Acclaimed Saxophonist Talks “Savor,” His Musical Journey and the Art of Jazz
Acclaimed saxophonist, composer and multi-instrumentalist Charles Langford is entering a new chapter with the release of his latest single, “Savor,” available September 25, 2026, on all major digital streaming platforms.
Written by acclaimed songwriter Michael Broening, the smooth contemporary jazz recording places Langford’s expressive saxophone playing at the center of an elegant and soulful production.
A Springfield, Massachusetts native, Langford has spent decades developing his voice as a musician.
His musical foundation was shaped by his father and grandfather, whose love of jazz introduced him to legendary artists and taught him to truly listen.
Charles formal studies included the University of Massachusetts Amherst and the New School for Social Research in New York City, where he studied composition and teaching with jazz masters including Billy Harper, Donald Byrd and Barry Harris.
He also studied with legendary musicians Archie Shepp and Yusef Lateef.
Throughout his career, Langford has performed with artists including The Toni Lynn Washington Blues Band, The Temptations and Mighty Sam McClain.
He has also shared his talents with acclaimed artists including Melvin Sparks, Norman Connors, Solomon Burke and Steve Turre.
His command of the tenor, alto and soprano saxophones, clarinet and flute reflects a musicianship rooted in tradition, experience and continued exploration.
With “Savor,” Langford invites listeners to slow down, take in the melody and appreciate the emotion within every note.
Q: Your new single is titled “Savor.” What does that title mean to you, and what do you hope listeners take away from the recording?
Charles Langford: “Savor” is about taking the time to enjoy something.
In music, sometimes we move so quickly that we don't really stop and listen. I wanted this recording to create an atmosphere where people could slow down, take in the melody and really experience what they are hearing. There is something special about allowing yourself to savor a moment.
Q: What attracted you to the composition Michael Broening wrote?
Charles Langford: Michael created a beautiful composition with a smooth, sophisticated melody. It gave me room to express myself through the saxophone while still allowing the composition to speak for itself. That balance was important to me.
Q: What was the recording process like working with Michael Broening?
Charles Langford: Michael brought a very polished approach to the recording. He played piano, keyboards and synth bass, handled the drum programming, produced the track and mixed it. That created a strong musical foundation for the saxophone. We were able to build something contemporary while keeping the emotion and musicality intact.
Q: You play tenor, alto and soprano saxophones, as well as clarinet and flute. How does being a multi-instrumentalist influence your approach to music?
Charles Langford: Each instrument has its own personality and its own way of expressing emotion. Being able to move between instruments has helped me understand music from different perspectives. It also keeps me curious. I am always listening, learning and looking for another way to express an idea.
Q: Your relationship with jazz began when you were young. What do you remember about those early influences?
Charles Langford: My father and grandfather were very important to my musical development. They had a deep appreciation for jazz, and they taught me how to listen. They would help me recognize the differences between artists like Count Basie and Duke Ellington, Charlie Parker and John Coltrane. They eventually introduced me to Grover Washington Jr., and that opened another door for me.
Q: What did learning to listen teach you about becoming a musician?
Charles Langford: Listening is everything. Before you can really express yourself, you have to understand what you're hearing. You learn about tone, phrasing, rhythm, space and emotion. My family gave me that foundation very early.
Q: You studied with some extraordinary jazz masters, including Billy Harper, Donald Byrd, Barry Harris, Archie Shepp and Yusef Lateef. How did those experiences shape you?
Charles Langford: Every one of those musicians brought something different. Studying with people who had developed such strong musical voices taught me the importance of discipline, knowledge and individuality. You can learn the fundamentals from great teachers, but eventually you have to discover your own voice.
Q: You've performed with artists across jazz, blues and R&B, including The Temptations, Solomon Burke, Norman Connors and Mighty Sam McClain. What have those experiences taught you?
Charles Langford: They taught me how important it is to be prepared and adaptable. Every artist has a different way of approaching music. You have to listen, understand what the music requires and contribute without losing your own identity. Performing with experienced artists gives you lessons you carry with you for the rest of your life.
Q: How would you describe your sound today?
Charles Langford: I would describe it as rooted in jazz but open to contemporary expression. I don't want to put myself in a box. My goal is to make music that feels authentic and connects with people. If someone hears my music and feels something, then I've accomplished what I set out to do.
Q: What do you believe makes jazz such a lasting art form?
Charles Langford: Jazz represents freedom, expression and storytelling. It has a history, but it is also constantly evolving. You can respect the tradition while still creating something new. That's what makes it so powerful.
Q: What do you want people to hear when they listen to “Savor”?
Charles Langford: I want them to hear the emotion. I want them to feel the warmth of the saxophone and enjoy the melody. Most importantly, I want people to take their time with it. Don't just hear it in the background. Savor it.
Q: After decades in music, what continues to inspire you?
Charles Langford: The music itself continues to inspire me. There is always something new to learn. There is always another melody, another sound or another way to communicate. As long as I can create and perform, I feel there is more music ahead of me.
Q: What does this new chapter with “Savor” represent for you?
Charles Langford: It represents continuing the journey. I've been writing music since I was a teenager, and the journey has taken me through so many different experiences. “Savor” allows me to bring all of those years of learning, performing and listening into one recording. It is another chapter, but certainly not the final one.
Charles Langford's new single “Savor” is available September 25, 2026, on all major digital streaming platforms.
For more information, music and updates, visit www.charleslangfordmusic.com and follow Charles Langford on social media at @charleslangfordmusic.
With a musical journey that began in his teenage years and has continued through decades of study, performance and recording, Charles Langford understands that great music is not simply about playing the right notes.
It is about creating a feeling and giving listeners a reason to stop, listen and connect.
“Savor” captures that philosophy beautifully. Smooth, soulful and sophisticated, the recording brings together Langford's expressive saxophone artistry and Michael Broening's polished contemporary jazz production.
More than a new single, it is an invitation to slow down, listen closely and appreciate the moment, one note at a time.