Doug Lawrence, a Grammy Award-winning tenor saxophonist, has shaped the sound of jazz across the globe for more than four decades. Born in Lake Charles, Louisiana, and raised in Albuquerque, New Mexico, Doug grew up in a musical family, surrounded by the artistry of his father and siblings, who worked with legends like Jack Teagarden, Elvis Presley, and The Righteous Brothers. Doug's journey into music was guided by this rich legacy, as he began his training on the clarinet before transitioning to the saxophone. His talent quickly led to a scholarship at North Texas State University, where he laid the foundation for his lifelong career.

A Storied Career with the Count Basie Orchestra and Musical Giants

For over 25 years, Doug Lawrence has served as the featured tenor saxophone soloist with the legendary Count Basie Orchestra, where he carries on the tradition of jazz greats like Lester Young and Illinois Jacquet. This role has taken him to the world’s most prestigious stages, including Carnegie Hall, the Sydney Opera House, and the Blue Note Tokyo, performing for audiences that include six U.S. Presidents and international royalty. Doug's career reads like a who’s who of jazz, having performed and recorded with icons such as Frank Sinatra, Ella Fitzgerald, Sarah Vaughan, Ray Charles, and Dizzy Gillespie, to name just a few. More recently, he’s shared the stage with contemporary stars like Billie Eilish, Ledisi, and Andra Day, further cementing his relevance in today’s jazz landscape.

Championing Tradition and Innovation with the Otto Link Florida

Doug's mastery of the saxophone is evident in his ability to blend traditional jazz with a modern touch, a quality that is amplified by his use of the Otto Link Florida mouthpiece. His sound is a tribute to the soul of jazz, with an added clarity and edge that speaks to both his technical prowess and the enduring legacy of Otto Link. Doug’s transition to the Florida V was a deliberate choice, aligning with his philosophy of blending the past with the present to create a sound that is both timeless and innovative. His journey with this mouthpiece is a testament to the enduring quality and versatility of Otto Link, an instrument that allows Doug to continue pushing the boundaries of his musical expression.

Dedication Beyond the Music: Stewarding Legacy and Inspiring the Next Generation

Doug Lawrence's impact extends far beyond his own performance; he is deeply committed to education and mentorship. Regularly appearing as a guest clinician and artist-in-residence at universities and jazz camps worldwide, Doug's passion lies in helping the next generation of musicians find their voice and refine their craft. In 2023, Doug's dedication to his home state's musical heritage was honored with his induction into the New Mexico Music Hall of Fame, and in 2024, he earned another Grammy award with the Count Basie Orchestra, solidifying his status as one of the greats in jazz.

Doug is not just a musician; he is a true custodian of the jazz tradition. His commitment to nurturing the Otto Link legacy and the genres he plays within is paralleled by his dedication to the legacies of his musical mentors and predecessors. As much as he values his own role in the history of jazz, Doug is devoted to making a difference in the lives of those around him—whether it’s through the music he plays or the wisdom he imparts to the next generation. For Doug, jazz is more than a genre; it's a living legacy that he feels deeply responsible to steward into the future.