Saxophonist Extraordinaire
Boney James

One of the most successful instrumental artists of our time, with sales totaling over three million records, saxophonist Boney James popularized  the style of music known as urban jazz. This rich amalgam of contemporary jazz, R&B and more recently elements of hip-hop is rapidly replacing earlier styles of smooth jazz that were lacking the grit and funk personified in urban jazz. Boney’s significant contribution to the style has earned him four certified gold albums, three Grammy nominations, a Soul Train Award and an NAACP Image Award nomination.

Inspired by the warmly elegant jazz/pop sound of Grover Washington Jr., James honed his craft with long stints touring as a sideman with Morris Day, The Isley Brothers, Randy Crawford and Bobby Caldwell. With Paul Brown producing, he released his first album as a leader, “Trust” in 1992. It’s been a long, successful ride to the top of the charts and many accolades since then.

You can meet him and enjoy his music in person when Boney co-hosts The Smooth Jazz Cruise West Coast edition October 12-19, 2013. The greatest party at sea will be jammin’ when Boney James takes the stage. Click the player and you’ll hear Boney talk about his life, his music and the Smooth Jazz Cruise. Visit Boney James’ website here.