Donald Hayes at ICON Jazz Lounge

Donald Hayes: From Beyoncé to Marcus Miller—Now He’s Center Stage.

When Donald Hayes picks up the saxophone, the melodies don’t just play—they testify. A Memphis native with deep gospel and blues roots, Hayes has carved out a singular voice in contemporary jazz, soul, and R&B. His sound is unmistakable: rich, emotive, and laced with the kind of finesse that only comes from decades of mastery.

As one of the most sought-after arrangers and touring musicians in the country, Hayes has shared stages and studios with legends like Beyoncé, Earth, Wind & Fire, Robin Thicke, Stevie Wonder, Chaka Khan, Marcus Miller, and Jamie Foxx—just to name a few...

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Donald Hayes: From Beyoncé to Marcus Miller—Now He’s Center Stage.

When Donald Hayes picks up the saxophone, the melodies don’t just play—they testify. A Memphis native with deep gospel and blues roots, Hayes has carved out a singular voice in contemporary jazz, soul, and R&B. His sound is unmistakable: rich, emotive, and laced with the kind of finesse that only comes from decades of mastery.

As one of the most sought-after arrangers and touring musicians in the country, Hayes has shared stages and studios with legends like Beyoncé, Earth, Wind & Fire, Robin Thicke, Stevie Wonder, Chaka Khan, Marcus Miller, and Jamie Foxx—just to name a few. His solo project Front Ground showcases his artistry front and center, featuring collaborations with Eric Benét and the late Wayman Tisdale.

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