Jeff Kashiwa, 2X Grammy-nominated Contemporary Jazz Saxophonist

Jeff Kashiwa is known for his energetic and inspired solos, performing music with infectious grooves and inspired melodies.

 

Kashiwa gained prominence in 1989 as a member of the fusion jazz group The Rippingtons and performed with them for a decade, appearing on many of their classic recordings. In 2004, he co-founded The Sax Pack, a saxophone trio that also features Steve Cole and Kim Waters.

 

Kashiwa has released over a dozen solo albums, consistently debuting in the Top 10 on Billboard’s Contemporary Jazz chart. His 13th solo album, Luminoso (2024), has received significant critical acclaim as a “bold exploration” and a “refreshing left turn” for the artist. A collaborative project with Jeff Volkman, the album beautifully adapts the compositions of Brazilian luminary Joyce Moreno for saxophones and flutes.

 

Building on this momentum into 2025 and 2026, Kashiwa has expanded his artistry through new ventures like the ambient improv series The Bleu Zone and a string of recent guest singles—including the 2026 track “Say Something Sexy” with Contessa Blue—that showcase his signature versatility.As a performer, he has appeared on two Grammy-nominated albums: Aart by Acoustic Alchemy in 2001, and Modern Art by The Rippingtons in 2009. Both albums were nominated for Best Pop Instrumental Album and demonstrate the breadth and longevity of his talent.