Early Life
Kenneth Gorelick was born on June 5, 1956 in Seattle, Washington. He lived a largely “normal” childhood, and he got his start in music when his mother rented him his first saxophone. G learned the instrument almost entirely on his own, as he spent hours every day by himself learning to play by listening to jazz records and teaching himself to play along with the sounds he heard. His biggest influence was Grover Washington, Jr., and his ultimate style was and is a direct reflection of the “smooth” jazz that he had hear on his record player and on the radio.
G was not a complete recluse during his early years, however. He had a strong group of friends, and took part in several socially-driven activities during his teenage years. At Franklin High School, G was a top golfer for the high school team, and he continues to be a top-flight amateur golfer to this day, appearing in several pro-am events. G was also an active member of the high school band, and this experience allowed him to add some technical value to his musical approach.
Career
G got his career start when he was 20 and was signed to play as a saxophone soloist for Barry White’s Love Unlimited Orchestra in 1976. It was also at this time that he adopted his name, “Kenny G,” as it was more recognizable than his birth-given moniker. During this time, G also completed his college studies, and after establishing himself musically with the likes of Barry White, G signed his first record deal.
G’s albums were a mix of solo work and collaboration with the likes of Aretha Franklin, Whitney Houston, Natalie Cole, Toni Braxton and others. G also continued to perfect his on-stage act, and Kenny G tickets began to gain momentum on the musical market. His solo work was as recognizable as any non-singer’s in the world.
G’s records also began to sell in a big way, and his 1986 release, Duotones, was the cut that made him famous world-wide. Since then, G has simply become one of the top-selling artists of all-time, and his musical style, though panned by many who refuse to call his work “true” jazz, is not only recognizable but also influential.
If you want to experience all the emotion that G puts forth in his performances, Kenny G tickets are guaranteed to give you a night of melodic jazz to remember.