Revisiting Kenny G (Colloquy)

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.