JD Allen, born John Daniel Allen III on December 11, 1972, in Detroit, Michigan, is a renowned American jazz tenor saxophonist and composer. Hailed by the New York Times as “a tenor saxophonist with an enigmatic, elegant and hard-driving style,” Allen has established himself as one of the most thoughtful and compelling jazz saxophonists on the contemporary jazz scene.
Allen’s career took off at the age of twenty when legendary jazz singer Betty Carter hired him. This opportunity paved the way for collaborations with numerous jazz luminaries, including Lester Bowie, George Cables, Ron Carter, Jack DeJohnette, Frank Foster, Louis Hayes, Butch Morris and David Murray. He has also worked with contemporaries such as Cindy Blackman, Dave Douglas, Geri Allen, Meshell Ndegeocello and Wallace Rooney.
Throughout his career, Allen has garnered numerous accolades. He has been named “Rising Star” in DownBeat’s Critic’s Poll and has received “Top 10 Album of the Year” honours in over 25 publications worldwide. His albums have consistently earned “Album of the Year” awards in various critics’ polls and notable publications such as the New York Times, The Atlantic, NPR, and Downbeat Magazine.
Full profile: https://mmm-ltd.co.uk/our-artist-j-d-allen/
