Ian Hendrickson-Smith
Soulful Saxophone Mainstay
A powerhouse multi-instrumentalist whose soulful sound anchors The Roots and defined the revivalist horn lines of Sharon Jones & The Dap-Kings.
soul-jazzhard bopr&bfunk
About
Born in New Orleans and a Manhattan School of Music graduate, Ian Hendrickson-Smith is a staple of the New York jazz scene. He is widely recognized as the saxophonist for The Roots on The Tonight Show and for his extensive session work with icons like Amy Winehouse and Al Green.
Music Style
Hendrickson-Smith delivers a gritty, blues-inflected tone rooted in hard bop and soul-jazz. He is equally proficient on multiple saxophones, blending deep rhythmic precision with expressive, vocal-like melodies.
Background
- Hometown
- New Orleans, Louisiana
- Education
- Manhattan School of Music
- Instruments
- saxophone (alto), saxophone (tenor), saxophone (baritone), flute
- Active
- 1990s–present
Similar Artists
If you like Cannonball Adderley, Lou Donaldson, or Maceo Parker — you'll love this artist
Lou Donaldson
Shares a deep affinity for soulful, blues-drenched alto saxophone lines and the soul-jazz idiom.
90%
Cannonball Adderley
Known for a similar blend of sophisticated jazz vocabulary and earthy, gospel-influenced phrasing.
90%
Maceo Parker
Demonstrates the same high-energy funk sensibility and rhythmic drive found in his prominent R&B work.
85%
Notable Collaborations
The RootsSharon Jones & The Dap-KingsAmy WinehouseLady GagaMark RonsonAl GreenDr. Lonnie SmithSturgill Simpson
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