For the last several decades, jazz has essentially been a niche genre, long past its heyday and followed by a devoted but relatively small fan base, at least compared to rock and pop and country music. But saxophonist Kenny G has been an exception to the rule, an artist playing jazz music in an accessible, audience-friendly way that has made him one of the best-selling recording artists of all time, and given him the chance to collaborate with top stars in a range of musical genres.
From the beginning of his career, Kenny G has worked to reach beyond the jazz genre: his self-titled 1982 debut album features an instrumental cover of the Eagles’ “I Can’t Tell You Why” alongside its various original compositions. Over the years, Kenny G has worked with artists such as Dionne Warwick, Aretha Franklin, Barbra Streisand, Burt Bacharach, Weezer and Foster the People. His most recent album, last year’s Brazilian Nights, is a tribute to Brazilian bossa nova created with the same smooth, easy approach he brings to all his music. It’s jazz for the masses, and the masses are still listening. –Josh Bell
The Venetian, 8 p.m. April 1, starting at $49.95 plus tax and fee. 702.414.9000
