"Childs use[s] the full range of his instrument while effectively using dynamics to build an arc within each solo. His sound can be sweet and equally harsh when called for, executed with remarkable technique and most importantly, a keen understanding of nuance that is rare for veteran players much less a ninth grader. The young altoist's approach is that of many of the great ... players in jazz history, with a great spiritual awareness of the musical environment where he is residing in the moment." LINK TO ARTICLE
-- Paul Rauch
All About Jazz
Click the link below to hear an extensive interview of Kahlil by journalist Anthony Thomas covering how Kahlil started in jazz, his relationships with his mentors such as Charles McPherson, Kamau Kenyatta, and Gilbert Castellanos, and his future plans -- namely his goals of relocating to New York and releasing albums as a bandleader.
"When the quartet takes the stage, there’s the usual jazz applause at appropriate times. But there’s something also different, intangible. Childs, 15, addresses the audience with both presence and confidence—dare I say an aura?—that marks him as a leader. It comes through in his playing—alto sax and bass clarinet. His band mates function with him as one unit, each taking solos throughout the set and all commanding attention at the same level.
[There was] polite applause in all the right places...But the standing ovation and roar of approval that follows their set is unusual and encouraging....I got to see these guys on this day, in this moment, and the show has stuck with me. As Queen would say, “It’s a Kind of Magic." LINK TO ARTICLE
-- Spike Steffenhagen
San Diego Reader (2025)
Copyright © 2025 Kahlil Childs - All Rights Reserved.
We use cookies to analyze website traffic and optimize your website experience. By accepting our use of cookies, your data will be aggregated with all other user data.