FREE | Saturday, Sept 20, 2025 TBD p.m. | Forsyth Park

His Memphis, TN gospel roots and big 1980’s initiation into the thriving Houston, TX nightclub scene have forged Kirk Whalum’s unique big, rich tenor sound.  “Discovered” by jazz pianist, Bob James, in Houston, he brought Whalum on tour with him which lead to five successful albums with Columbia Records. including Cache, Kirk’s first #1 album.  He is a 12-time GRAMMY Award nominee and his song, “It’s What I Do” won the 2011 GRAMMY Award for Best Gospel Song.

Kirk became an in-demand session player for legends including Barbara Streisand, Al Jarreau, Luther Vandross, Quincy Jones, and most notably, Whitney Houston.  It is his sax that is heard on Houston’s mega-hit “I Will Always Love You.”

An ordained minister, Kirk earned an M.A. degree in Religion, and in this spirit, he serves his community when his touring schedule allows.  He hosts a daily 15-minute podcast, “Bible In Your Ear”.  He also serves as a music professor at Visible Music College in his hometown of Memphis.