Dahi Divine

Of course you become a figure in the jazz scene if your first big performance is on the horn line with the Dave Matthews Band at the Grammy Awards -- however, it’s not easy getting there!  Dahi Divine burst onto the scene upon being selected, from over 800 auditions nationwide to perform at the Grammys and with Matthews.  This experience also provided the chance for Divine to perform with legendary James Moody, Kenny Burrell and Hubert Laws among others.  Divine‘s first album project is titled, The Element. His vibe for this band was for each of his musical colleagues to add their part -- and to be that element that makes the formula work.

As the composer, creator, and arranger of the music as well as a tenor player, Divine is the voice of the band.  Brett Williams, piano prodigy also working with bassist Marcus Miller, stirs in his harmonic components of soul and gospel influence and his strong lyrical presence.  Anton DeFade holds down a rock-solid bottom on the bass.  And, just when you think it’s time to cool off -- Justin Faulkner, who also performs as the drummer with the Branford Marsalis Quartet, comes in as a catalyst that creates the reaction that brings the fire.  Divine characterizes his music as “soul music”.  His goal is “to rhythmically respect the tradition of swing while exploring new and different musical concepts and styles”.  Divine is undeniably considered a prolific writer and emerging musician that delights audiences with his energetic performances and unique, melodic arrangements.

Divine began his musical education with some of Philadelphia’s most distinguished jazz musicians and programs: renowned saxophonists Larry McKenna and Tommy Grice; and the Settlement Music School, and the Philadelphia Clef Club of Jazz Ensemble.

Divine’s quartet headlined TGI FRIDAYS™ first summer “Live Jazz” series for the last two summers. At the kick-off of the EXIT Zero Jazz Festival, Divine headlined the well-known Carney’s Main Room to the delight of all within earshot.  His quartets and trios became fan favorites at the regional festivals: the Cape May Jazz Festival, Atlantic City’s “Chicken Bone Beach” Festival, and the 2013 Center City Jazz Festival as well as many venues in Philadelphia and New York, including Chris’ Jazz Café, the Philadelphia Art Museum ‘s Art After Five”, and Small’s Jazz Club, The Underground, The Brass Bottle, etc.