Craig Handy
Craig Handy is a legendary American saxophonist celebrated for his powerful tone, technical brilliance, and deep versatility across jazz, blues, and beyond. Born in Oakland, California in 1962, Handy began playing saxophone at the age of 11 and later studied music at North Texas State University, one of the country's premier jazz programs. By his early 20s, he had already begun performing with jazz luminaries including Art Blakey, Wynton Marsalis, and Roy Haynes.
Handy gained international attention in the 1980s as a standout member of drummer Elvin Jones’s Jazz Machine and the Mingus Dynasty Band. He later became a first-call musician in New York City, known for his ability to bring both swing and soul to every performance. His playing blends deep-rooted bebop traditions with a modern, adventurous sensibility—earning him the respect of peers and critics alike.
In addition to his work as a sideman, Handy has led several acclaimed bands of his own, including Craig Handy & 2nd Line Smith, a funk-infused tribute to organist Jimmy Smith and New Orleans groove. His recordings as a bandleader showcase his remarkable range, from straight-ahead jazz to hard bop, blues, and Afro-Cuban influences.
