Kenneth Bruce Gorelick, known professionally as Kenny G, was born on June 5, 1956, in Seattle, Washington. He is an American saxophonist, composer, and record producer renowned for his smooth jazz music. Kenny G began playing the saxophone at the age of ten, inspired by a performance on The Ed Sullivan Show. He pursued his education at the University of Washington, graduating magna cum laude with a degree in accounting, while simultaneously nurturing his burgeoning music career.

Kenny G's professional journey commenced at age 17 when he joined Barry White's Love Unlimited Orchestra. He later played with the Seattle funk band Cold, Bold & Together and became a full member of The Jeff Lorber Fusion. His solo career took off after signing with Arista Records in 1982, releasing his debut album "Kenny G" the same year. However, it was his fourth studio album, "Duotones" (1986), featuring the hit single "Songbird," that marked his international breakthrough.

In 1992, Kenny G released "Breathless," which became the best-selling instrumental album ever, solidifying his status as a leading figure in the smooth jazz genre. His holiday album, "Miracles: The Holiday Album" (1994), further cemented his commercial success. Throughout his career, Kenny G has collaborated with numerous artists, including Andrea Bocelli and Frank Sinatra, and contributed to soundtracks for films like "The Bodyguard."

Despite criticism from some jazz purists, Kenny G's signature sound, characterized by smooth melodies and memorable compositions, has made him one of the best-selling artists of all time, with over 75 million records sold worldwide. His influence extends globally, with notable popularity in China, where his song "Going Home" is widely used in public spaces. Kenny G continues to perform and release music, maintaining his position as a prominent and influential figure in contemporary instrumental music.