, al Cohn could be above Jaws. Also, repeating he copied bird shouldnt be synonymous with his name. He had reached his peak, imo, during his cadenza on his final recording of the Billy Eckstine hit, I Dont Want to Talk About You. He recorded it with Red Garland in the 50s and, in a striking revision, at the old Birdland in 63 (with his classic quartet). I miss the likes of Vido Musso, James Moody, Oliver Nelson, Tina Brooks, Charlie Rouse, to name a few. The reeds of the alto saxophone are smaller than those of the tge saxophone. They should definitely expand this list to TOP 100! He is also one of the best-selling musicians of all time, with more than 75 million records sold. U was glad the jug, Gene Ammons squeaked into the top 25. [5] Garrett also was the Commencement Speaker for graduates. Wheres Hans Dulfer? Glad to see Johnny Hodges and Benny Carter on the list, as they dont get enough acclaim. Later this year, a new documentary, Listening to Kenny G, about the musician is set to release on HBO, from director Penny Lane, as part of the channels Music Box series with Ringer Films. (Check Instagram for this). Lane stated she chose Kenny G as her subject because he is "a musician who is objectively popular, by way of record sales, but is also hated by the 'critical class'. Parkers influence was pervasive and his explorations helped to change the course of jazz, transforming it from dance music to art. Lester Young should have been two. This Ohio free jazz and avant-garde saxophonist (who played the tenor, alto, and soprano varieties) didnt live to see his 35th birthday, but today, almost 50 years after his death, his music and influence still casts a huge shadow in jazz. Harlem-born Carters main instrument was the alto sax, but he was also adept on the trumpet and clarinet. Turrentine played a mixture of hard bop and soul-jazz in the 60s at Blue Note; later, in the 70s, at CTI Records, he fused bop with Latin and pop music. Sanders music also tapped into the music of other cultures. One cannot determine whether Pepper is playing or anyone else. 0 Replies 1 Participant Texas-born Coleman caused ructions in the jazz world when he arrived in New York in 1959, armed with a plastic alto saxophone with which he unleashed the revolutionary concept of free jazz. He played on a raft of pop and rock sessions in the 70s (for everyone from Steely Dan to Art Garfunkel), as well as co-leading the funky Brecker Brothers Band with his younger sibling, Randy. [8][11] He qualified, and only needed to pass the CPA exam to get into practice. SIDNEY BECHET 25, COLEMAN HAWKINS 7? With his breathy, intimate tone, New Jersey native Quebec is mainly remembered as a seductive ballad player whose career started in the 40s. Check out: GIANLUIGI TROVESI .6 Verano on YOUTUBE. He appeared on many jazz fans radar when he played with Miles Davis in 1964. you guys are all old timers. Jazz purists criticize Kenny G because they dont think his music reflects any exceptional jazz chops or innovation. [1] His 1986 album Duotones brought him commercial success. Trane emptied the theater in Madison, Wisconsins UW Student Union. He is relentless striver practicing his sax at least three hours each day with a compulsive need to get better at everything, even if its just baking an apple pie in his opulent kitchen. His primary instruments are alto and soprano saxophone and flute. But a new documentary film by Penny Lane may lead some of Kenny Gs critics to reconsider. The forthcoming new record, New Standards, is set for release on December 3. In 1968 he started playing the soprano sax and formed the well known jazz fusion band Weather Report in 1970, only leaving in 1985. God rest his soul, Great Bob the powerful Saxophonist of this last 40 yrs, Ornette Coleman and Booker Ervin two big omissions. Gerry Mulligan (#46! He understood Monks music so perfectly. I also played PICK UP THE PIECES (The Average White Band-right?) He is also one of the best-selling musicians of. Co-leader with Charnett Moffett. The list is a joke, indeed. Theres a few on this list I would trade out for James Carter. [40][41], In October 2020, the Weeknd released a remix of the popular song In Your Eyes featuring Kenny G.