“Careless Whisper” by George Michael is one of the most memorable pop ballads of all time, and its emotional depth owes much to its unforgettable saxophone riff. From the first breathy notes, the sax solo pulls listeners into a nostalgic and romantic soundscape that has stood the test of time. While the vocals and lyrics are powerful in their own right, the saxophone is what truly defines the song’s identity. But what kind of saxophone was used to create this timeless sound? Who played it, and how did they achieve that specific tone? In this article, we explore every detail behind the saxophone used in “Careless Whisper.”

The Saxophone Behind the Sound: Make and Model

The saxophone heard in “Careless Whisper” is an alto saxophone. While there has been debate over the exact brand and model, many sources and interviews point to the fact that the solo was played on a Selmer Mark VI alto saxophone, widely regarded as one of the finest saxophones ever made. The Selmer Mark VI is known for its warm tone, rich projection, and flexibility in both jazz and pop music. Its craftsmanship and legacy make it the go-to choice for many professional saxophonists.

Why the Selmer Mark VI?

Released in the 1950s, the Selmer Mark VI quickly became the industry standard. It features hand-built French craftsmanship, and many legendary jazz musicians, including John Coltrane and Cannonball Adderley, swore by it. The Mark VI’s unique bore design and responsive keywork allow for expressive phrasing, something that the “Careless Whisper” solo demands. It’s no surprise that the iconic riff was likely recorded using this horn.

The Man Behind the Solo: Steve Gregory

Though George Michael receives most of the attention for “Careless Whisper,” the saxophone solo was performed by session saxophonist Steve Gregory. A respected British jazz and pop sax player, Gregory was brought in after several other saxophonists failed to capture the desired tone George Michael envisioned. Gregory’s phrasing, breath control, and emotional touch were exactly what the track needed. He used his personal alto saxophone—believed to be the Selmer Mark VI—to lay down the unforgettable solo that helped cement the song’s place in pop history.

Recording the Solo: A Painstaking Process

Recording the sax solo for “Careless Whisper” wasn’t as smooth as many would imagine. According to interviews, it took multiple takes and even different players before Michael was satisfied. In fact, it’s reported that more than four saxophonists were hired before Steve Gregory arrived at the studio. George Michael had a very specific sound in mind—one that conveyed sensuality, regret, and longing—and it took someone with a fine touch to deliver that emotion through the horn. Gregory’s tone, likely shaped by the Selmer Mark VI and his personal technique, made the final cut.

Tonal Qualities of the “Careless Whisper” Sax Solo

One reason the “Careless Whisper” solo is so famous is its unique tone. The sound is breathy, smooth, and sultry, qualities often associated with the alto saxophone but heightened by the musician’s articulation and the instrument’s design. The Selmer Mark VI, in particular, is capable of producing a warm yet bold sound that’s ideal for emotional solos. Steve Gregory also used a soft reed and a medium chamber mouthpiece, which contributed to the smoky and expressive quality of the solo.

Emotional Depth and Dynamic Control

The solo opens with a glissando that falls directly into the heart of the song’s melody. This technique, where the player slides smoothly between notes, requires strong embouchure and breath support. Gregory’s use of dynamics—shifting between louder, more expressive lines and softer, introspective notes—adds a sense of human vulnerability to the solo. This contrast in volume and tone mirrors the song’s lyrical themes of regret and lost love.

The Saxophone’s Role in 1980s Pop Music

During the 1980s, saxophone solos were a staple in pop music. From hits like “Baker Street” to “Who Can It Be Now?” the saxophone became a symbol of sophistication and sensuality. “Careless Whisper” stands out because it doesn’t just add flavor—it drives the emotional narrative. It wasn’t just a break between verses; it was a voice of its own. And the alto saxophone, especially one with the tone of a Selmer Mark VI, was the perfect vehicle for that voice.

Other Pop Hits Featuring the Alto Sax

To better understand the context of “Careless Whisper,” it helps to look at other pop songs from the same era that relied on the saxophone. Songs like “Just the Way You Are” by Billy Joel, “Your Latest Trick” by Dire Straits, and “Baker Street” by Gerry Rafferty all featured prominent sax solos, many of them performed on alto saxophones. These tracks showcased the versatility of the instrument and its power to add emotional weight to a song.

Gear Matters: Mouthpieces, Reeds, and Setup

While the saxophone model plays a huge role in the final tone, it’s not the only factor. Steve Gregory used a specific setup that included a medium chamber mouthpiece and a soft reed. The combination allows for easier vibrato and smoother transitions between notes. These choices are critical in producing the warm, breathy tone heard in the song. The soft reed, likely a 2 or 2.5 strength, allows for subtle articulation and tonal bending, which are prominent in the solo.

Microphones and Studio Effects

The sound we hear in the final version of “Careless Whisper” was also shaped by the studio environment. A high-quality condenser microphone was used to capture the nuances of Gregory’s performance. Reverb and EQ adjustments helped enhance the warmth and depth of the sound. However, none of this would have mattered without the right player and the right saxophone. The raw performance was already moving before post-production.

Conclusion

To answer the question—what saxophone was used in “Careless Whisper”? It was most likely a Selmer Mark VI alto saxophone, played by the masterful Steve Gregory. But more than just the instrument, it was the combination of the player’s artistry, the instrument’s quality, and the producer’s vision that brought the solo to life. The legacy of this performance continues to influence musicians and captivate listeners around the world.

The saxophone in “Careless Whisper” is more than a musical element—it’s a character in the story. Its tone, phrasing, and emotion have made it an iconic part of pop history. Whether you’re a musician, a fan, or someone simply captivated by that soulful sound, knowing the instrument behind the magic adds a deeper appreciation for the artistry involved.