J. White

Saxophonist J. White is an internationally recognized Billboard artist, songwriter and producer who commands your attention with captivating performances and amazing, soulful sounds. He is a passionate, determined, and gifted artist.

A native of Detroit Michigan, J. White is a vibrant, versatile performer whose influences range from Gerald Albright, Cannonball Adderly, and Kirk Whalum to Charlie Parker, Dexter Gordon, and Grover Washington Jr. His own style and presentation borrow from the Pastelle and Rosewood movement, the contemporary urban scene, and youthful expressions from around the globe. J. White’s music is without a doubt soulfully driven and technically motivated, intertwining the sounds of Smooth Jazz with a hint of Straight-Ahead to deliver a sensual, harmonic, and melodic sound and he is creating his own destiny with his unique, all-around talent.

J. White has already performed alongside many industry greats such as Warren Hill, Nick Colionne, Peter White, Euge Groove, Eric Darius, Eric Roberson, P.J. Morton, Najee, Smokie Norful and Dave Hollister. J. White took runner up at the Warren Hill Sax Summit, competing with saxophonist from around the world. As a result of his success, he was invited to perform at several major jazz festivals to include the Arizona Jazz Festival, Las Vegas Jazz Festival, Jazz at the Creek, and the San Diego Smooth Jazz Festival for two consecutive years. J. White’s music and stellar performances began a movement reaching jazz venues and festivals around the country.

For White, it all began when he was forced by his mother to join the elementary school band. Having to decide on a single instrument grew difficult but when asked which he would like to play, he chose the saxophone stating, “I guess that one…I like the way it’s shaped”. Unknowingly his answer would unlock his incredible talent and amazing musical future.

White began to develop quickly in music, studying privately under the late Emil Acitelli. His efforts eventually lead to a music scholarship attending the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in music and performed with the Marching Band, Wind Symphony, and toured with the Jazz Ensemble under the direction of the late Odie Burrus. While in College he began to tour all over the State of Arkansas and Memphis performing with a local show band. It was at the tender age of 20 when he learned about showmanship, connectivity, and musical excellence.

“I want my music to have identity and purpose and be felt by people from all walks of life. The freedom and life I feel when I’m on stage or in a night club playing with my eyes closed, is the same feeling I want listeners to experience when they turn my records on.”

White’s releases have cracked the Billboard Top 20 Charts with heavy rotation on Sirius XM Watercolors, as well as many stations all over the country.