Kirk Whalum

Concert Details

Kirk Whalum picked up the saxophone as a boy in Memphis, Tennessee, soaking up the soulful spirituality he found in gospel music. He made his mark in Houston’s thriving nightclub scene in the 1980s, fusing elements of gospel, blues, and jazz to develop his distinctive tenor sound: soul-drenched, emotional, and highly melodic. It was also in Houston where he teamed up with jazz keyboardist Bob James, a collaboration that would lead to five albums, a number one record, and a Grammy nomination.

Whalum’s solo on Whitney Houston’s megahit “I Will Always Love You” made his sound familiar to millions, and he has been an in-demand session player for the likes of Barbra Streisand, Luther Vandross, and Quincy Jones. As a bandleader and solo artist, Whalum has released more than 25 records, including the lauded Gospel According to Jazz series. The 12-time Grammy nominee has also been honored on the Beale Street Brass Notes Walk of Fame and a star on the Music City Walk of Fame in Nashville.

2025 Concert Series sponsored by

Sanderson Lincoln

PNC Bank