Willie Morris

St. Louis native and New York-based saxophonist and composer Willie Morris emerges as a fresh and exciting force on the jazz scene. With a deep-rooted appreciation for the Black-American art forms that have flourished in his city, he brings a dynamic and unique perspective to his craft.

In this early stage of his career, Willie has already been blessed with remarkable opportunities that have allowed him to perform and record alongside a distinguished lineup of artists. Collaborating with esteemed musicians such as Randy Brecker, John Clayton, John Swana, Byron Landham, Jason Marsalis, Montez Coleman, Josh Lawrence, Donald Edwards, Boris Kozlov, Rudy Royston, and Jon Davis, among others, Willie has had the privilege of immersing himself in diverse musical settings that have expanded his artistic horizons.

A testament to his extraordinary talent, Willie's debut album, Conversation Starter (Posi-Tone 2023), served as a platform for showcasing his exceptional abilities. Teaming up with an exceptional band consisting of Patrick Cornelius, Jon Davis, Adi Meyerson, and EJ Strickland, the album embodied the depth and range of Willie's musical prowess. Through his soulful saxophone melodies and innovative compositions, Willie delivered a captivating listening experience that resonated with audiences on a profound level.

Willie continues carving his path with the release of his sophomore album Attentive Listening (Posi-Tone 2024), embarking on an immersive sonic journey and exploring the concepts of "Attentive Listening" with his own unmatched blend of virtuosity and emotion. From the thoughtful balance of lively and spirited tunes juxtaposed against the contemplative, soul-stirring pieces, the entire program of "Attentive Listening" is an ingenuous testament to Morris's sincere dedication to his own pursuit of maturity and musical mastery. Collaborating with the stellar rhythm section of pianist Jon Davis, bassist Boris Kozlov and drummer Rudy Royston, Morris effortlessly crafts an auditory landscape that captivates, inspires, and leaves an indelible mark on the listener which lingers in the heart and mind long after the last note fades away.

Tags