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Billboard-charting international saxophonist J. White continues to make waves in the jazz world, mesmerizing audiences with his distinctive fusion of smooth jazz, soul, and contemporary grooves. Whether through his high-energy live performances or his deep appreciation for the genre’s rich history, J. White remains a powerful voice in today’s jazz scene.

Recently, he made a special appearance on AZ TV CW7 on the Daily Mix Show, where he paid tribute to the history of jazz in New Orleans, a city synonymous with the genre’s evolution. In light of Super Bowl LVIII being held there, J. White took the opportunity to discuss jazz’s deep cultural roots, his personal influences, and the vibrant jazz scene that continues to thrive in the Crescent City. His performance on the show was not just a musical treat but a moment to honor the legacy of the greats who paved the way.

Later in the evening of February 7th, he took the stage at the Southern Soul Black History Month Program, delivering an electric performance that celebrated the contributions of Black artists in jazz and beyond. His ability to connect history with his artistry makes his performances all the more meaningful.

Looking ahead, March 13th marks another milestone as he headlines the Valley of the Sun Jazz Series in Chandler, AZ, with his band, J. White & The Dubbs. Fans can expect a night of dynamic, soul-stirring jazz as J. White and his ensemble bring their signature sound to the Valley. The excitement doesn’t stop there. J. White is also set to take the stage at the Arizona Jazz Fest, where he will perform alongside J. Brown, one of today’s hottest R&B artists. This collaboration highlights his ability to seamlessly merge jazz with contemporary influences, creating a sound that resonates across genres.

With a growing list of accolades, unforgettable performances, and a passion for both jazz’s past and future, J. White is proving that the genre is not just alive—it’s thriving. Whether honoring jazz history on national television or pushing creative boundaries on stage, he continues to be a leading force in the world of modern jazz.

I had the chance to catch up with J. White to discuss his recent successes, upcoming shows, and his passion for keeping jazz alive.

Jazz is one of the most influential musical genres in Black history, shaping culture and inspiring movements worldwide. What does jazz mean to you personally, and how do you see yourself contributing to its rich legacy?

For me personally, Jazz is the ultimate form of musical expression.  Jazz allows a musician to learn the language of rhythm, harmony and melody, while still being able to play from your heart and soul.  My contribution to Jazz is centered around my voice on Saxophone. There are so many well documented great Saxophonists.  All you can do as a jazz artist is find your specific voice and present it to the world. 

Many jazz legends—like Miles Davis, John Coltrane, and Duke Ellington—used their music to tell stories of resilience, freedom, and Black excellence. How do you use jazz as a form of expression and storytelling in your own work?

All my original music tells a story, or rather my story in some way.  Although some of my songs have no words, I always come from a personal mental space when I’m writing a song or a melody.  I take into account what I’m going through in my life at the time, and then I pick up my horn. My music can reflect happiness, sadness, swagger, and mellow vibes.  

I hear you’re originally from Detroit. How do you bring the Detroit sound to Arizona?

Phoenix is in the west and there’s a lot of neat things happening on this coast between California, and Vegas. I chose to move here because it’s a great location, it’s easy to get around, and it’s a nice city to live in. The Motown and Detroit swag is always something I like to bring through in my music. Detroit is known for its music and that’s just something I embody.

You just completed a show-stopping performance at the Shrine Auditorium in Phoenix, Arizona to kick of Black History Month. Why was this appearance important to you and what made you want to be a part of it all? 

Black Knight Productions liked what I was doing and sought me out. I was more than happy to be involved with the show for Black History Month. Living in Phoenix, Arizona, I’ve been blessed to meet a lot of people and do a lot of shows. I was booked with Southern Soul artist Big Robb and Comedian, Lamar Mitchell Jr. It was an awesome show, and the crowd loved it.

You also had a recent appearance on the Arizona Daily Mix on CW 7. On the show you discussed your upcoming, Valley of the Sun Jazz concert taking place on March 13th in Chandler, Arizona. What made you want to curate this type of show in this part of Arizona?

Well, I live in the East Valley, which encompasses Chandler, Gilbert, and Queen Creek. They’re starving for some good music out there, so I decided to start my own series called, “The Valley of the Sun” Jazz Concert Series. The first one is March 13th, and I’ll have my full band, J. White and the Dubbs, it’s going to be awesome. Tickets are on sale right now on JWhiteLive.com , come on out and have a great time.

As we celebrate Black History Month, why do you think it’s important to recognize jazz not just as a genre, but as a vital part of Black culture and history?

Jazz is one of the many forms of Black culture and American history.  I’m honored to have ancestors that were so creative and basically genius level musicians.  Jazz represents Black culture in the perfect way, as it defies the box or space many try to place you in at times.  Jazz exudes the confidence and swagger that the culture naturally has and is so often imitated. 

You have been very active with Jazz Festivals being that you did the Arizona Jazz Festival back in October, then a few weeks later you did the Mexico Jazz Experience. Coming up in March, you’ll also be doing the other Arizona Jazz Festival. How does it feel to be in high demand? 

It’s a good feeling because it’s great to be busy. A week after my concert on March 13th in Chandler, I’m performing at the Arizona Jazz Festival in Glendale, Arizona. I’ll be on stage with J. Brown, one of the hottest R&B vocalists out today. So, it’ll be J. Brown and J. White live at the Arizona Jazz Festival March 21st.

To learn more about J. White, follow him on Facebook and Instagram

Photo Credit: Courtesy of J. White