HUSL Today Salutes

Kirk Whalum

Image source: http://www.freedomhill.net/jg/04-whalum/index/P1010087.jpg

Born July 11, 1958 in Memphis, Tennessee, Kirk Whalum was surrounded by music at an early age. Kirk began his musical career on the drums but later switched to the sax in junior high. Kirk began playing local functions and clubs while still in high school. A music scholarship brought him to Texas Southern University in Houston. When asked about his music Kirk responded,

"The music I like to play and write encompasses the four elements I grew up with: Memphis R&B, gospel, rock, and jazz. The emphasis, though, is on melody, period."

In the 1980s Kirk ventured out and started his own band. He became a go to guy for artists visiting Houston in search of an opening act. In 1983 he caught the ear of Jazz Pianist Bob James and Kirk ended up in New York soloing on Bob's album, Bob James 12. Kirk went on to become a member of James' touring band and landed a deal with Columbia Records, where he released 5 records. 

Thanks to his amazing skills on the saxophone, in the late 80s and early 90s Whalum landed a series of session and touring jobs, working with artists like Whitney Houston, Willie Norwood, Babyface, Nancy Wilson, Yolanda Adams, Take 6, BeBe & CeCe Winans, Barbra Streisand, Edwin Hawkins, Quincy Jones, Kevin Mahogany, Al Green, and Luther Vandross. He also has worked on a number of film scores, including those for The Prince of Tides, Boyz in the Hood, The Bodyguard, Grand Canyon, and Cousins (film).





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