Stabe Wilson

Stabe Wilson: A Saxophonist Extraordinaire

Passionate, soul-stirring, and eclectic—these adjectives perfectly capture the essence of saxophonist Stabe Wilson's musical journey. Hailing from Oakland, California, Stabe's love affair with the saxophone began at the tender age of ten. By eleven, after a captivating performance at his father's church, he knew his calling was to share his extraordinary talent with the world. 

Stabe honed his craft studying music at Chabot Community College, College of Alameda, and San Francisco State University. At the College of Alameda, he had the privilege of being part of the Big Band under the legendary jazz pianist Bill Bell, which further shaped his musical foundation.

Diverse Musical Influences: 

Stabe draws inspiration from a vast array of musical genres, including gospel, jazz, soul, and R&B. His influences range from traditional jazz saxophonists like Hank Crawford, David “Fat Head” Newman, and Stanley Turrentine to contemporary greats such as David Sanborn, Kirk Whalum, Gerald Albright, Michael Brecker, and Everette Harp. Blues legends B.B. King and Bobby “Blue” Bland, as well as the vocal stylings of Nancy Wilson, Ray Charles, and gospel artist Daryl Coley, have also significantly impacted his unique style and song interpretation.

Remarkable Collaborations: 

Stabe's illustrious career includes performances with some of the world's most renowned recording artists. In the jazz realm, he has shared the stage with Gerald Albright, Jonathan Butler, Pete Escovedo, Everette Harp, Najee, and Kirk Whalum. His R&B collaborations feature iconic names like Billy Preston, El DeBarge, Will Downing, Howard Hewett, Phyllis Hyman, India.Arie, Melba Moore, New Kids On The Block, and Lenny Williams. In gospel music, he has played alongside Rev. James Cleveland, Daryl Coley, Edwin Hawkins, Tramaine Hawkins, Walter Hawkins, John P. Kee, and LaShun Pace.

Band Leadership and Community Engagement: 

In addition to his solo work, Stabe leads the Stabe Wilson Band, which has graced numerous stages, including Oakland’s Art & Soul Festival, the City of Oakland Sunday in the Redwoods Concert Series, and the KBLX Stone Soul Concert. The band’s dynamic mix of Rhythm, Jazz, and blues styles has made them the “go-to” band for events hosted by the California Association of Black Lawyers, Kaiser Permanente, Oakland Police Department, City of Oakland, and various wineries and festivals across California and beyond.

Accolades and Recognition:  

Stabe's exceptional talent has been recognized with several awards, including the 2012 Saxophonist of the Year by the West Coast Blues Hall of Fame and the 1995 Saxophonist of the Year by the National Gospel Academy.

Whether performing as the leader of the Stabe Wilson Band or backing up established recording artists in an intimate venue, arena, or spirit-filled church, one thing is certain—your ears are in for a pleasurable musical journey while Stabe Wilson is in command of his saxophone. His legacy of excellence continues to inspire and resonate with audiences worldwide, solidifying his place as a master saxophonist.

Stabe Wilson's new single, "One Love," marks the launch of Infinitive Vibes, an indie music collective dedicated to fostering generational wealth through shared equity and diverse musical releases. Featuring both vocalist Brenda Roy and Wilson's soulful saxophone, the track offers a lush, romantic melody backed by jazzy horns and a rousing choir. This release is a must-listen for fans of smooth jazz, gospel, and R&B, celebrating love, unity, and musical excellence.

Awards

Saxophonist of the Year: West Coast Blues Hall of Fame & National Gospel Academy

Gear

YAMAHA YSS-82Z CUSTOM PROFESSIONAL SOPRANO SAXOPHONE

I also record on a 62R Soprano sax with a Beechler Soprano mouthpiece.

YANAGISAWA SAXOPHONES

I play their 991 Black Alto Sax and the black lacquer 991 Tenor Sax (mid-90s vintage). They are both very durable instruments and play effortlessly through the whole stack and have impeccable tones in their own right. And I play the Leblanc Bari Sax which is an early Yanagisawa. 

BEECHLER MOUTHPIECES

I use the Beechler Custom Jazz Alto C95 and the Beechler Custom Bellite Alto #7. On tenor sax I use a custom mouthpiece they made for me. It's about a size 8 with special treatment on the tip and in the chamber. Judy Beechler and her staff are very knowledgeable and are always eager to help you find what works well for you and your music. 

AKAI PROFESSIONAL

This is the maker of the EWI 4000s I'm currently using. 

DAVE GUARDALA SAXOPHONES

I play the New York Series Alto and both the Earthtone and Pro-Custom on Tenor