Kenny G: A Smooth Jazz Legend Reflects

Kenny G, the iconic saxophonist known for his smooth melodies, has sold over 75 million records and earned four Grammy Awards. In a recent interview, he expressed gratitude for having achieved stardom before the rise of streaming, which he claims pays artists very little, except for a select few superstars.

Navigating the New Music Landscape

The 69-year-old musician humorously noted that he might need a ‘day job’ to stay profitable. He reminisced fondly about the days when CDs were the norm and artists thrived on album sales rather than digital streams.

Live Performances: A Key to Profit

For Kenny G, live shows are essential moneymakers. He’s set to take the stage in Singapore soon, marking his return two years after his last performance and later heading to Malaysia for more shows.

A Phenomenon in Asia

Kenny G enjoys immense popularity in Asia, particularly in China, where his 1990 hit 'Going Home' is often played to signal the closing time in businesses. He credits his musical success to the deep, melodic connections people make with his songs.

Melodies That Connect Across Cultures

In reflecting on why his music resonates so profoundly in Asia, Kenny G noted the region's preference for melody-driven tunes. He believes that because he loves Asian melodies, his music naturally translates well, creating a universal connection.

Not Threatened by AI

When it comes to the advent of AI in music, Kenny G remains unfazed. He asserts that while technology has its place in enhancing music quality, nothing compares to the authentic sound produced by a human playing a saxophone.

Embracing Modern Trends

Kenny also acknowledges the importance of adapting to newer trends, such as creating short clips for platforms like TikTok. He sees this as a viable strategy that could be beneficial in maintaining relevance.

A Candid Take on Music Rights

On the topic of selling music rights, Kenny G revealed that while he's open to offers, they would need to be substantial for him to consider selling. He proudly owns all of his music and wouldn't part with it lightly.

In his words, if someone came along with an offer of US$100 million, he’d jump at the chance!