I’ve been playing saxophone since I was six years old. From the moment my big brother let me honk out that first glorious note on his saxophone, this instrument has been a constant part of my life. I am a firm believer in the philosophy that music is best enjoyed in all its varieties, and that belief is very evident in my musical influences.

As a child, I was very active in my school’s music programs: orchestra, marching band, jazz ensemble...whatever gave me an opportunity to play my sax. Even at that young age, I got a rush of excitement as I heard that wonderful wall of sound created by the players around me. It amazed me to be a part of this magical experience of making music and I couldn’t get enough of it.

After years of playing classical and jazz music in school bands, I discovered the blues as a college student at Texas A&M. This wonderfully expressive form of music touched my soul and I knew I had to play more of it. I hooked up with a guitarist buddy of mine and my first blues band, Worn Out Souls, was born. We played just about every live music venue in the Bryan/College Station area and developed a strong following.

In 1992, I was invited to join Jr. Medlow & Tornado Alley, a high-energy blues and soul band based in Austin, Texas. We performed all over Texas to crowds ranging in size from 50 to 5,000 people. I credit this band for a large part of my influence as a soloist and a section player.

I moved to Austin in 1994, where I continued to perform with Jr. Medlow & Tornado Alley. During my time in Austin, I also had the pleasure of performing with Jesse “Guitar” Taylor, Uncle John Turner, Keith Ferguson, Sugar Dave Hale, Brian Robertson, and Hot Wax. I immersed myself in the Austin music scene and played as much as possible, wherever I had an opportunity.

I’ve been in Houston since 2002, and I’m thrilled to be a part of the vibrant music scene that this city has to offer. I have performed with many great artists and bands in Houston as well: Jeremiah Johnson & The Texas Alligators, the Kashmere Reunion Stage Band, Traffic Jam, Spare Parts, August 83, Us And Them, Bobby Mack, and Odell Gray & The House Rules Band. I currently play with the Keeshea Pratt Band.

Got a question or comment you want to share with me? Go to my Contact page and shoot me a message. While you’re there, you can sign up for my mailing list. See you at the show!

Photographer: Ron Fontenot