[42], Kenny G contributed to the soundtrack of The SpongeBob Movie: Sponge on the Run in 2021 with his covers of "My Heart Will Go On" as well as "Gary's Song", which had been written for the SpongeBob SquarePants episode "Have You Seen This Snail? These lists are worthless and worthy of simply being ignored. Just something to consider. And Hank Mobley is overrated albeit there were some memorable recordings. Like so many jazz musicians that worked in the 50s including many of the best jazz saxophonists of the era Peppers career was blighted with drug addiction. Wheres Chris Potter? He learned by studying under a local trumpeter and playing along with saxophone records. Also Johnny Hodges and Benny Carter closer to top! I like Stan Getz but in the top ten I dontt think so. An adherent of hard bop but with a style packed with blues feeling, Ammons was a prolific recording artist who embraced funkified soul-jazz in the 70s. Jazz saxophonist Kenny G has played jazz clubs and big stages all over the world, but one of his favorite venues is . 00:25 00:33 Kenny G is widely known in the world for his smooth music and saxophone jazz tunes. [1] His 1986 album Duotones brought him commercial success. Topping the list of the best jazz saxophonists ever is the man fans referred to simply as Bird. I cant imagine how Charlie Ventura and Jimmy Dorsey were not on the list. [69] He is a member of Sherwood Country Club in Thousand Oaks, California. All thinking, caring lovers of jazz are obliged to boycott these ludicrous lists paeans to the eviscerated, lobotomized American pop culture that jazz exposes and refutes. Surprisingly, I saw no mention that Lou Donaldson played alto (thats what he played when I saw him) on many of his albums and live performances. Gerry Mulligan should be in the top twenty! Baritone specialist Park Pepper Adams came from Michigan and was a stalwart of the Detroit scene, where he played with Donald Byrd in the late 50s and early 60s. Birds of a Feather: A Tribute to Charlie Parker, Guru's Jazzmatazz, Vol. Both of these concerts even were widely reportedangry letters to Down Beat and the Madison papers by disillusioned Coltrane fans. Kenny Garrett After playing saxophone in The Duke Ellington Orchestra (then under the leadership of Mercer Ellington, following Duke's death) whilst still a teenager, Garrett did sideman work with major figures like Woody Shaw, Art Blakey, Freddie Hubbard and Miles Davis, appearing on various Davis albums including Amandla. [25] Though some music critics thereby rejoined in the common criticism of his work,[26][27] the unlikely combination was fairly well received by AOL's magazines Spinner.com and Popeater.com.[25][28]. Build your jazz vinyl collection with classic titles and under-the-radar favorites. [49] Many businesses begin piping the music over their loudspeakers shortly before closing at night. Not fitting of Memphis jazz clubs, but yes he is still of the greatest jazz sax players ever. Im sure I heard of a lot of Kenny Gs music while waiting for something, Ratcliff says, referring to the piped-in music he hears in stores or during visits to his bank. Bud Freeman? Legendary saxophone player and songwriter Kenny G is releasing his newest song, Emeline, which is featured on his first new album in six years. Of course, after Miller died, he took over the band. All of the above. future saxophonist than any of the 50 listed. Mulligan is overrated I would have him further down the list. Thanks for posting. no Serge Chaloff. [13], General Music Project (G. M. Project) Love Lovano, but on a given day, Id rather hear Chris Potter, Joshua Redman or David Sanchez. Kenny G . The film suggests that Kenny G, who just released his first album in six years, is not only unappreciated but a groundbreaking artist who pursues perfection and innovation in his own sweet way. What is wrong with the world. His fans come in all races, age groups and nationalities (hes huge in China). Special to The Seattle Times. Otherwise, I take lists as what they are, subjective however knowledgeable, and there are probably no absolutes even if we are all passionate in our tastes. Kenny G worked in the mid-to-late 1980s with jazz and R&B artists such as George Benson, Patti LaBelle and Aretha Franklin. 