The saxophone, created by Adolphe Sax in 1846, began in orchestras but soon broke free to explore a range of sounds that brought it to the forefront of independent music. This journey into new, modern, and soulful territories became the inspiration for saxophonist Raúl Guzmán. Raised in a musical family, Guzmán was deeply influenced by his grandfather, Raúl “Marino” Suarez, a renowned saxophonist in Venezuelan bands like La Billos and Los Melódicos.
Guzmán’s music blends jazz, blues, and Caribbean reggae, influenced by bands like Tiken Jah Fakoly and Steel Pulse. He held the lead saxophone position in two of Venezuela’s top reggae bands, Aguamala and Zion TPL, before producing his debut solo album Black & White. Recorded between Venezuela and the U.S., the album’s first single, “Florida,” embodies Guzmán’s journey, offering a seamless blend of smooth jazz, poetry, and life experiences. Welcome to Black & White.
