"Blue Skies" from Kenny G's 2021 album New Standards features the saxophonist on soprano saxophone in a gentle ballad in E-flat. Co-written by Kenny G and Randy Waldman, the piece should not be confused with the Irving Berlin standard of the same name. Moving at approximately 76 BPM, the composition unfolds with the lush, carefully arranged production that has characterized Kenny G's recordings throughout his career. His soprano saxophone tone is warm and breathy, floating above the accompaniment with the effortless quality that has made him the most commercially successful instrumentalist of his generation. The slightly brighter tempo compared to some of the album's slowest ballads gives the piece a more uplifted, optimistic character, consistent with the hopeful imagery of its title. Kenny G's approach to composition on New Standards emphasizes strong, memorable melodies that function almost as songs without words, each one designed to create a specific emotional atmosphere. The collaboration with Waldman, an accomplished pianist, arranger, and producer who has worked with a wide range of artists, brings a slightly different creative perspective to the album alongside the Afanasieff and Hirsh collaborations. The recording showcases Kenny G's enduring commitment to creating sophisticated, emotionally resonant instrumental music.
