Keyon Harrold is a groundbreaking jazz trumpeter and vocalist whose innovative, genre-blending style incorporates hip-hop, R&B, and classical influences. Celebrated for his expressive artistry and collaborations with major artists across various music scenes, Harrold uses his craft to address contemporary social issues and promote healing through music.
Keyon Harrold is a highly acclaimed American jazz trumpeter, vocalist, songwriter, and producer, recognized for his innovative and genre-blending approach to music. Born Keyon Karim Harrold on November 18, 1980, in Ferguson, Missouri, he grew up in a large, musically gifted family—one of 16 children—with deep roots in both music and community service. His grandfather, a retired police officer, founded a local drum and bugle corps, and both of his parents were pastors, fostering a strong sense of community and musical tradition.
Harrold is celebrated for his genre-defying style, seamlessly blending jazz with elements of hip-hop, R&B, soul, funk, rock, and even classical music. His influences include Miles Davis’ second great quintet, Prince, Common, Dr. Dre, and J Dilla. Wynton Marsalis has described him as “the future of the trumpet.”
After graduating from the School of Jazz at The New School in New York City, Harrold quickly established himself in the city’s vibrant music scene. His first major professional break came with rapper Common, which expanded his musical horizons beyond jazz to include funk, Afrobeat, R&B, and hip-hop. This versatility led to collaborations and performances with a wide array of artists across genres, including:
Harrold’s upbringing in Ferguson, Missouri, and his family’s commitment to music and community service have deeply influenced his artistry and worldview. He is a member of the Omega Psi Phi fraternity, having been initiated in November 2022.
He has released music under several prominent labels, including Criss Cross Jazz, Legacy Recordings, Mass Appeal, Sony Music, and Columbia. His collaborative spirit has led him to work with a diverse roster of artists, from jazz legends to hip-hop and R&B superstars.
| Attribute | Details ||--------------------------|------------------------------------------------------------------------|| Full Name | Keyon Karim Harrold || Birth Date | November 18, 1980 || Birthplace | Ferguson, Missouri, U.S. || Genres | Jazz, rap, R&B, funk, soul, rock, classical || Main Instrument | Trumpet || Notable Albums | The Mugician (2017), Introducing Keyon Harrold (2009), Foreverland || Major Collaborations | Jay-Z, Beyoncé, Common, Snoop Dogg, Erykah Badu, Nas, Diana Ross, etc. || Awards | Grammy Award (for Miles Ahead soundtrack) || Education | The New School, New York City || Fraternity | Omega Psi Phi |
Keyon Harrold is widely regarded as one of the most innovative and in-demand trumpeters of his generation, known for his expressive playing, genre-crossing collaborations, and commitment to using music as a force for healing and social change.
