KIRK WHALUM

Soulful, passionate, stirring… these are the words that describe Kirk Whalum’s music most often. Kirk’s big, rich tenor sound is unmistakably his. It’s forged from his Memphis gospel roots and his 1980‘s initiation into the thriving Houston, TX nightclub scene. The 80’s were highlighted by Kirk’s stepping out of his blossoming sideman role and forming his own band. It was there that Kirk ultimately developed both his “voice” and songwriting in the crucible of the local club scene. It was also in Houston where jazz pianist Bob James “discovered” him and brought him on tour.

After moving to Los Angeles, Kirk became an in-demand session player. He worked with Barbra Streisand, Al Jarreau, Luther Vandross, Larry Carlton, Quincy Jones, and most notably, Whitney Houston. It’s his sax heard on the mega-hit, “I Will Always Love You.” Kirk soon followed that career high point with his phenomenal hit album For You. Also, it became perhaps the most successful of over twenty-five solo recordings to date. Others include his eclectic, and much lauded, Gospel According to Jazz series (Chapters 1, 2, 3 and 4).

Kirk has received numerous awards and acknowledgments for his musical excellence. For example, he has three Dove Award nominations and an NAACP Image Award nomination. Additionally, Kirk has won two Stellar Awards: Gospel music’s highest honor. A twelve-time Grammy nominee, Kirk won his first Grammy (2011) for Best Gospel Song. Kirk has also been honored with a Brass Note on the Memphis Walk of Fame and a Star on the Nashville Walk of Fame.

​In a career spanning several decades, Kirk has a sound that is uniquely his. Thus, it is a sound that leaves an indelible imprint on the listener.