Just announced! DownBeat Critics Poll: Lakecia Benjamin – 3rd place Alto Saxophone, 2nd place Rising Star Jazz Artist. Winner: Rising Star Flute and Rising Star Arranger.

Dynamic saxophonist Lakecia Benjamin fuses traditional conceptions of jazz, hip hop and soul.

Named Rising Star Alto Saxophonist in the 2020 Downbeat Critics Poll and that year’s Up and Coming Artist of the Year by the Jazz Journalists Association, Lakecia Benjamin’s electric presence and fiery sax work has inspired invitations to share the stage with legendary artists including Stevie Wonder, Alicia Keys and The Roots.

Her most recent recording is the expansive Phoenix, recorded with a six-piece band and a star-studded lineup of guests. “The wide sense of adventure on Phoenix,” says All Music, “reveals Benjamin as ambitious as she is focused, energetic and perceptive.”

“The alto saxophonist Lakecia Benjamin plays jazz that is sprinkled with the rich flavors of funk and soul — she’s a crafty traditionalist who remains in step with the rhythms of the young generation.” — The New Yorker

“Equally melodic and assertive, her sound feels rooted in tradition, yet broad enough to encompass R&B and Latin music; its pronounced funk suggests allegiances to hip-hop and dance.” — The New York Times

Sponsored in part by the City of Houston through the Miller Theatre Advisory Board.