James Carter (Detroit, 1969) is an American jazz saxophonist described by the New York Times as "one of the most charismatic and powerful soloists in jazz". He commands the full saxophone family - from sopranino to contrabass - and moves with equal ease through bebop, free jazz, soul jazz and classical music. His debut album JC on the Set (1993) was immediately hailed as one of the finest saxophone debuts in decades, and he has since built a substantial discography of more than a dozen albums. Collaborations with Lester Bowie, Cyrus Chestnut and the World Saxophone Quartet cemented his international standing.
Carter performed at the Blue Note Jazz Club in New York with his program 'Trane: A Centennial Supreme', a tribute to John Coltrane, together with trombonist Steve Turre.
Carter performed as part of the opening program of the Jazz at Lincoln Center 2025-26 season in New York.
Carter released the solo album Un (Unaccompanied Baritone Saxophone) on the Outside in Music label, on which he plays eight pieces entirely solo on baritone saxophone.
Carter presented his quintet at Birdland in New York in the premiere of 'Lookin' at Lock: The Music of Eddie "Lockjaw" Davis'.
Carter released the debut album D(IVO) with Tim Berne, Tony Malaby and Ivo Perelman of his adventurous saxophone quartet.
Paradox Jazz Orchestra explores Coltrane's music with saxophonist James Carter in a 'Create & Play' evening: public rehearsal at 19:00, concert at 21:00.
Paradox Jazz Orchestra pays tribute to a legendary jazz pioneer with saxophonist James Carter as featured soloist.