Tennessee 2025-2026 Regular Session

Tennessee Senate Bill SR0243 Compare Versions

Only one version of the bill is available at this time.

Old	New	Differences
1	1
2	2	<BillNo> <Sponsor>
3	3
4	4	SENATE RESOLUTION 243
5	5	By Akbari
6	6
7	7
8	8	SR0243
9	9	008086
10	10	- 1 -
11	11
12	12	A RESOLUTION to honor and commend Kenneth Whalum III of
13	13	Memphis.
14	14
15	15	WHEREAS, Kenneth Whalum III is a singular creative voice in contemporary music, an
16	16	artist whose saxophone speaks as powerfully as his pen and whose vocal stylings redefine the
17	17	boundaries of jazz, alt-soul, and spiritual expression; and
18	18	WHEREAS, born and raised in the rich musical landscape of Memphis, Tennessee,
19	19	Kenneth is a product of deep-rooted artistry, spiritual tradition, and relentless innovation. As a
20	20	composer, arranger, bandleader, and tenor saxophonist, he is acclaimed for his ability to
21	21	synthesize gospel roots with jazz dexterity, R&B rhythms, and soulful introspection; and
22	22	WHEREAS, Kenneth's musical path was shaped early by the vibrant sounds of Memphis
23	23	and the influence of his family. His father, Reverend Kenneth T. Whalum Jr., is a respected
24	24	pastor and musician; his uncle, Kirk Whalum, is a Grammy-winning saxophonist whose work
25	25	has defined generations; and
26	26	WHEREAS, Kenneth initially gravitated toward drums but was persuaded by a middle
27	27	school band director to pick up the saxophone. That pivotal decision unlocked a calling; from
28	28	church performances at The New Olivet Baptist Church to gigs around town, Kenneth's musical
29	29	journey has always been grounded in purpose and community; and
30	30	WHEREAS, his artistry deepened through formal education—first at Morehouse College,
31	31	then at The New School for Jazz and Contemporary Music in New York, where he was
32	32	immersed in the epicenter of modern jazz. There, Kenneth developed a bold and emotional
33	33	sound, collaborating with peers like Robert Glasper, Bilal, and Chris "Daddy" Dave; and
34	34
35	35
36	36	- 2 - 008086
37	37
38	38	WHEREAS, his debut album, To Those Who Believe, captures the soul of that journey: a
39	39	deeply personal exploration of faith, struggle, joy, and growth, woven together with world-class
40	40	musicianship and lyrical sensitivity; and
41	41	WHEREAS, Kenneth's career as a session and touring artist skyrocketed with early
42	42	stints performing with Sean "Diddy" Combs and Jay-Z, the latter of whom featured Kenneth's
43	43	horn arrangements on the chart-topping "Roc Boys (And the Winner Is)"; from there, his
44	44	saxophone became a sought-after voice in the industry, appearing on projects with Maxwell,
45	45	Mary J. Blige, Beyoncé, Al Green, 50 Cent, and more. His work on BLACKSummers'night with
46	46	Maxwell earned Grammy nominations, cementing his place among music's most elite
47	47	collaborators; and
48	48	WHEREAS, but Kenneth's heart lies in his solo work. His haunting single "Say Sorry"
49	49	and soul-stirring track "One More Kiss" highlight his evolution as a vocalist and songwriter. With
50	50	an ear for atmospheric production, lyrical honesty, and spiritual resonance, Kenneth Whalum
51	51	doesn't just play music—he ministers through it; and
52	52	WHEREAS, now based in Brooklyn, New York, Kenneth continues to explore the
53	53	intersections of faith, identity, and artistry. His music offers solace, provokes thought, and
54	54	stands as a living tribute to Memphis soul, jazz intellect, and personal truth; now, therefore,
55	55	BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE OF THE O NE HUNDRED FOURTEENTH
56	56	GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF TENNESSEE, that we honor and commend
57	57	Kenneth Whalum III for his indelible contributions to music and extend to him our best wishes
58	58	for much continued success.
59	59	BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that an appropriate copy of this resolution be prepared
60	60	for presentation with this final clause omitted from such copy.
61	61