Branford Marsalis Signs To Blue Note Records

Prolific jazz musician Branford Marsalis has signed to the legendary imprint Blue Note Records. The saxophonist, composer, and conductor will release his first album on the label, titled Belonging, in the spring of next year. The album, which will see him reunite with fellow musicians Joey Calderazzo, Eric Revis, and Justin Faulkner, will be his first since 2019’s The Secret Between The Shadow And The Soul. The Branford Marsalis Quartet is also planning to tour the United States and Europe extensively in 2025.

“I am grateful to Blue Note for its steadfastness in preserving the music for generations,” Marsalis reflected in a press release. “I have listened to countless Blue Note albums over the years and look forward to making a contribution to this great library.” Added Blue Note President Don Was, “Over the last 40 years, Branford has been one of the most soulful and eloquent purveyors of a brilliant musical tradition. We are thrilled that his long path has finally led to the doorstep of Blue Note Records. We’re gonna do great things together!”

Marsalis, of course, has had a storied career. After growing up in New Orleans, the musician formed the BMQ in 1986 and has maintained that group practically constantly ever since. His many honors include three Grammy Awards, a Tony nomination, a Primetime Emmy nomination, and a citation by the National Endowment of the Arts as a jazz master. He has composed scores for the films Rustin, Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom, Mo’ Better Blues, and The Immortal Life Of Henrietta Lacks. Marsalis also arranged and orchestrated the music for the current Broadway production of A Wonderful World, about the life of Louis Armstrong. “We both grew up in New Orleans, where music is an integral part of life and infuses your soul,” the musician told Deadline in August. “It’s an honor to help bring his sound and style to the stage in this production.”

Check out the official Branford Marsalis website for tour updates.