Jazz for Philadelphia native and alto saxophonist Jaleel Shaw is a soulful, boundary-pushing journey. His impressive collaborations include NEA Jazz Masters Roy Haynes and Terri Lyne Carrington, Grammy Award-winning artists: bassists Dave Holland and Christian McBride, and pianists Kris Davis, Robert Glasper, and Jason Moran.
Shaw’s musical story emerges from his mother’s insistence on raising her son in a household where diverse music was heard throughout his young years, leading to lessons on multiple instruments-piano, the drums, clarinet, violin and alto saxophone. Jaleel Shaw’s mother and the rich tapestry of Philadelphia’s jazz scene, where early guidance from teachers like Dennis Sandole and Lovett Hines and mentorship from legends like Roy Haynes shaped his improvisational voice and stage presence. Shaw often recalls lessons learned in dim-lit clubs and crowded rehearsals, experiences that have fueled his growth across two decades in the spotlight.
It’s through learning about African American history that Jaleel Shaw has been able to feel the pride of being a Black man and convey it in his music. This has enabled him to dive deeper into composing music that speaks to his emotions and the Black condition in this country.
Shaw’s first album in 13 years showcases an all-star quartet—Lawrence Fields (piano), Ben Street (bass), Joe Dyson (drums)—and guests Sasha Berliner (vibraphone) and Lage Lund (guitar). The project pays tribute to ancestors and victims like Tamir Rice and Breonna Taylor, addressing invisibility, grief, and community, while reflecting Shaw’s advocacy against book bans and erasure of “woke” narratives.
As Shaw navigates both his artistry and fatherhood, his music becomes a living testament to resilience and hope. Through “Painter of the Invisible,” listeners witness not only Shaw’s technical brilliance but also his deep commitment to social justice and personal storytelling. Each note and lyric echoes the journey of a musician determined to bring unseen stories and marginalized voices into the spotlight, creating a legacy that intertwines family, community, and creative exploration.
Thanks to Changu Records, there are three featured tracks from Painter of the Invisible (2025) are: “Gina’s Ascent, Featuring Sasha Berline-vibraphone, 9:32,” “Tamir (For Tamir Rice), 10:53” and “The Invisible Man, Featuring Lage Lund, 9:32.” Thank you for choosing Strictly Jazz Sounds. Photo by Yusuke Yamanouchi. #jaleelshaw #strictlyjazzsounds