Artists
Jay Kim
EquipmentA-WO20, T-WO20, SN-981 Elimona
A Maestro of saxophone and Music Direction from South Korea
Jay Kim stands as a towering figure in the world of music, both as South Korea's leading saxophonist and a versatile music director whose influence spans across genres and borders. As an official artist for Yanagisawa, a testament to his exceptional talent and craftsmanship, Jay Kim has carved a niche for himself in the global music scene.
Since 2011, Jay Kim has been the backbone of SNL Korea, serving as the Music Director and saxophonist from Season 1 to the present, showcasing his versatility and dedication to music. His saxophone performances have graced the tracks of numerous renowned artists, including Naul's 'Guiro', Jay Park's 'So Good' and 'Joah', and Loco's 'Too Much', earning him widespread recognition and acclaim.
In 2005, Jay Kim introduced his first contemporary jazz saxophone album,
'Tenderness', followed by 'Perfect Experience' in 2011. The latter, completed
in the United States, featured the collaborative genius of Jeff Lorber, a
producer known for is work with Kenny G and Dave Koz, delivering an
unparalleled sound experience. For this project, Kim did not hesitate to invest
significantly, working with legendary engineer
Bill Schnee in North Hollywood and finishing the album at Doug Sax's The Mastering
Lab, aiming for perfection not just in music but in sound quality as well. 'Malibu
Drive', the title track of 'Perfect Experience', was inspired by the
breathtaking views and weather on the way to Lorber's home studio,
encapsulating the refreshing essence of a drive along the West
Coast.
In 2023, Jay Kim released his third studio album, 'Sound of Life', further solidifying his position as a leading figure in contemporary jazz and music direction.
Beyond his solo career, Jay Kim has made significant contributions as a music director in films ('High Heel', 'We Are Brothers', 'Happy Together', 'Castaway on the Moon', 'LaLa Sisters'), dramas ('The Sound of Your Heart', 'A Gentleman's Dignity', 'Checkmate'), and musicals ('Altar Boyz', 'I Loved You', 'On Air Secret Contract', 'Jeong Yak-yong', 'Jeongjo', 'One Day', 'December'). His work extends to directing music for plays ('Clumsy People', 'Ice', 'The Secret of Flowers', '12 Angry People') and various advertisements, including IKEA and China CCTV, showcasing his unparalleled versatility and creativity.
Selected as the general music director for the Incheon Asian Games' opening and closing ceremonies in 2014, Jay Kim's multifaceted talent and contributions to the music industry have not gone unnoticed. Jay Kim is also known as a member of the R&B duo group Urbano, and as the leader of the soul & funk group Common Ground.
With over 14,000 subscribers on YouTube, he remains one of the most influential and espected music directors and saxophonists in South Korea, a true maestro whose work continues to inspire and resonate across the globe.