When Kirk Whalum steps onto a stage, it’s more than a performance—it’s a sermon of sound, a journey of soul, and a celebration of legacy. On Friday, 16 May 2025, South African audiences will experience this spiritual jazz pilgrimage live, as the Grammy Award-winning saxophonist is set to perform at the Theatre of Marcellus, Emperors Palace.
Presented by Breakout Events, An Evening with Kirk Whalum promises to be a soulful encounter that bridges continents, cultures, and hearts. Known for his warm tone, emotive phrasing and genre-blending brilliance, Whalum’s work has long resonated across the worlds of jazz, gospel and R&B. His sound is the sound of intimacy; whether wrapped around a gospel hymn or soaring through a chart-topping pop anthem.
South Africans may remember him from his stirring solo on Whitney Houston’s “I Will Always Love You”—a moment that forever changed the landscape of modern ballads. But Whalum’s story goes far deeper. With a career spanning nearly four decades, he has performed with luminaries like Luther Vandross, Barbra Streisand, Quincy Jones, Al Jarreau, and countless others. His collaborations with Bob James and the supergroup BWB (alongside Norman Brown and Rick Braun) have defined contemporary jazz for generations.
What sets Whalum apart is not just his extraordinary musicianship, but his unwavering sense of purpose. His Gospel According to Jazz series, which earned him a Grammy, has touched audiences globally with its message of hope, faith and humanity. Each note he plays feels like a call to reflect, rejoice, and reconnect.
This performance marks a rare opportunity for fans to see a true master at work in an intimate theatre setting. With doors opening at 19h00 and the concert beginning promptly at 20h00, audiences can expect an evening of virtuosic performance, heartfelt storytelling, and musical transcendence.
Tickets start at R295 and are available via Webtickets. Join the Facebook event here to stay updated and be part of the conversation.
Whether you’re a jazz aficionado, a lover of soul, or simply someone who appreciates the transformative power of live music, An Evening with Kirk Whalum is not to be missed.
Event Details
Date: Friday, 16 May 2025
Time: Doors 19h00 Concert starts 20h00
Venue: Theatre of Marcellus at Emperors Palace
Address: 64 Jones Road, Kempton Park 1620
GPS: 26° 08′ 42.9504″ S 28° 13′ 20.532″ E