David Sanborn
USA, 1967–2024
American alto saxophonist (1945–2024) whose vocal, blues-drenched tone became the most imitated sound in pop and smooth jazz. A ubiquitous session player (David Bowie's 'Young Americans', Stevie Wonder) and Grammy-winning solo artist, he shaped generations of saxophonists.
MusicRoots documents 2 artists who influenced David Sanborn and 1 artist David Sanborn influenced in turn. Every connection cites a published source.
Who influenced David Sanborn?
- Hank Crawford — Sanborn was enamoured with Hank Crawford's sound and adapted his elegant, direct, blues-drenched tone as the very foundation of his own signature alto voice.
- Ray Charles — The gospel-and-R&B blend of the Ray Charles band — where Sanborn's idol Hank Crawford was musical director — was a deep influence on Sanborn's soulful playing.
Which artists did David Sanborn influence?
- Candy Dulfer — David Sanborn's vocal, blues-drenched alto tone — the defining pop-jazz saxophone sound — was a central influence on Dulfer's crossover style.