Courtney Pine & His Band
(United Kingdom)
Celebrating four decades at the forefront of British jazz, Courtney Pine returns to the stage with ‚Out Of The Ghetto: A Modern Day Jazz Story‘ – a powerful retrospective tour accompanying the release of his new career spanning compilation on Universal records. From his landmark 1986 debut Journey To The Urge Within to his Mercury-nominated Modern Day Jazz Stories and standing on stages in 2026, Pine has consistently redefined what it means to be a jazz artist in the UK. Blending the spiritual legacy of jazz with the pulse of reggae, soul, hip-hop and drum & bass, his music tells the very personal story of a generation and a nation finding its voice through sound.
This special live show brings together key moments from Pine’s remarkable catalogue, and previously unreleased work reimagined with the fire and freedom that have always made his live performances legendary. Both a celebration and a reflection, Out Of The Ghetto:A Modern Day Jazz Story honours the resilience, creativity and community that shaped Pine’s journey from London streets to international stages. Expect a night of deep grooves, soaring saxophone, and the unmistakable energy of an artist still pushing jazz forward while staying true to his roots.
Line up:
Robert Mitchell – piano
Rio Kai – double bass
Romarna Campbell – drums
Courtney Pine – saxophones
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Travel party:
5 people
Available / On Tour:
Generally available 2026 / 2027
Courtney Pine is a cultural phenomenon whose influence stretches far beyond the stage. For over three decades, he has been the primary architect of the British jazz explosion, transforming the genre into a vibrant, inclusive, and forward-thinking art form. Leading his world-class band, Pine crafts a live experience that is as physically powerful as it is intellectually stimulating. He is a master of emotional storytelling, using his instruments to bridge the gap between performer and listener. Whether he is wielding the tenor saxophone with blistering speed or exploring the hauntingly beautiful, wood-toned depths of the bass clarinet, his performances remain a masterclass in technical audacity and high-octane celebration.
His journey represents one of the most significant narratives in modern music history. Pine’s 1986 debut was a watershed moment, becoming the first serious jazz album to reach the UK Top 40 and earn a Silver disc—a feat that didn’t just launch a career, but fundamentally opened the door for a whole generation of Black British musicians. His refusal to be categorized has led to a rich musical tapestry that draws deeply from his Caribbean heritage, seamlessly integrating the rhythms of Reggae, Ska, and Calypso with the sharp, urban energy of the contemporary scene.
Throughout his prolific career, Pine has shared the stage with global icons ranging from Mick Jagger to Quincy Jones, yet he remains a relentless innovator focused on the future. As a recipient of both an OBE and CBE for his services to jazz education and performance, he is far more than a virtuoso; he is a musical ambassador and a „professor of sound.“ With his ensemble, he continues to push the limits of improvisation, proving that jazz is a living, breathing force that speaks directly to the pulse of the modern world.
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Courtney Pine was once hailed as British jazz’s saviour… he still is.
The Independent
A walking encyclopaedia of advanced saxophony.
The Guardian
