Waltz In Blue is an original composition co-written by Kenny G (Kenneth Gorelick) and Sam Hirsh, first appearing on Kenny G's 2021 album New Standards, released on Concord Jazz. As its title suggests, the piece is set in waltz time, a three-beat meter that distinguishes it within Kenny G's predominantly four-beat repertoire. The melody is lyrical and romantic, written for soprano saxophone over sophisticated ballad-style harmonies that draw on the harmonic language of 1950s and 1960s jazz standards. The composition features lush orchestral string arrangements by William Ross alongside piano, bass, drums, and keyboards, creating an elegant, swaying character that emphasizes melodic beauty and emotional warmth. The waltz rhythm gives the piece a distinctive gracefulness, setting it apart from the straight-ahead grooves found on much of the album. Waltz In Blue reflects the broader artistic vision of the New Standards project, which marked Kenny G's first studio album in six years and represented a deliberate shift toward crafting original melodies inspired by the classic American popular song tradition. Co-composer Sam Hirsh, who also plays piano on the recording, collaborated with Kenny G on several tracks for the album. The tune has not entered the broader jazz repertoire and remains primarily associated with its original recording, with no known cover versions by other artists.
