Kim Waters, a chart-topping saxophonist renowned for his contributions to Contemporary Jazz, has long been a driving force in music. His unmistakable tone, smooth melodies, and masterful fusion of Jazz, R&B, Blues, and Pop have earned him a loyal fanbase and numerous accolades throughout his three-and-a-half-decade career. A Maryland native now based in Georgia, Waters' musical journey has led him to collaborate with icons such as Al Green, Isaac Hayes, Patti LaBelle, and Gerald Albright, among many others.
"Music Brings Us Together" – The Philosophy of Kim Waters
As Kim Waters reflects on his career, he states, “The one thing in the world that people cannot discriminate, argue or bicker about is music. Music brings people together, fosters camaraderie, and is essential for peace, joy, and happiness.” His admiration for the power of music runs deep, and it’s this love that fuels his career, shaping the soundtracks of generations. Waters attributes much of his success to his early influences, which include saxophone legends like Sonny Stitt, Cannonball Adderley, Charlie Parker, Stanley Turrentine, and his friend Grover Washington Jr. For him, the saxophone is about romance, beauty, and the purity of melody.
"Time 2 Groove" – The Highly Anticipated New Album
Kim Waters’ new album, Time 2 Groove, set to release on April 11, 2025, is packed with original compositions and shows off his incredible skills on the alto and soprano saxophones. This is Waters’ first album recorded after the COVID-19 pandemic, marking a return to normalcy for the artist and allowing him the freedom to record and tour without restrictions.
The opening track, The Pacemaker, blends funk and Go-Go music influences with energetic, infectious grooves. Waters recalls his deep-rooted connection to the Go-Go sound, saying, “That Go-Go vibe will never die. There’s something about that groove that makes people move.” The album features collaborations with renowned pianist and producer Chris "Big Dog" Davis, whose work with artists like George Clinton and Maysa brings a distinct flavor to tracks such as Sax You Up and Palm City, the latter evoking the essence of a serene beach getaway.
Emotional Ballads and Heartfelt Tributes
Two standout tracks on Time 2 Groove are deeply personal for Waters. A Pure Heart (For My Mother) is a tender tribute to his mother, Brenda, whose enduring love and wisdom have shaped Waters' life. The soulful, emotional ballad is an outpouring of love and reverence, bringing a tear to the eye with its heartfelt phrasing.
Another standout track, Their Smile (Song For My Twins), celebrates his twin daughters, Kayla and Kimberly. This joyful R&B number highlights the special bond between father and daughters, with Waters expressing how his children have taught him the true meaning of love. “They have brought me so much joy,” he shares, “and have taught me just how important it is to say ‘I love you’ and to listen sincerely.”
The Sound of Love and Legacy
As the album progresses, Waters showcases his versatility with a hypnotic reinvention of The Isley Brothers' classic, I Once Had Your Love (And I Can’t Let Go), and the title track, Time 2 Groove, which carries a signature blend of funk and jazz, reminiscent of the legendary Blackbyrds. The album concludes with Just A Thought, a track where Waters explores improvisation and musical expression, showing off his creative depth and technical prowess.
A Legacy of Chart-Topping Albums
With over two dozen successful albums, including Love’s Melody, From The Heart, and Rhythm and Romance, Kim Waters continues to set the bar for Contemporary Jazz. Time 2 Groove is just the latest addition to his impressive body of work, further solidifying his place as a leader in the genre. Waters hopes his music will inspire the next generation of musicians and keep the genre alive. He praises icons like George Benson and Herbie Hancock for staying relevant and evolving with the times, something he strives to do as well.
A Philosophy of Balance and Self-Belief
Beyond his music, Waters lives a balanced and peaceful life. He credits his ability to stay grounded to his unwavering belief in himself and his philosophy of “it is what it is.” Waters also enjoys the therapeutic nature of landscaping, an outlet that helps him maintain his Zen-like approach to life.
Final Thoughts
As Kim Waters prepares to release Time 2 Groove, he remains a beacon of inspiration, both as an artist and a person. His unrelenting passion for music, his love for his family, and his commitment to evolving while staying true to his roots are the pillars that define his legacy in the world of Contemporary Jazz.