Kirk Kafé: Kirk Whalum with Kim Burrell

About This Event

Join Grammy-winning saxophonist Kirk Whalum for Kafé Kirk, an ongoing jazz series in Crosstown Theater featuring musical and spiritual collaborations with special guest artists.

KIRK WHALUM

Soulful, passionate, stirring…these are the words most often used to describe Kirk’s music. Forged from his Memphis, Tennessee, gospel roots and his 1980s initiation into the thriving Houston, TX nightclub scene, Kirk’s big, rich tenor sound is unmistakably his. The ’80s were highlighted by Kirk’s stepping out of his blossoming sideman role and forming his own band. It was there that Kirk ultimately developed both his “voice” and songwriting in the crucible of the local club scene—especially at a rooftop club called Cody’s. It was also in Houston where jazz pianist Bob James “discovered” him and brought him on tour, which led to five successful albums with Columbia Records, including Cache, Kirk’s first #1 album.

KIM BURRELL

Houston-based singer and pianist Kim Burrell, known for her unique “jazz gospel” sound, began her professional career singing with gospel greats like Rev. James Cleveland. Her solo recording career took off with releases on Tommy Boy Gospel, and she’s since collaborated with artists ranging from R. Kelly and George Clinton to gospel stars like Shirley Caesar and Kirk Franklin, and even secular icons like Stevie Wonder and Pharrell Williams (on the Hidden Figures soundtrack). A Grammy-nominated artist, Kim continues to captivate audiences with her powerful voice and songwriting talent.

Date and Time

March 30, 2025 @ 6:00 pm

Buy Tickets