Kristin Korb: The Swinging Bassist-Vocalist of Jazz
Kristin Korb is a distinctive American jazz artist celebrated for her dual role as a compelling vocalist and a virtuosic double bassist. Hailing from Montana, her career is marked by a consistent output of acclaimed albums and a dynamic international touring presence that has solidified her reputation in the jazz world.
Early career
Born in 1966, Kristin Korb's musical journey began with piano lessons in her youth before she discovered the double bass while studying at the University of Montana. Her dedication led her to the University of California, where she earned a master's degree in bass performance, laying a formidable technical foundation. Korb's professional break came when jazz legend Ray Brown heard her play, leading to mentorship and her pivotal move to Los Angeles to pursue music full-time.
Breakthrough
Kristin Korb's official debut arrived in 1996 with the album Introducing Kristin Korb on the Capri Records label. This release immediately showcased her unique format—a singing bassist leading a trio—and earned critical praise for its swing and sophistication. While not a mainstream chart phenomenon, the album established her artistic identity and led to sustained recognition within the international jazz community, paving the way for a prolific recording career.
Key tracks
Better Than Anything — This upbeat standard from her debut album perfectly demonstrates her seamless integration of melodic bass lines with warm, clear vocals.
The Moon Is Made of Gold — Featured on her 2012 album "What's Your Story?," this track highlights her skill as a thoughtful interpreter of lyrics and a nuanced storyteller.
East of the Sun — A frequent highlight in her live performances, this classic showcases her driving bass work and ability to build compelling rhythmic momentum.
You Move Me — This original composition from her 2020 album "Finding Home" reveals her growth as a songwriter with a modern, personal touch.
Kristin Korb has built a robust discography, including albums like "Thoughts of You" and "The Starlight Album," often released on her own Double K Music label. Her collaborations are extensive, having shared stages and recording sessions with icons like Mike Wofford, Jeff Hamilton, and Gregory Porter. A respected educator, Korb also contributes to jazz pedagogy through workshops and clinics worldwide, balancing performance with mentorship.
Fans of Kristin Korb's elegant swing and vocal-bass artistry also enjoy the work of similar artists. Diana Krall shares a similar piano-and-vocal leadership in a trio setting with a deep reverence for the jazz tradition. John Clayton is a parallel figure as a master bassist, composer, and bandleader rooted in classic jazz aesthetics. Jane Monheit offers a comparable vocal approach focused on clarity and interpreting the Great American Songbook. Ray Brown, her mentor, represents the pinnacle of bass mastery that fundamentally influenced Korb's own instrumental path.
The sophisticated sounds of Kristin Korb are a natural fit for our curated jazz programming. Her recordings frequently appear in rotations on our dedicated classic jazz FM stations and contemporary jazz online radio streams, where her blend of instrumental prowess and vocal charm resonates with discerning listeners.
You can experience the music of Kristin Korb on various radio stations featured here. Tune in to discover her catalog through the jazz and vocal-focused stations available on onairium.com.
