Boney James, a Grammy-winning saxophonist, shares his musical journey blending jazz, R&B, and funk. He recounts his early days as a sideman and the humorous origin of his nickname. Boney discusses his growth as an artist, the influence of mentorship, and the challenges he faced in gaining radio traction. He also highlights his latest album, 'Slow Burn,' and his collaboration with October London on the charting single, 'All I Want Is You,' shedding light on the dynamic nature of musical expression.
Boney James emphasizes the impact of early musical influences on his career, particularly his father's connections and the introduction to various instruments.
He highlights the importance of perseverance and authenticity in the face of genre snobbery within the jazz community, fostering his unique sound.
James expresses a strong desire for collaboration with emerging artists to nurture future talent and continue evolving within the music landscape.
Deep dives
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The Journey of Boney James
Boney James, a prominent saxophonist and musician, discusses his early memories of music in his household, influenced by his father's work at Columbia Records. Despite initially picking up the clarinet, his passion for the saxophone grew when he recognized the performance opportunities it offered. Throughout his career, James has collaborated with renowned artists and developed a distinct sound rooted in R&B and jazz. His dedication to music continues as he strives to improve and evolve as an artist.
Influences and Musical Growth
James reflects on the artists that shaped his musical identity, drawing inspiration from R&B legends and instrumentalists. He holds Grover Washington Jr. in high regard, admiring his ability to blend jazz with accessible melodies. Throughout his formative years, less traditional jazz styles and the radio's influence steered him toward more melodic compositions. This trajectory highlights how personal experiences and tastes can dictate an artist's creative direction.
Navigating the Jazz Landscape
Boney James acknowledges the complex dynamics within the jazz community, particularly the snobbery surrounding genres. He emphasizes focusing on personal growth rather than comparing himself to other musicians. Despite facing challenges, he maintains a commitment to creating music that resonates with audiences, distinguishing his sound in the contemporary jazz scene. His success reflects the importance of perseverance and authenticity in pursuing one’s artistic vision.
Collaborations and Future Aspirations
Over the years, James has worked with a variety of artists, expanding his musical repertoire and enhancing his live performances. He expresses an eagerness to pursue more collaborations, noting the exciting possibilities that arise from blending different musical styles. His desire to connect with emerging artists indicates a commitment to nurturing the next generation of musicians. Looking ahead, Boney James aspires to continue offering fresh contributions to the music landscape, remaining open to new experiences.
Boney James joins Questlove Supreme to discuss his journey playing Jazz, Soul, R&B, and Funk. The Grammy Award-winning saxophonist recalls his days playing other instruments as a sideman (and delivering pizzas) to build towards becoming a leader in his space. Boney recalls his upbringing outside of New York City, his time touring with Morris Day, and how he earned his unique stage name. James also describes some of the new ground he's breaking on his latest album, Slow Burn, including his radio-charting single with October London, "All I Want Is You."