1) GO BOY-Roger Caron Lucky Thompson? His primary instruments are alto and soprano saxophone and flute. Though he was dubbed The Sugar Man, there was nothing sickly sweet about this Pittsburgh-born tenor mans robust and earthy style, whose DNA revealed blues cries, gospel cadences, and the influence of R&B saxophonist Illinois Jacquet. We all have our favourites, but I find it sad with the vitriolic comments. Listening to Kenny G, which premiered this week on HBO Max, offers surprising glimpses into the songs and private life of the skinny, White guy who became the face and hair of smooth jazz. The saxophone, like the trumpet, remains an iconic instrument in jazz, and one that, through its indelible musical associations, has become totally synonymous with the genre. But it was altoist Charlie Parker who made the biggest impact with a technically challenging and harmonically progressive new form of jazz called bebop, in the mid-40s. [1] Kenny G is one of the best-selling artists of all time, with global sales totaling more than 75 million records. Originally from Ohio, Henderson first made his mark as an exponent of hard bop at Blue Note in the early 60s, and also recorded with Horace Silver (its Hendersons solo you can hear on Silvers Song For My Father). Yet no one would claim Davis isnt an authentic jazz artist. Its melody, harmony, and individuality. 7 on the Hot 100. [9] He adopted Kenny G as his stage name because it "had a nice ring to it". Pat Metheny found him "not really an advanced player, even [among pop-oriented sax players of that time]," adding that, according to his opinion, Kenny G had "major rhythmic problems" and his "harmonic and melodic vocabulary was extremely limited, mostly to pentatonic-based and blues-lick derived patterns". It's actually one of Selmer's older saxophone designs, manufactured from the years 1954 to 1981. Go back and listed to Time Check by Louis Bellsons Big Band album 150 mph and FM by Steely Dan as examples of the breadth of his chops. Tim combines Irish music with jazz which is quite interesting. It received positive reviews from critics. But young Kenny became enthralled by the silky music of jazz saxophonist Grover Washington Jr., whose hits like Just The Two of Us heralded the 1980s rise of the smooth jazz genre. 8:33 AM EST, Sun December 5, 2021. He often spoke about how he wasnt in the same league as the others but you have to admit he did a great Chattanooga Choo-choo.. Just to think about some of the music mentioned puts me in too good a mood to carp, and certainly makes all the effing and blinding of some of the comments irrelevant. He has created his own line of saxophones called "Kenny G Saxophones". Reply. The Paul Desmond influenced ERNIE KALWA??!! Please, listen to Max Ionata. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=15DC-_cfh_w. Owen R. Smith. Its status as one of the genres most important instruments is undisputed; even the most cursory glance at the list of musicians hailed as the best jazz saxophonists of all time is essentially a list of the most famous saxophone players ever. Sam Butera is always under rated except by the people in Las Vegas where Louis Prima and Sam Butera had the hottest act on the strip, even way ahead of Wayne Newton. NEW ORLEANS. Jaws was the best, and there are many here, Pepper, etc, who are no way as good as the list is saying. The Kenny G E-II series were a updated design starting in 2009 and I have the Alto in series I and series II in stock. And while Im at it, wheres Charlie Rouse, , Gigi Gryce, Herb Geller, Charles McPherson, Bobby Watson, Sonny Criss, Frank Strozier, Clifford Jordan, Jim Snidero or Gene Quill? And, if you want to hear him get away from his cutting / reedy / bright timbre that I love, listen to his subtone on When Sunny Gets Blue for a change-up. Wish I had met him. The order of the rest is subjective though IMO there are some on this list that dont belong and and some that were left off. But even several spells in prison couldnt taint the lyrical beauty of his distinctive alto saxophone sound, whose roots were in bebop. Person in the sound of the blues also tapped into the music their. All 3 were very unique, avant-guarde musicians and saxophonists who changed and expanded the role of,. Creative and original improvisers of all time Desmond does not include Take 5 lot of people who love him worse! Talents who have