Saxophonist Najee recently signed to crossover jazz label Heads Up International and will release his debut album on his new label in August 2005. Already the recipient of two platinum and four gold albums, Najee has established his place among jazz circles since his debut album Najee’s Theme was nominated for a Grammy in 1987.
Najee began his career in his hometown of New York, first playing clarinet and later saxophone and flute. He studied at the New England Conservatory of Music in Boston, with a concentration in performance and composition. He is the recipient of several awards, including the Soul Train Music Award for Best Jazz Artist in 1991 and 1993, and has worked with artists such as Quincy Jones, Patti LaBelle and Lionel Richie. He also performed as a special guest artist on the “Hit and Run” tour with Prince.
“I am extremely excited to join the Heads Up team,” Najee said in a press release. “I am very impressed with their commitment to support great music and great artists. I am looking forward to what I believe will be an extremely rewarding creative experience.”
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