Sax in the City: Birmingham’s Holiday Celebration with Mike Phillips
This holiday season, Birmingham is getting a special treat as world-renowned saxophonist Mike Phillips brings his explosive, genre-bending sound to the historic Carver Theatre. Known for his unmatched energy, soaring improvisations, and deep connection to both music and sports culture, Phillips promises a night that blends holiday cheer with world-class musicianship.
If you’ve never seen Mike Phillips live, you’re in for something different — something bigger, bolder, and unmistakably Mike.
The First Musician Ever Signed to the Jordan Brand
One of the most unique chapters in Mike Phillips’ storied career is his historic partnership with Michael Jordan. Phillips became the first and only musician ever signed to the iconic Jordan Brand, a testament to his cultural impact and MJ’s personal admiration for his craft.
Michael Jordan has consistently praised Phillips not only as a musician but as an entertainer whose style, discipline, and excellence mirror the ethos of the Jordan legacy.
Being part of the Jordan Brand family has positioned Phillips as a true crossover figure — a musician who moves seamlessly between the worlds of music, sports, and urban culture. In a recent interview with DJ Chocolate, Mike shared that he owns more than 1,200 pairs of Jordans.
A Musical Force Who Stood Beside Legends
Mike Phillips’ résumé reads like a tour through music history. His stage has shared the company of giants, including Stevie Wonder, Prince, Michael Jackson and Jill Scott just to name a few.
From performing on Stevie Wonder’s tours to electrifying audiences during Prince’s legendary Madison Square Garden run, Mike Phillips has truly stood in rare air — very few musicians can say they’ve toured and performed with both the King of Pop and the Purple One. One of his earliest breakthrough moments even placed him at Nelson Mandela’s home, sharing the stage with Stevie Wonder, Michael Jackson, and Prince — a nearly unimaginable convergence of musical greatness.
His blend of jazz, R&B, hip-hop, soul, and gospel has made him a favorite for festivals, award shows, and concert tours across the globe.
Hits, Albums, and Standout Performances
Fans know Mike Phillips for his signature fusion of smooth jazz and streetwise swagger. His albums have produced crowd favorites such as:
- “Uncommon Denominator”
- “M.P.3”
- “Pulling Off the Covers”
- “Flava in Ya Ear” (Sax Remix)
- “Set It Off”
His covers, originals, and live improvisations have become viral favorites, inspiring countless young musicians to pick up the sax.
Phillips is also famously known for walking into the audience mid-performance, turning strangers into friends and concerts into shared moments.
A Sports Fan With Skills — and a National Anthem Favorite
Beyond the stage, Mike Phillips is a die-hard sports fan with real athletic chops. Known for his smooth jump shot, on-court competitiveness, and impressive golf game, Phillips is regularly spotted at NBA, NFL, MLB, and collegiate sporting events.
He’s among the most requested National Anthem performers in the country, known for turning each rendition into a soulful, improvised moment. Mike also spends time performing with and hanging out with some of America’s biggest entertainment icons.
Mike has performed at:
- NBA All-Star Weekend
- NFL Kickoff events
- Major League Baseball games
- Collegiate championships
- Celebrity golf tournaments
Sports fans love him. Musicians and his peers respect him. MJ co-signed him. It’s a rare combination.
A Holiday Concert Experience You Don’t Want to Miss
Mike Phillips’ upcoming performance at the Carver Theatre will blend Christmas classics, fan favorites, soulful improvisations, and the kind of holiday energy only he can deliver.
Set inside one of Birmingham’s most historic cultural venues, this show is the perfect holiday outing — whether you’re a jazz lover, R&B fan, sports junkie, or simply someone who wants to feel good music during the season.
What to Expect on Saturday, December 13th at the Carver Theatre:
- High-energy solos
- Soulful holiday melodies
- Jaw-dropping improvisations
- Classic Mike Phillips charm
- A festive atmosphere perfect for Birmingham’s holiday nightlife
Birmingham, Get Ready
This isn’t just another holiday show — it’s a Birmingham Christmas moment.
Mike Phillips brings the heat, the heritage, and the holiday spirit.
And the Carver Theatre is the perfect stage.
A Holiday Night You Don’t Want to Miss
Birmingham’s Magic City holiday season wouldn’t be complete without a celebration of music, culture, and community—and this show delivers all of that and more. Expect a night of high-energy jazz, soulful holiday rhythms, and musical storytelling that connects generations.
And as if Mike Phillips weren’t enough…
Special Guest: Alvin Garrett
Grammy nominated songwriter and soulful Birmingham favorite Alvin Garrett will take the stage to add his smooth vocals and powerful storytelling to the night.
Hosted by Mike Riley
A recognizable stage personality in jazz culture Mike Riley will guide the evening with charisma, humor, and good times.
And in the Throwback Mix: DJ Chocolate
DJ Chocolate will keep the energy flowing thowing in a taste of classic throwbacks, R&B gems, and holiday vibes that sets the tone before main event.
Birmingham—This Is Your Holiday Concert of the Year
We can’t wait to experience Mike Phillips inside the historic Carver Theatre (Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame) — a venue where Alabama’s greatest jazz legends once took the stage and helped shape the state’s musical identity. Seeing a world-class musician of his caliber bring his energy, artistry, and signature saxophone sound to a theater with such deep cultural roots is a perfect celebration of Birmingham’s music heritage. This will be a night that bridges generations, honors tradition, and reminds us why live music in the Magic City hits different.
General admission and VIP Tickets are available online at JazzHall.com or by calling Square at (205) 400-4970.
