ARTIST BIO

**Leo Kim – Jazz Guitarist & Composer**

Leo Kim is a jazz guitarist and composer based in New York City, bringing a fresh, contemporary voice to the rich traditions of jazz. A graduate of William Paterson University’s jazz program and a Master’s in Music from NYU, Leo has studied with jazz greats like John Scofield, Peter Bernstein, and Alex Sipiagen. His debut album, *Already But Not Yet*, released on Spotify and Apple Music, reveals a guitarist with a unique sound—drawing from the influence of legends like Wes Montgomery, Miles Davis, and John Coltrane, but with a voice that is entirely his own.

Leo’s music is a seamless fusion of tradition and innovation, combining soulful, swinging grooves with a modern, understated elegance. His playing is both melodic and adventurous, offering listeners a deep, emotional experience that’s both reflective and forward-thinking. As a performer, Leo brings a compelling energy to the stage, blending intellectual depth with the kind of raw musicality that connects with audiences on a personal level.

While new to the scene, Leo is already making waves in New York City’s vibrant jazz community, having performed at venues such as Shrine, Silvana, Fiction Bar, and Pianos, as well as private events and corporate gigs. Whether in an intimate setting or on a larger stage, Leo's performances offer a dynamic, engaging experience that reflects his commitment to bringing jazz to new audiences.

With a sound that is contemporary yet timeless, Leo Kim is a rising voice in jazz, blending tradition with innovation and ready to make a lasting impact. His music is perfect for venues looking to showcase new talent with a unique sound that resonates with both jazz purists and new listeners alike.

**Listen to Leo's music on Spotify or Apple Music and discover why his voice is one you won’t want to miss.**

 

"Birth of an Album: Recording 'Already But Not Yet'" 

"Birth of an Album: Recording 'Already But Not Yet'"

Jazz albums are kind of like time capsules. We recorded this one on May 7th in Greenwich Village, just as New York was starting to feel alive again after Covid. We kept it simple –  guitar amp on one end of the room, drums in the middle, and bass over on the far side. 

The music was new to everyone including myself.  We had a quick run through of the music, but didn't have a chance to really play these songs together.  Even when it came to the standards, 26-2 and I Should Care (in 5/4 meter), we decided to stay away from tunes we had played a lot and were super-comfortable with.  Since the original tunes would be fresh and raw, we wanted to choose standards that could balance that.    

When I listen back now, I notice things I could have played differently, and I think I could do a better now than I did then. But that's not the point. What we captured that day was real. It was us, in that room, bringing these songs to life for the very first time.

 

Latest Track

Here's the link to my FIRST, studio recording.  Recorded live (in one room) over the course of a few hours in the fabulous - when stuff is working ;) -James Dolan studios in NYC.

Already, Not Yet

Leo Kim

A demo album of some of my tunes and a couple of standards... Available on streaming platforms and for purchase on Apple Music

https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/leokim/already-not-yet?

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Studio Shots