
Tenor saxophonist MELVIN BUTLER began playing in Eddie Baker’s New Breed Orchestra, a group in which saxophonist and fellow Kansas City native Bobby Watson was often featured. While a student at Berklee College of Music, Melvin won the coveted Boston Jazz Society Award. In 1993 he caught the attention of jazz vocalist Betty Carter and performed with her trio at Carnegie Hall during the JVC Jazz Festival. Melvin has also worked with Donald Byrd, Christian McBride, Eric Essix, and Magali Souriau, among others. Since 1997 he has toured and recorded with Brian Blade and the Fellowship Band. Melvin’s musical career has also encompassed numerous recordings and performances throughout the Francophone Caribbean, working with celebrated Haitian konpa group, Tabou Combo. He moved to Chicago in 2008 to become an Assistant Professor of Music at the University of Chicago but continues performing around the country. Completing Melvin’s quartet are JUSTIN DILLARD, keyboard; JAKE VINSEL, acoustic bass; and DANA HALL, drums.
Video
Watch Melvin Butler perform at the 2011 Hyde Park Jazz Festival in Chicago:
*Please note: Video samples do not necessarily represent HPJF lineup.
Website: http://flavors.me/melvinbutler
