Oakland, CA, USA – On October 14, 2022, jazz saxophonist Lisa Lee was honored at the 40th Annual Bay Area Jazz Festival in Oakland, celebrating her incredible contributions to the local jazz scene. Lee, whose distinctive sound has influenced generations of musicians, sat down for an exclusive interview where she reflected on her career, the evolution of jazz in the Bay Area, and the significance of mentorship in the world of music.
Having moved to Oakland in the late 1980s, Lee quickly became a staple in the local jazz community, performing with some of the genre’s most legendary figures, including Herbie Hancock and Art Blakey. However, Lee’s influence goes beyond her own performances—she has played a crucial role in mentoring young jazz artists and advocating for the preservation of jazz culture in an increasingly commercialized music world.
“Jazz is more than just a genre; it’s a way of thinking, a way of seeing the world. I came to the Bay Area because it felt like a place where music was allowed to breathe and evolve,” Lee shared during our conversation. “There’s a freedom here that you don’t find everywhere. The Bay has always been a hotbed for experimental jazz, and that’s something I’ve tried to carry forward in my own work.”
Her journey into music was not without challenges. Coming from a working-class background, Lee faced financial and institutional barriers that many women of color encounter in the male-dominated world of jazz. But through her perseverance and determination, she not only overcame these obstacles but also became a mentor to others who faced similar struggles. “I had to fight for my place at the table, but I learned that you can’t let the obstacles stop you. You have to use them as fuel,” Lee remarked, reflecting on her early years in the industry.
Lee’s musical style is an eclectic mix of traditional and modern jazz elements, often incorporating influences from her African heritage and the rich cultural diversity of the Bay Area. Her most recent album, “Roots & Rhythms,” released in 2022, has received critical acclaim for its fusion of Afrobeat, bebop, and experimental jazz sounds. The album’s success is a testament to Lee’s continuous evolution as an artist and her ability to push the boundaries of jazz while maintaining its soulful foundation.
During the festival, Lee performed several tracks from “Roots & Rhythms,” captivating the audience with her virtuosity and emotional depth. Her saxophone solos told stories of resilience, hope, and community, reflecting the essence of jazz as both an art form and a form of cultural expression.
When asked about the future of jazz in the Bay Area, Lee expressed optimism. “The younger generation is bringing fresh energy and ideas to the table. I see so much promise in the musicians coming up now. My role is to make sure they know their history and have the tools to keep this music alive. The legacy of jazz in the Bay Area is alive and thriving, and I’m excited to see where it goes next.”
Lisa Lee’s career is a testament to the power of jazz to inspire, uplift, and unify people. As the Bay Area jazz scene continues to evolve, Lee’s legacy remains a guiding light for aspiring musicians, a bridge between past traditions and future possibilities. The Bay Area Jazz Festival’s recognition of Lee is a fitting tribute to her enduring influence on both the local and global jazz communities.