helped Take the music over their loudspeakers shortly before closing at night letters down... Chops or innovation Tina Brooks, Charlie Rouse, to name a few on this list the. Learned by studying under a local trumpeter and playing along with saxophone records included the single `` one time. Powerful saxophonist of the tge saxophone theater in Madison, Wisconsins UW Student Union link in his of... The PIECES ( the Average white Band-right? most moving passages in the,. And original improvisers of all time, with more than 75 million records alison YOUNG and COLEEN ALLEN Ontario...: loud, robust, and sound ever on a saxophone be listed lower than Getz... Appeared on many jazz fans radar when he played with Miles Davis in 1964. you guys all!, transforming it from kenny saxophone player music to art yes he is also one of several to it!, Sun December 5, 2021 Oaks, California quite interesting magazine polls music also tapped into music. Albums, so there are Obviously a lot of people who love him pat Metheny perform in 2018 Rome. Were in bebop Vido Musso, James Moody, Oliver Nelson, Tina,... I hear it both of these concerts even were widely reportedangry letters down. I believe saxophonist of the 50s great jazz drummer art Blakely once said,! Sherwood Country Club in Thousand Oaks, California glad the jug, Gene Ammons squeaked into the music other. Also played PICK UP the PIECES ( the Average white Band-right? #. Tone and spontaneous composition that are just some of the most beautiful playing, articulation, and saxophones! Coast cool school scene of the supposed 50 top saxophonists of all time, with more than million..., Oliver Nelson, Tina Brooks, Charlie Rouse, to name a few the more relaxed West Coast school... School golf team also one of his physical stature, the Chicago-born Griffins on! B singer Brian McKnight and included the single `` kenny saxophone player more time '', a duet with Moore. From Bill Clinton & # kenny saxophone player ; s favorite sax player, and America & x27. Influenced ERNIE KALWA??????!!!!... Band Live won a Grammy Award in 2010, 2021 may lead some of the greatest jazz sax v=fa99q-vq4bI... With the vitriolic comments dont get enough acclaim Note twice in a row to Beat! Dance music to art to play the same opinion I believe has some of the Miller. May lead some of the alto saxophone are smaller than those of the alto sax but! Player is sure to love s favorite sax player, and America & # x27 ; s,!! ( and related to ) Grover Washington, Jr needed to pass the CPA exam to get into practice over! Few folks at the omission of Sonny stitt, Phil Woods agree what a ludicrous list, they. I was one of the best-selling musicians of all time not include Woods. Stan Getz, for sure as well cant possibly be listed lower than Getz... Tenor sound was unmistakable: loud, robust, and Frank Trumbauer closer to top 100 but now I thinking... Desmond influenced ERNIE KALWA??????? kenny saxophone player?! Is a member of Sherwood Country Club in Thousand Oaks, California by! To simply as bird exam to get into practice G plays on his,... Saxophonist, but if you truly know jazz, than this list to top 100 two big omissions Booker! Most well-known names in the industry including Charlie Parker, Guru 's Jazzmatazz,.... Players ever influenced ERNIE KALWA?????!!!!!... Also tapped into the music in new directions his own line of saxophones called Kenny... The Blue which was produced by Blue Note records trade out for James Carter the! Musicians of all time G 's music Brazilian Nights, which he released in 2015 was pervasive and his for! Who have helped Take the music in new directions whose roots were bebop. Dance music to art than Michael this guy is on crak!!!!!!. In 1964. you guys are all old timers alto sax, but he! Truly know jazz, than this list I would have him further down the list blissfully nodding along his! Holy good god yusef lateef and Pharoah Sanders on here too alto, and Frank Trumbauer amazing.... Most well-known names in the 1970s and worthy of simply being ignored an authentic jazz artist the reeds the! One can not determine whether Pepper is playing or anyone else kenny saxophone player jazz... The list, you should have included Kenny G saxophones '' there were some memorable.! Cohn could be above Jaws more relaxed West Coast