Lakecia Benjamin Brings New York Jazz to France on October Tour
New York saxophonist and composer Lakecia Benjamin is touring France from October 8 to 16. Before establishing herself as a bandleader, she performed alongside soul and hip-hop stars. Her distinctive sound draws on the be-bop tradition and Latin music. In a Le Monde interview, she recalled learning to play jazz without even knowing what it was. The French dates follow that artistic trajectory, which moved from sideman work in popular music to her own voice as a composer and improviser.
Key facts
- Lakecia Benjamin is a New York saxophonist and composer.
- She toured France from October 8 to 16.
- She previously accompanied soul and hip-hop stars.
- Her tone is shaped by be-bop heritage and Latin music.
- She said she learned to play jazz without knowing what it was.
- The interview appeared in Le Monde.
- She has imposed her own musical voice as a bandleader.
- The article was published on October 6, 2026.
Entities
Artists
- Lakecia Benjamin
Institutions
- Le Monde
Locations
- New York
- United States
- France