As his new single “Don’t Look Back” edges toward the Billboard Top 40 Smooth Jazz Songs chart, saxophonist Reggie Codrington is celebrating International Jazz Day with gratitude — for the music that shaped him, the father who inspired him, and the resilience that carried him through a lifetime of physical challenges.
Codrington was born with Ataxic Cerebral Palsy (ACP), a condition that affects muscle coordination and required nine surgeries before he turned 13. His father, Ray Codrington — named the third best trumpeter in the world by DownBeat in 1975 — found a small, curved saxophone that Reggie could manage despite limited finger dexterity. That instrument became the foundation of a career many told him was impossible.
“Jazz has given me purpose. I was told ‘no’ so many times that I had to dig deep, surround myself with positive people, and lean on God for strength. That made me work twice as hard,” said Codrington, who grew up in and still lives in Fayetteville, North Carolina.
“Jazz means happiness, freedom, and peace,” he added. “Those who said I’d never perform were wrong — I feel closest to God when I’m playing.”
Codrington grew up immersed in jazz thanks to his father, who introduced him to giants of the genre.
“I remember Dizzy Gillespie calling the house,” he said. “Dad recorded with Eddie Harris on ‘Freedom Jazz Dance,’ and because of him I met Sonny Rollins, Dexter Gordon, Harold Vick, and Freddie Cole.”
“Don’t Look Back” was inspired by encouragement from Codrington’s mother to focus on the future rather than past disappointments. The midtempo R&B‑jazz groove showcases his melodic phrasing and warm tone. It marks his first collaboration with producer Nelson Braxton, a member of the Braxton Brothers and known for producing multiple Billboard No. 1 hits. The two discovered instant chemistry and are already working on the next single.
Another highlight Codrington reflects on during International Jazz Day was opening for three‑time GRAMMY® winner Ramsey Lewis. “He called me the next day and said, ‘You are a hard act to follow!’ That still inspires me.”
Codrington is currently working on his 12th album, The Ray Codrington Signature Series, a tribute to his late father.
Codrington’s story of overcoming was featured on WRAL‑TV: https://www.wral.com/video/tar-heel-traveler-a-local-saxophone-player-who-has-overcome-the-odds/19718723/
For more information, visit www.reggiecodringtonmusic.com.
