Justin Robinson
Jazz · US · Active since 1968

Justin Robinson

High-velocity alto sax that balances the fire of hard bop with a sophisticated, soulful touch. Perfect for late nights and deep focus.

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Intro

Justin Robinson delivers a sound that is both muscular and elegant, characterized by a sharp, biting alto saxophone tone that cuts through the air with authority. His music feels like the quintessential New York jazz experience: fast-paced, technically brilliant, yet deeply rooted in the bluesy warmth of the hard bop tradition. Whether he is leading a quintet or weaving through a big band arrangement, there is a palpable sense of momentum and confidence in every note.

What truly distinguishes Robinson is his ability to maintain a 'singing' quality even at blistering tempos. While his technical facility is immense, he never sacrifices soul for speed. His occasional shifts to the flute offer a softer, more ethereal counterpoint to his primary instrument, showcasing a versatility that allows him to move from aggressive, jagged improvisations to tender, late-night ballads with ease.

Start with 'In the Spur of the Moment' to hear him at his most vital and contemporary. It captures the essence of a seasoned veteran who spent years honing his craft alongside legends like Roy Hargrove, delivering a masterclass in modern acoustic jazz that feels both timeless and urgent.

Justin Robinson (born August 14, 1968) is an American jazz alto saxophonist. He has performed with artists such as Cecil Brooks III, the Harper Brothers, Abbey Lincoln, Diana Ross, Jimmy Scott, and the Carnegie Hall Jazz Band, and the Dizzy Gillespie All Star Band, and was a long-time member of the quintet and big band of trumpeter Roy Hargrove.
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Our Catalog4 Albums · 1998 · 2018
Known ForWeighted across the artist's discography. Tap a trait for examples.
Adjacent Artists
Javon Jackson
Javon Jackson

Shares hard bop, post-bop, soulful, voice as instrument (signature)

Benny Green
Benny Green

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Eric Alexander
Eric Alexander

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Louis Hayes
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Bobby Broom
Bobby Broom

Shares post-bop, soulful, voice as instrument, upright bass (subgenre)

Fredrik Kronkvist
Fredrik Kronkvist

Shares post-bop, vocal jazz, saxophone, upright bass (subgenre)

Bobby Watson
Bobby Watson

Shares post-bop, voice as instrument, vocal jazz, saxophone (subgenre)

Mike Stern
Mike Stern

Shares post-bop, soulful, saxophone, instrumental only (subgenre)

Steve Davis
Steve Davis

Shares hard bop, post-bop, saxophone, upright bass (signature)

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