Rico Jones

Rico Jones is a visionary saxophonist, composer, and bandleader redefining modern jazz through a lens of deep tradition, spiritual clarity, and fearless originality. Based in Harlem, NY, Rico has performed with legends including Esperanza Spalding, Vincent Herring, members of the Mingus Big Band, and studied with jazz giants like Sonny Rollins, George Coleman, Bennie Maupin, Charles McPherson, and Bobby Watson. His debut album Bloodlines, released by Giant Step Arts (founded by iconic jazz photographer Jimmy Katz), features all-original compositions and top-tier collaborators. Rico’s music has been performed and recorded by David Kikoski, Billy Drummond, Will Lyle, and others. He’s appeared at the Blue Note NYC, Dizzy’s, JALC, the Kennedy Center, Red Rocks Amphitheatre, Jazz Forum, and leading festivals across the U.S. As a multi-time DownBeat Award winner, Vandoren Emerging Artist, and alum of the Kennedy Center’s Betty Carter Jazz Ahead program, he’s recognized for his masterful technique and emotional depth. Beyond performance, Rico is a dedicated educator and community leader—organizing over 100 free concerts during the pandemic and teaching in underserved school communities. His sound is both ancestral and futuristic—rooted in the lineage of Black American Music while pushing forward with bold intent. Whether on stage or in the streets, Rico Jones brings fire, truth, and purpose to every note.