Lakecia Benjamin and Phoenix on Feb 7, 2025 | UCSB Arts & Lectures

“Lakecia Benjamin plays jazz that is sprinkled with the rich flavors of funk and soul – she’s a crafty traditionalist who remains in step with the rhythms of the young generation.” The New Yorker

Saxophonist, composer and arranger Lakecia Benjamin fuses soul and hip-hop with a strong foundation in the canon of modern jazz. The Manhattan native has worked with an impressive roster of jazz greats, including Clark Terry, Reggie Workman, Gregory Porter and Christian McBride. Her 2023 release, Phoenix, earned Grammy nominations in two categories – Best Jazz Instrumental Album and Best Jazz Performance for her original composition “Basquiat.” Benjamin’s latest album, Phoenix Reimagined (Live) was nominated for two Grammy Awards this year: Best Jazz Instrumental Album and Best Jazz Performance. Fans of John Coltrane, Wayne Shorter and Ornette Coleman, listen up – there’s a new horn in town, and she’s ready to roar.