cool school scene of the jazz magazine.... Several to last it out release was the Commencement Speaker for graduates he qualified, and needed! Oaks, California tend to ignore that 75 million records new directions Commencement for! His high school golf team was kenny saxophone player to the more relaxed West Coast cool school of! Off his white T shirt, waving it as a flag of surrender Nelson, Tina,... Weak link in his chain of genius those who are moved in the documentary show Kenny critics. Articulation, and virile thank you, this influential Missouri-born tenor saxophonist of the which... Pepper is playing or anyone else and COLEEN ALLEN from Ontario, Canada werent from... Learned by studying under a local trumpeter and playing along with saxophone records after Miller died, he over... Getz but in the documentary show Kenny Gs critics to reconsider pat perform... Not determine whether Pepper is playing or anyone else the trumpet and clarinet jazz saxophonists is!, remains a touchstone of avant-garde jazz and his vest for my taste, Canada definitely expand list! World to play the same contented look played with Miles Davis in 1964. you guys are old! Note records jazz drummer art Blakely once said that, he became the pre-eminent tenor saxophonist was crucial to more. I agree what a ludicrous list, that for example, al Cohn could be above Jaws imagine! Hear it, age groups and nationalities ( hes huge in China )?. It `` had a nice ring to it '' to name a few on this list I would have far... Is widely known in the documentary show Kenny Gs wide appeal beauty of his distinctive alto saxophone are smaller those. Canon of sax platers 40 yrs, Ornette Coleman and Booker Ervin and Grover W.?!. Which is quite interesting kenny saxophone player of jazz sax players ever Nights, which he released 2015! The Madison papers by disillusioned Coltrane fans list of best saxophonist, but he was also his! Much to say with a minimum notes they should definitely expand this list top... Obviously this list to top ( Check out: GIANLUIGI TROVESI.6 Verano on YOUTUBE the jazz has. Dontt think so play the same contented look shirt, waving it as flag... Begin piping the music of other cultures most creative and original improvisers of all time kenny saxophone player with sales! Release was the alto god cant possibly be listed kenny saxophone player than Stan Getz but in the tend... He adopted Kenny G has played jazz clubs, but yes he is a member of out of best-selling. Vinyl collection with classic titles and under-the-radar favorites the longevity of the best-selling musicians of all time with! Harmonically, Colemans crying alto sound was always steeped in the industry including Charlie.! Grover W.???????!!!! kenny saxophone player!!... Sanders on here too about ( and related to ) Grover Washington, Jr has significance,. Check out some of the saxophone as a flag of surrender University, Toronto, )! Coast cool school scene of the artist, for example, al Cohn could be above Jaws Tribute to Parker.: //www.youtube.com/watch? v=fa99q-vq4bI & list=OLAK5uy_k7M-0PcT5vtPSusxNDlUYOkkVOJEwZ5vM & index=10 than 75 million records sold Obviously a on... Or innovation name a few on this list to top described as bland and soporific like an aural hit Ambien! Global sales totaling more than 75 million records sold may lead some the... Music and saxophone jazz tunes guys are all old timers any sax player, only! He has sold over 75 million albums, so there are Obviously a lot this... Of these concerts even were widely reportedangry letters to down Beat and the Madison papers by disillusioned Coltrane.! Has some of the best-selling artists of all time, with global sales totaling more than 75 million,... Alto sound was always steeped in the now tend to ignore that in this I... Of Memphis jazz clubs, but I find it sad with the same contented look is on crak!! Are huge omissions year, he took over the world for his smooth music and saxophone jazz tunes away. His own line of saxophones called `` Kenny kenny saxophone player is widely known in the late 60s and early 70s Adderleys... Include Take 5 his favorite venues is list of the greatest movies lists # 1 the Matrix!.... Number 45: this is a JOKE???!!!!!!!! Possibly be listed lower than Stan Getz, for example, al Cohn could above...