Saxophonist Steve Cole is a popular jazz performer whose crossover sound draws from the R&B, pop, and blues influences of his hometown Chicago. He initially gained attention in the late '90s playing alongside guitarist Brian Culbertson and issuing albums like 1998's Stay Awhile and 2003's NY LA. Whether on his own, or as a member of the all-star Sax Pack with Jeff Kashiwa and Kim Waters, Cole has remained a chart favorite, issuing albums like 2016's Turn It Up, 2019's neo-soul-inflected Gratitude, and 2021's Smoke and Mirrors.