September 2024 — Jackiem Joyner is a multitalented contemporary saxophonist, author, and music producer who has been captivating audiences for nearly two decades. a number one jazz album, several Billboard chart-topping hits, and a series of critically acclaimed books to his name, he has successfully applied his creative talents across artistic mediums.

Saxophonist Jackiem

Jackiem was born in Norfolk, VA. At an early age, he began to show signs of the restless creativity that would later define his career. Despite his humble upbringing, he was able to get his hands on a saxophone as a child. The instrument quickly became his constant companion.

After years of practice, he emerged in style with 2007’s ‘Babysoul.’ A masterclass in seductive smooth jazz, the album marked the arrival of a brilliant instrumentalist, and set the stage for a prolific recording career that would include Grammy runner ups, hit singles, and no shortage of critical adoration, right up through 2019’s ‘Touch’, and on to 2020’s EP “Journey of Passion”.

As a performer, he has toured over 30 countries and performed with the likes of the late George Duke, Marcus Miller, Keiko Matsui, Donnie McClurkin, Angela Bofill, Najee, Kirk Whalum, Peter White, and many others.

Author Jackiem

While his career as a recording artist and performer would be enough to keep anyone busy, Jackiem has been nearly as prolific as an author. His novels, which span from gritty urban thrillers to highly imaginative science fiction have garnered praise from all around the world.

In 2019, Jackiem Joyner earned the Silver Literary Titan Book Award for his debut novel, “Zarya: Cydnus Final Hope.” In 2023 interview with Topshelf Magazine, Joyner describes his writing style as fresh, adventurous and mysterious.
That approach comes through in both his music and his writing. In his website blog, Jackiem makes a comparison of writing music to writing a story. “When I compose a melody, each note carries a distinct flavor, adding depth and dimension to the song. It’s not so different from writing. In fact, it’s precisely how I sculpt characters in my stories. Each character, like a musical note, brings their unique color to the narrative symphony.”

Middle C Jazz is thrilled to again share Jackiem’s musical storytelling for his return visit this Friday and Saturday, October 4-5. Tickets.

Livestream: If you can’t be there in person, you can still enjoy Jackiem Joyner’s October 5 6:15pm performance via Middle C On Demand. Learn more.

More about Jackiem Joyner:
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