Get ready to feel the groove: Kirk Whalum brings soulful jazz performance to Mzansi

Get ready for a soulful encounter like no other as American Grammy Award-winning saxophonist Kirk Whalum is set to perform live in South Africa on May 16 at the Theatre of Marcellus, Emperors Palace. 

Audiences can expect an evening with Whalum that promises to be a musical experience that transcends borders and touches hearts.

With a career spanning nearly four decades, the legend has established himself as a master of his craft, blending contemporary jazz, gospel, and R&B to create a unique sound that resonates with audiences worldwide.

His distinguished career includes collaborations with music legends like Luther Vandross, Whitney Houston, Barbra Streisand, and Quincy Jones, as well as Grammy-winning performances and over 25 albums under his own name.

The artist’s music is characterised by his warm tone, emotive phrasing, and genre-bending brilliance, which has captivated fans across the globe. Many may recall his iconic solo on the late Whitney Houston’s iconic “I Will Always Love You”, a moment that forever changed the landscape of modern ballads.

When asked about what South African audiences can expect at his show, Whalum shared that he is super excited to be performing some songs from his latest album "Epic Cool", which was released in 2024.

This live performance promises to be an intimate and spiritual experience, with Whalum’s soulful sound wrapping around gospel hymns and soaring through chart-topping pop anthems.

The seasoned musician has a special connection with South Africa, having first visited the country in 1994 with Whitney Houston. 

Pointing to a Basotho blanket in the background, he shared a story about that visit, “The first time I was there was back in 1994, I was playing with my boss Whitney Houston and she was excited, we were excited, Nelson Mandela was excited.”

He added that his expectation of coming to South Africa in 2025 has a lot to do with the way he first arrived.

When asked about local artists who inspire him, Whalum mentioned gospel and jazz artists Jonathan Butler and Jonathan Rubain, saying that Africa has taken over the music industry. 

“I don’t know if you’ve noticed,” he noted.

He also expressed his eagerness to experience more South African artists and explore possible collaborations during his visit.

As for what Whalum is most looking forward to about performing in South Africa, he said:  “It’s going to seem very shallow and I apologise ahead of time, I’m looking forward to the food. I’ll start the morning out with boba tea and Rooibos."

He raved about the variety of food in South Africa, saying there is global cuisine as much as there is traditional food. Fun fact? His favourite South African dish is the Durban bunny chow!