Today we’d like to introduce you to Christopher King.
Christopher, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I started playing saxophone in the 6th Grade at Kendrick Middle School in Riverdale, GA. I continued to play throughout High School where I solo’d in a lot of band performances in Symphonic Band, Marching Band & Jazz Band. My primary instrument is Alto Saxophone, however, I played many brass and woodwind instruments as well. Playing the Alto Saxophone became my first love when I started to imitate musicians like Kenny G. (My favorite saxophonist of all time) and Dave Koz. My first gig was when I played Saxophone at a wedding age of 11. The first song I’ve ever mastered was Luther Vandross-The Closer I get to you. When I was in High School, I was very outgoing and had many leadership positions. I was a Student Director, Mr. Mays Royal Court and apart of SGA (Student Government Association).
On my graduation day, May 25th, 2011, my biggest moment was when I was offered a job opportunity on graduation to play my saxophone full time and up to this day, I’m still doing that same job. I graduated with 18 full scholarships to different HBCU’s. I attended Bethune Cookman University and then transferred to further my education at Clark Atlanta University. While attending Clark Atlanta University, I played for several funeral homes in Atlanta and out of state and played for Clark Atlanta University Chapel every Sunday. As I grew older, I decided to become a member of Warren Memorial United Methodist Church where I play at as well when I’m available. I’ve been able to work with several Artist like Angie Stone and Gospel Artist William Murphy to name a few. In 2016, I had my very first concert called Christopher King and Friends. The concert in May is Inspirational and The Concert in December is Christmas.
I wanted to give a platform to other local artist to share there gift as well and I also wanted to be able to express myself freely and have a platform of my own. One of my biggest opportunities came when I was asked to play for Rapper, Shawty Lo’s funeral. He himself gave me a platform even while he was deceased. Numerous of producers and artists were there and it definitely changed my life. It has been such a blessing to be able to use my gift and travel the world playing my saxophone. I get to do weddings, hotel engagements, funerals, private events and so much more. My favorite quote is by Leo Buscaglia, “Your talent is God’s gift to you. What you do with it is your gift back to God.”
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Life has been amazing, however, there has been testimonies along the way. I just continue to put God first and remain humble.
Can you give our readers some background on your music?
My business is being a full-time saxophonist. My tone and sound is what sets me apart from other saxophonist. Being from the heart of Atlanta also gives me a little more pull in some situations, everyone can’t say they’re a Grady Baby!
If you had to go back in time and start over, would you have done anything differently?
I would have appreciated High School a little more. You get so caught up in preparing for College, time just flashes on by. Take your time young people. You have your whole life ahead of you.
Contact Info:
- Phone: 404-906-0948
- Email: chrischarlesking@hotmail.com
- Instagram: @chriskingsax
Image Credit:
Vincent Davis @shakethebldng (He’s my personal photographer/videographer)
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