Brent Birckhead

Brent Birckhead is an alto saxophonist whose playing draws on both the jazz tradition and the popular styles of soul and R&B. A product of the Washington, D.C. jazz scene, he studied at Howard University, earning bachelor's and master's degrees in music, and was recognized by DownBeat magazine with awards for jazz and pop soloing. He toured as a member of Lauryn Hill's band and has also shared stages with artists including Nas, SWV, and George Duke. In 2019 he released his debut album, BIRCKHEAD, following it with Cacao in 2024. The New York Times has called him one of the most riveting young improvisers in New York, and he has taught saxophone at the Baltimore School for the Arts and Morgan State University.