Soulful, passionate, stirring…these are the words most often used to describe saxophonist Kirk Whalum’s music. Forged from his Memphis, (TN) gospel roots and his 1980‘s initiation into the thriving Houston, TX nightclub scene, Kirk’s big, rich tenor sound is unmistakably his. The 80’s were highlighted by Kirk’s stepping out of his blossoming sideman role and forming his own band. It was also in Houston where jazz pianist Bob James “discovered” him and brought him on tour, which led to five successful albums, including “Cache”, Kirk’s first #1 album. As well, Kirk and Bob received a Grammy nomination for their collaboration album “Joined at the hip”. After moving to Los Angeles, Kirk became an in demand session player for top artists like, Barbra Streisand, Al Jarreau, Luther Vandross, Larry Carlton, Quincy Jones and most notably, Whitney Houston, amongst many others. It’s his sax heard on the mega-hit, “I Will Always Love You.” Amongst other awards, Kirk has won two Stellar Awards – Gospel music’s highest honor. And an eleven time Grammy nominee, he won his first Grammy award for Best Gospel Song (“It’s What I Do”, ft. Lalah Hathaway) in 2011.