Vol. 14 No. 1 (2023)
Articles

Revisiting Kenny G (Colloquy): Aesthetic Abjection - Kenny G From the Saxophonists’ Perspective

Adrianne Honnold
Lewis University
Bio

Published 2023-05-30

How to Cite

Honnold, A. (2023). Revisiting Kenny G (Colloquy): Aesthetic Abjection - Kenny G From the Saxophonists’ Perspective. Journal of Jazz Studies, 14(1), 47–58. https://doi.org/10.14713/jjs.v14i1.249

Abstract

Saxophonists have a complicated relationship with Kenny G. His presence as the public face of the instrument is often contested by members of the saxophone community for a variety of reasons ranging from doubts about his authenticity and integrity to a perception of his lack of taste and skill, which has resulted in a form of aesthetic abjection of him and his music. Through a brief exploration of historical contexts, narratives from community members, and a survey of some of his career choices, this essay aims to illustrate that the saxophonists’ rejection of Kenny G serves to diminish the public’s understanding of the instrument’s significance.