Country

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United States of America

Birth

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March 27, 1963 in Tarzana, CA

 

Dave Koz is a renowned American saxophonist, composer, and radio host who has made a significant contribution to the world of contemporary jazz and pop music. Born on March 27, 1963, in Encino, California, Koz grew up in a musical family where his parents encouraged him to pursue his passion for music. He started playing the piano at the age of seven and later switched to the saxophone, which became his primary instrument. Koz attended William Howard Taft High School in Woodland Hills, California, where he played in the school's jazz band. He then went on to study communications at UCLA but dropped out after two years to pursue a career in music. In 1986, Koz joined the band of singer Bobby Caldwell, which gave him his first taste of success in the music industry. In 1990, Koz released his debut album, "Dave Koz," which featured a mix of jazz, R&B, and pop music. The album was well-received by critics and audiences alike, and it helped establish Koz as a rising star in the contemporary jazz scene. He followed up with his second album, "Lucky Man," in 1993, which featured collaborations with several notable musicians, including Jeff Lorber, Marcus Miller, and Luther Vandross. Over the years, Koz has released numerous albums, including "Off the Beaten Path" (1996), "The Dance" (1999), "Saxophonic" (2003), and "Hello Tomorrow" (2010). His music has been praised for its smooth, melodic sound and its ability to blend different genres of music seamlessly. Koz has also collaborated with a wide range of artists, including Stevie Wonder, Burt Bacharach, and Barry Manilow. In addition to his successful music career, Koz has also made a name for himself as a radio host. In 1994, he started hosting "The Dave Koz Radio Show," a weekly syndicated program that features interviews with musicians and showcases new and classic jazz music. The show has become a popular destination for jazz fans around the world and has helped Koz expand his reach beyond the music industry. Koz has also been recognized for his contributions to the music industry with numerous awards and accolades. In 1999, he won a Soul Train Music Award for Best Jazz Album for "The Dance." He has also been nominated for several Grammy Awards, including Best Pop Instrumental Album for "Saxophonic" in 2004 and Best Traditional Pop Vocal Album for "At the Movies" in 2008. In addition to his music and radio work, Koz is also a philanthropist who is actively involved in several charitable organizations. He is a member of the board of directors for the Starlight Children's Foundation, which provides support and resources for seriously ill children and their families. He is also a co-founder of the Rhythmic Arts Project, which uses music and rhythm to help individuals with disabilities improve their cognitive and motor skills. Throughout his career, Dave Koz has remained committed to creating music that is both accessible and innovative. His ability to blend different genres of music and collaborate with a wide range of artists has helped him establish himself as one of the most versatile and talented musicians of his generation. With his continued dedication to his craft and his philanthropic work, Koz is sure to remain a beloved figure in the music industry for years to come.

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