Contemporary Jazz Saxophonist Donald Hayes Releases New Single 'A Funky Attitude'

The lead single from his 'Soul Searching' album was named Mediabase's No. 1 Single of the Year.

Published on Feb. 18, 2026

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Contemporary jazz saxophonist Donald Hayes has released a new single, 'A Funky Attitude,' from his album 'Soul Searching.' The lead single from the album, 'Longing For You' featuring GRAMMY®‑nominated bassist Nathan East, was named Mediabase's No. 1 Single of the Year. Hayes wrote and produced both tracks, drawing inspiration from personal experiences and a desire to connect with listeners.

Why it matters

Donald Hayes has established himself as a leading contemporary jazz saxophonist, known for his emotive and heart-driven performances. The success of his previous single 'Longing For You' and the release of his new single 'A Funky Attitude' showcase his ability to create music that resonates with audiences and solidifies his position in the genre.

The details

Hayes wrote and produced 'A Funky Attitude,' which features a tight rhythmic pocket with Andrew Gouche's rubbery basslines, drummer Jay Williams, pianist Tracy Carter, and guitarist Jonathan Dubose. The song is about a confident woman who walks into a room with her head held high. 'Soul Searching' also features appearances by several notable artists, including Robin Thicke, Brian Culbertson, and Hayes's mentor, Derrick Jackson.

  • On Friday (February 13), Hayes released the follow-up single, 'A Funky Attitude.'

The players

Donald Hayes

A contemporary jazz saxophonist who has released a new single, 'A Funky Attitude,' from his album 'Soul Searching.'

Nathan East

A GRAMMY®‑nominated bassist who appeared on Hayes's previous single, 'Longing For You.'

Adam Hawley

A Billboard chart-topping guitarist who appeared on Hayes's previous single, 'Longing For You.'

Andrew Gouche

The bassist who contributed rubbery basslines to Hayes's new single, 'A Funky Attitude.'

Derrick Jackson

Hayes's mentor, who appeared on the 'Soul Searching' album.

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What they’re saying

“I always write and perform everything heart first. I honestly believe what comes from the heart reaches the heart. 'Longing For You' is about passion, and I've gotten so many comments about how the song makes people feel. I'm grateful for that. Every time I shared the song with friends, there was an instant connection, but I never imagined it would become the No. 1 single of the year. Its success means the song reached the hearts of listeners.”

— Donald Hayes

“This song is about a woman with a lot of pride who walks into a room with her head held high in a good and confident way. There's something really funky and cool about that to me.”

— Donald Hayes

The takeaway

Donald Hayes's success with his previous single 'Longing For You' and the release of his new single 'A Funky Attitude' demonstrate his ability to create contemporary jazz music that resonates emotionally with listeners. His heart-driven approach and collaborations with talented musicians have solidified his position as a leading voice in the genre.