United States
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David William Sanborn
Tampa, United States
Archival Overview
Six-time Grammy Award-winning American alto saxophonist whose searing, passionate tone bridged jazz, pop, blues, and rock, famously soloing on David Bowie's "Young Americans" and releasing landmark solo albums.
Biographical Record
David William Sanborn was born in Tampa, Florida, and raised in Kirkwood, Missouri. After contracting polio as a child, he took up the alto saxophone as therapeutic treatment to strengthen his lungs, developing a powerful, emotionally charged attack that would become one of the most recognizable instrumental signatures in contemporary music.
Sanborn performed at Woodstock in 1969 with the Paul Butterfield Blues Band before becoming a first-call studio legend. His searing solo on David Bowie's 1975 anthem "Young Americans" cemented his status, followed by historic collaborations with Stevie Wonder, Miles Davis, James Brown, and Chaka Khan. As a solo artist, Sanborn released 24 albums, won six Grammy Awards, and hosted the groundbreaking television music program Night Music, introducing millions of viewers to eclectic avant-garde and world musicians.
Key Life Milestones
Iconic Solo on David Bowie's Young Americans
Delivered the memorable, soulful saxophone lead on Bowie's Young Americans album, establishing his signature sound.
First Grammy Award for All I Need Is You
Won the Grammy Award for Best R&B Instrumental Performance, launching an era of six career Grammy victories.
Memorial Guestbook & Tributes
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Final Resting Place
Perpetual MemorialSleepy Hollow, United States