Walter beasley biography

Bio

Over the past three decades, saxophonist Walter Beasley has artfully and dynamically redefined the phrase “musical Renaissance Man” for the modern generation. Considered by fans and critics alike as the “heir to Grover Washington, Jr.’s Throne,” Beasley is the acclaimed saxophonist, vocalist, educator, and entrepreneur of the decade. As the highest selling full-time Professor/Recording Artist in history, the Boston-based musician has long mastered an exhilarating high wire act of balancing a successful career as a contemporary jazz recording artist and performer with an equally thriving presence in the field of music education. 

A leading alto and soprano saxophonist and prominent vocalist all the same, Beasley is hailed by fans for his thrilling performances along the East Coast and throughout the U.S. and Caribbean. Notable performances include the all-star tour To Grover, With Love, performing alongside Chuck Loeb, Buddy Williams and Andy Snitzer and performing as the headlining act for the Playboy Jazz Festival. 

As to the release of his latest CD/DVD project, “Live In The Club,” Beasley’s chart-topping single, “Groove In You,” debuted on the Groove Jazz Chart at #29, climbing to Top 20 on the Billboard/R&R Chart, Radiowave, , & Mediabase, earning a spot in the Top 10 on the Indie Chart. Other notable works by Beasley include his self-titled albums, Sax Meditations and Live in the Groove, both released through his Affable Publishing, as well as Free Your Mind (Heads Up), whose presence earned Beasley the Jazz Awards, and Backatcha (Shanachie Entertainment/Affable), featuring his hot single, “Lovely Day.” During , Backatcha rose to #10 on Billboard Top 50, with his single “The Call” debuting at 30 on Billboard Smooth Jazz chart and #3 Most Added in June

Since , Beasley continues to thrive at the forefront of digital media and communica

Who is Walter Beasley? A Brief Career Overview

Walter Beasley is more than just a prolific saxophonist; he's a true icon in the smooth jazz genre and a celebrated figure in the vinyl community. Remarkably, he has maintained his status as one of the highest-selling full-time professors and recording artists in modern history. As an accomplished alto and soprano saxophonist, singer, composer, and producer, he continues to captivate audiences with his rich sound and dynamic performances. Walter's work transcends music, as he founded Affable Publishing and Affable Records, further solidifying his impact on the industry.

Having released 26 albums since the late '80s, Beasley's music resonates deeply with fans of smooth jazz, blending influences of R&B and classical styles. His dedication to both teaching and performing is evident in his commitment to enhancing the musical knowledge of future generations through online classes and social media. Notably, Walter's influence extends to vinyl collectors worldwide, showcasing his remarkable ability to appeal to both casual listeners and serious audiophiles alike.

Walter Beasley's Early Life and Background

Walter Beasley was born on May 24, , in El Centro, California, into a nurturing family that emphasized the importance of culture and education. Growing up in a musical environment, he experienced the joy of playing instruments at a young age. By the age of 13, he was already singing with a local band, Los Elegantes, introducing him to the vibrant world of live performance and music-making. These early experiences ignited a lifelong passion for music, and he would constantly draw on these initial inspirations throughout his illustrious career.

The rich tapestry of Walter's background, combined with an engaging family dynamic, shaped his worldview and connection to music. Through the years, vinyl records became a cherished part of his life, deepening his appreciation f

American saxophonist and music professor

Musical artist

Walter Beasley (born May 24, ) is an American saxophonist, a professor of music at the Berklee College of Music, and founder of Affable Publishing and Affable Records.

Biography

Beasley grew up in El Centro, California. By the age of 13 he was singing in Spanish in a band called Los Elegantes, and he played in various bands and performed at clubs throughout middle and high school.

Beasley graduated from Berklee in , and a year later took a short-term teaching position at the same school, which became a permanent career. He is now a professor at the school.

In , he released his first, self-titled, album, and since has been one of the top ten best-selling African American saxophonists in the world. Having grown up as a fan of R&B and funk and trained in classical and jazz saxophone, his own style falls between contemporary R&B and contemporary jazz, a blend which has been called "smooth jazz".

He is not only an alto and soprano saxophonist and a singer, but also a composer and producer. He is the founder and CEO of Affable Publishing, and the owner of Affable Records.

Discography

Albums