Houston Person, the formidable tenor saxophonist from Newberry, South Carolina, has been a torchbearer of soul jazz since his groundbreaking 1966 album Underground Soul.

With a repertoire that seamlessly travels through blues, ballads, and popular tunes, Person has consistently enchanted audiences across the globe.

Born in 1934, Person embraced the tenor saxophone at 17 after initially starting with the piano. In his remarkable career spanning over 25 years as a bandleader, he still manages his own tours, discovers new venues, and produces his own albums. Acknowledged for his distinctive sassy sound and expressive playing style, Person is a prominent figure in soul jazz, earning the prestigious Eubie Blake Jazz Award in 1982. Person was inducted into South Carolina State College’s Hall of Fame in 1999, further proving his musical journey is a testament to his enduring impact on the world of jazz.