Zem Audu

Nigerian-born, London-raised, and Brooklyn-based saxophonist, composer and producer

Nigerian-born, London-raised, and Brooklyn-based Zem Audu is an award winning saxophonist, composer and producer with a fresh sound that blends contemporary jazz, and soulful grooves. In 2008 whilst still living in London he won 1st place in the Worshipful Company Of Musicians Jazz Competition. He was nominated for a Parliamentary Jazz award for Best Jazz Saxophonist, and was awarded the Yamaha Jazz Scholars award.

His musical journey began at childhood when he taught himself classical guitar and piano before choosing the saxophone as his main form of expression. Then he studied independently with Courtney Pine, and with Jean Toussaint at Trinity College of Music, graduating top of his class in 2008. Zem has had the great pleasure of playing and recording with many of the worlds finest musicians including: Jason Moran, Frank McComb, Ernest Ranglin, Mica Paris, The Black Arm Band, Plan B, Paloma Faith, and Hugh Masekela.

In 2010 Audu moved to Brooklyn and began touring with the legendary Skatalites. Now Zem is performing and recording as an artist in NYC. His work is garnering attention from the international press with interviews in the New York Times, and his latest studio album ‘Spirits’ featuring Mike Stern comes out this year..