James Carter is an American saxophonist born on January 3, 1969, in Detroit, Michigan. He is considered one of the most versatile and virtuosic saxophonists of his generation, known for his ability to seamlessly blend different genres of music, including jazz, blues, and classical.
Carter began playing the saxophone at a young age and was largely self-taught. He was heavily influenced by the music of his hometown, Detroit, which was known for its vibrant music scene. Carter’s playing was also shaped by his exposure to a wide range of musical styles, including funk, R&B, and rock.
Carter’s career took off in the 1990s, and he quickly established himself as a rising star in the jazz world. He recorded his first album, “JC on the Set,” in 1993, and it was met with critical acclaim. Carter’s playing on the album was characterized by his technical prowess and his ability to incorporate different styles of music into his playing.
Throughout the 1990s, Carter released several more albums, including “Jurassic Classics” and “Conversin’ with the Elders,” which featured collaborations with jazz legends such as Lester Bowie and Johnny Griffin. Carter’s playing continued to evolve during this time, and he began incorporating elements of free jazz and avant-garde music into his playing.
Carter’s career continued to flourish in the 2000s, and he expanded his repertoire to include classical music. He collaborated with the Detroit Symphony Orchestra on a project called “Chasin’ the Gypsy,” which blended jazz and classical music.
In addition to his recordings, Carter is known for his dynamic live performances. He has performed at some of the biggest jazz festivals in the world, including the Monterey Jazz Festival and the North Sea Jazz Festival.
Carter is also a sought-after educator and has taught at several music schools and workshops throughout his career. He has also been a guest lecturer at several universities, including Harvard and the University of Michigan.
Today, James Carter continues to be one of the most innovative and influential saxophonists in jazz. His playing is characterized by his technical prowess, his ability to seamlessly blend different genres of music, and his commitment to pushing the boundaries of what is possible on the saxophone.
Page last updated 3/28/2023.
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