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Biography
A lot of artists say that music saved their life, and a lot of the time they’re being melodramatic about it. David Sanborn is a man who can mean it in the most literal sense possible, since he suffered from polio for eight years as a child. His doctor recommended taking up the saxophone as a way of strengthening his chest muscles and controlling his breathing, and the young Sanborn took to it in a way that nobody could predict. Soon after he took the instrument up he was practising for the sake of playing rather than for any medical reason, and by the age of 14 he was performing live alongside blues legends like Albert King at local Florida clubs. He continued playing all throughout his teenage years before studying the saxophone at the University of Iowa under the tuition of jazz legend J.R. Monterose.
He began his professional career at the age of 22, at first continuing to play the blues, but as he began to work as a session musician he found that to stay in demand he had to be able to play as many styles as possible. For the rest of the 1970’s he worked with everyone from James Brown to Bruce Springsteen, from Stevie Wonder to Carly Simon, and by 1975, he’d made enough of a name for himself to begin his own solo career, releasing his debut album “Taking Off”, that year. He continued to enjoy a steady career as a session player until the early 80’s when his solo career really took off. His 1981 effort “Voyeur” yielded the Grammy Award winning track “All I Need Is You” and his 1986 effort “Double Vision” and 1988’s “Close Up” received awards as well. He remains one of jazz music’s most prolific collaborators and continues to record and tour to this day, and for that, he comes highly recommended.
Live reviews
This was definitely one of the best sax shows I have ever seen for a number of reasons. Firstly, because Mr. Sanborn master the instrument as many few people are capable of. It looks like the sax is simply an extension of his arms and he makes the movements quite smoothly and at the same time vigorously extracting the most out of it. The arrangements and performances for the musics "Maputo", "Tequila", "Ordinary People" and all the others were breathtaking and unforgettable.
Secondly, because contrary to many other band leaders who introduce the members while any music is still going on and no one can hear their names, he rather introduce one by one when there is no music being played and therefore it allows you to hear properly their names. At first it may seen as something of minor importance but it is not because it shows respect for the professionals and for the audience.
Thirdly, because even though he is the band leader and everyone knows that, he also gives room for each band member has his own solo moment and this was absolutely amazing. On my opinion, it shows that an artist of his stature does not need to have the spotlights on him all the time and he shares the lights with his spectacular musicians.
Lastly, but no less important, he was absolutely kind, patient and respectful with all his numerous fans that lined up after the show to have a CD autographed and a take a couple of pictures.
Therefore, for all those reasons that Mr. Sanborn is one of the greatest sax player of our time and his shows are not to be missed.
luizvalerio
I attended the DOUBLE VISION REVISITED concert in Detroit's Aretha Franklin Amphitheater last night. The show featured Bob James, David Sanborn & Marcus Miller, with drummer Billy Kilson and guest vocalist Larry Braggs (formerly with Tower of Power). I thought the concert was fantastic from start to finish, with virtuoso performances and by every band member.
A highlight was their rocking cover of Papa Was a Rolling Stone, much appreciated by the Detroit audience! There were many more great performances. Marcus Miller's Maputo was a standout as well. A new arrangement by Bob James of Mister Magic, which he originally arranged for Grover Washington, Jr., was a nice surprise!
I've been a fan of Bob James and David Sanborn since their first albums, separately and together, and enjoyed hearing many of their tunes from way back when. Everyone was in top form. Marcus and Billy gave over-the-top fantastic performances with solos that were a joy to watch.
Outstanding job guys, loved every minute, and enjoyed the between-song sharing as well.
Finally, the audience was great and the venue was excellent, with good sound, outdoors on the Detroit River in perfect weather.
mxbarn1
I do not care what anybody says, the saxophone is cool. It may be in part due to my inner high school band nerdiness, but I have always loved the cool sounds of a saxophone. David Sanborn is no exception to this, because he plays the alto saxophone and because of it, exudes cool. I love the idea that a jazz musician can just be so cool, playing their instrument as an extension of their emotions and thoughts.
David continues to travel the world playing jazz shows and festivals. Backed by a band that consists of a standing bass, electric bass, keyboards, drums, trumpet and another sax player, he keeps your attention at the center of the stage, right on him. The way he closes his eyes and plays, is completely immersed in playing, almost as if no one else is there and he is just speaking his mind, makes you appreciate the intimacy of his shows. He lets you into his mind, the playfulness, the emotions, you get it all. On top of all of that, you have a good time because the music is a bit funky, and upbeat enough to turn to the person next to you and dance a little.
Ellinoinsta
One of the Greatest Sax Artists plays in an overpriced shack and saves the day
Ronnie Scott’s May be one of the Oldest Jazz Clubs in the world but I wish for the fans sake artists would boycott it.
It’s overpriced and you are packed in so tight that it makes airline coach class a breeze, not the most likely place to enjoy world class Jazz in any sort of comfort but some how David Sanborn did just that despite the cramped seating.
He was on stage for over 90 spellbinding minutes with an outstanding band comprising of Wycliffe Gordon- trombone, Billy Kilson- drums, Andy Ezrin- keys, Ben Williams- bass and boy did the Jazz flow. In some senses it was a Michael Brecker night since for of the seven tunes set were Brecker compositions interspersed with a vibrantly new take on Maputo, the soft Sofia and then the last tune, a rip roaring On the Spot. It was a great night out despite the venue and that is down to David and his Band. Come back soon David, but to another venue.
ukbazza
One of the Greatest Sax Artists plays in a shack
Ronnie Scott’s May be one of the Oldest Jazz Clubs in the world but I wish for the fans sake artists would boycott it.
It’s overpriced and you are packed in so tight that it makes airline coach class a breeze, not the most likely place to enjoy world class Jazz in any sort of comfort but some how David Sanborn did just that despite the cramped seating.
He was on stage for over 90 spellbinding minutes with an outstanding band comprising of Wycliffe Gordon- trombone, Billy Kilson- drums, Andy Ezrin- keys, Ben Williams- bass and boy did the Jazz flow. In some senses it was a Michael Brecker night since for of the seven tunes set were Brecker compositions
ukbazza
#Phenominal#
Last night was my first time seeing David Sanborn or Al Jareau in concert. I was so excited I began to hyper-ventilate. In their true fashion they delivered a phenomial show!! David seduced my passion with Maputo, while Al molested my spirit with Mornin'.. In my opinion, the concert attendees didn't cut loose and allow themselves to show our graceful host their appreciation of " their wonderful performance. (@_@)
sonya-brown-wilson
Great show. I wasn't familiar with Koz's playing, but he played great, held his own with the masterful David Sanborn.
The band was tight as could be, the show upbeat and full of energy. We will definitely go see these guys again when they return to this area.
longterm
The show was outstanding, David Sonborn was on my bucket list and he did not disappoint, I have all of his albums , but there's nothing like live music . Dave Koz was great also . Next , George Benson , I saw Norman Brown in May . Thanks Songkick !!!
rod-lomas
David Sanborn did a phenomenal job along with Marcus Miller & Bob James & the rest of the band & 1 of the greatest moments was when they surprised the audience with more great music when the show was winding down & every1 was thinking it was over!
rickcorey00
