Dave Koz was born on March 27, 1963, in Los Angeles, California. From a young age, he showed a passion for music and began playing the saxophone at the age of 13. His love for the instrument only grew as he got older, and he knew he wanted to pursue a career in music.
After graduating from high school, Koz attended the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), where he studied mass communications. While in college, he continued to hone his musical skills and perform at local venues. It was during this time that he realized his true calling was in music, and he made the decision to pursue it full-time after graduating.
After finishing his studies at UCLA, Koz dove headfirst into the music industry. He began performing at various clubs and events, slowly building a name for himself in the jazz world. It wasn't long before he caught the attention of music producers and he was signed to Capitol Records in the late 1980s.
Throughout the 1990s, Koz released several successful albums that showcased his smooth jazz style and melodic saxophone playing. His album "Saxophonic" was a particularly big hit, earning him a Grammy Award nomination and a NAACP Image Award nomination.
In addition to his music career, Koz also dabbled in radio and television. He hosted his own radio program on 94.7 The Wave, where he showcased contemporary jazz musicians and interviewed industry professionals. The show was a hit among jazz fans and helped further solidify Koz's reputation as a prominent figure in the genre.
Koz also made appearances on television, including a memorable performance on an episode of "Desperate Housewives," which starred Eva Longoria. His hit song was featured on the show, introducing his music to a whole new audience.
In 2004, Koz publicly announced that he was gay in a news article. This revelation was met with an outpouring of support from fans and fellow musicians alike. Koz has since become an advocate for LGBTQ rights and has used his platform to raise awareness and promote acceptance.
Outside of his music career, Koz is also actively involved in various charitable causes, including organizations that support music education and LGBTQ youth. He is known for his philanthropy and dedication to giving back to the community.
Today, Dave Koz continues to tour and perform around the world, bringing his smooth jazz sound to audiences everywhere. His career has spanned decades and he remains a beloved figure in the music industry. With numerous accolades and a dedicated fan base, Koz's legacy is one that will undoubtedly stand the test of time.
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