What do you think when you think of Kenny G? Smooth soprano sax tones? Beautiful curly hair? One of the first investors in Starbucks? That’s right. Kenny G, real name Kenny Goerlick, was one of the first investors of the now omnipresent coffee chain. He was convinced to invest after meeting founder Howard Schultz before the company went public. He also invented the Frappuccino, or at least partially, claiming that he called Schultz early on recommending they make a sort of milkshake drink. I mean, of course the king of smooth jazz would know something about a smooth blended drink. The G man is also one of the most loved artists in China, with his song “Going Home” played across the country at malls, shops and businesses, to signal the end of operating hours. And he is also a +0.6 handicap golfer—which, for those who don’t know, is really good—and won the Pan-Am tournament in 2001 with Phil Mickelson. Oh, and did I mention? Kenny G is a droner and held the world record for longest continually played note (for 45 minutes and 35 seconds) from 1997-2000. Someone book him a show with La Monte Young!
Here is a funny, if not rather blue music video from the G Man, called “Against. Doctor’s Orders”. If anything, Kenny has a good sense of humor about himself.
Also for kicks, here's a Kenny G Remix I made years ago..... trip out
Drawing is by Christina Giovinco
