Najee, who was born Jerome Najee Rasheed, is a native of New York City and is known for his artistry with the saxophone and flute. He became interested in music when he was a youngster and began playing the clarinet in grade school. However, he was far more interested in playing the saxophone, inspired by artists like Charlie Parker and John Coltrane. His love of the instrument led to his decision to pursue a career as a professional jazz musician.
He began studying in high school, when he joined the Jazzmobile program and learned the flute and the tenor sax. When he was 18, Najee went on to study the flute at the Manhattan School of Music Preparation Division, working with Harold Jones, a flautist with the New York Philharmonic.
He started his professional career as a teen, playing in local bands around New York City. He toured with Chaka Khan in 1986, and dropped “Najee’s Theme,” his debut album, in 1986. He has recorded steadily since, and released his studio latest album, “Savoir Faire,” in 2022. He has won numerous awards, including an NAACP Image Award as “Best Jazz Artist” in 2006. A concert review says:
“What an awesome show!! Me and my lovely wife enjoyed every moment of it.”
Najee will be at the Ludlow Garage on January 11 at 7.30 pm. When they plan events like this, organizers will often use poster printing to promote them.