There’s a great story that Andy Snitzer told me in our session with him for Sax School. In the 1980s Kirk was really busy in the Houston club scene with his own band. His Dad was a minister so Kirk unsurprisingly grew up in the gospel scene and that’s something that is a huge part of his life and career. Kirk Whalum was born in Memphis and grew up in a musical family. Either way, Kirk’s music is accessible jazz with a pop / RnB focus. He’s also known as a “pop” sax player and he has actually recorded probably the MOST FAMOUS pop sax solo ever – more on that in a bit. Now I think of Kirk as a “Commercial Saxophone” player but you might be more familiar with the term “Smooth Jazz”. In our series of Great Players so far we have discussed Charlie Parker, Sonny Rollins, Blues legend Sam the Man Taylor and Funk icon Maceo Parker.īut today we are looking at a Commercial saxophone Legend and one of my absolute favourite players – Kirk Whalum. In Sax School we are constantly looking at all styles of saxophone music from Blues to Jazz, Ska, Pop and even classical. Get the solo transcription PDF for this lesson – plus all of our other free resources Free Solo transcription inside Locker Saxophone Styles
KEILWERTH TENOR SAX KIRK WHALUM HOW TO
Plus, I have a solo transcription for you too and some tips on how to get Kirk’s style in your playing. If you have never come across this incredible player then you’re in for a treat.
If you know about Kirk already then I can’t wait to hear what you think of my favourite albums and tracks suggestions from Kirk.