With a career spanning more than three decades and twenty studio albums, Boney James continues to explore new territory while remaining rooted in the sophisticated grooves and unmistakable saxophone sound that have made him one of contemporary jazz’s most recognizable artists.
The four-time GRAMMY nominee and multi-platinum saxophonist, composer and producer has announced his new album, A Simple Man, due October 2 via Concord Records, with the vinyl edition arriving November 6.
Born in Lowell, Massachusetts, and raised in New Rochelle, New York, James began studying clarinet at the age of eight before switching to saxophone two years later. The instrument would eventually become his musical voice. Before launching his solo career, he toured and performed with artists including Morris Day, The Isley Brothers, Teena Marie, Randy Crawford and Bobby Caldwell, experiences that helped shape the distinctive blend of jazz, soul, R&B and funk that defines his work.
Produced by James, A Simple Man reflects a more personal and introspective chapter in his career. The idea behind the album grew from his desire to eliminate unnecessary distractions and focus on the things that truly matter. What began as the title of a song eventually became the philosophy behind the entire project.
“As I’ve gotten older, I’ve wanted to drop the extraneous things. The simple life is something I crave, and that spirit found its way into this album.”
That search for simplicity does not mean sacrificing musical depth. Instead, James uses the album to explore the balance between his signature sound and a more mature perspective on life and creativity.
The project also features some notable collaborations, including legendary guitarist Larry Carlton. Their partnership can be heard on “Storybook,” the first official radio release from the album, a sophisticated track with a distinctly Steely Dan-inspired character.
After twenty albums as a leader, A Simple Man finds Boney James looking inward without abandoning the musical identity that has connected him with audiences around the world. It is an album about refinement, perspective and, ultimately, getting closer to what feels essential.
