Branford Marsalis (born August 26, 1960) is an American saxophonist, composer, and bandleader. While primarily known for his work in jazz as the leader of the Branford Marsalis Quartet, he also performs frequently as a soloist with classical ensembles and pop groups. From 1992 to 1995 he led the Tonight Show Band.  Raised in New Orleans, he attended Southern University in Baton Rouge, then transferred to Berklee College of Music in Boston. Big band experience with Art Blakey, Lionel Hampton and Clark Terry was a prelude to his joining the Jazz Messengers with his brother Wynton.  The pair toured with Herbie Hancock and founded the Wynton Marsalis Quintet (with Kenny Kirkland, Charnett Moffet and Jeff "Tain" Watts) in 1982.  From 1985 to 1999, he was a regular in Sting's bands and studio projects. Between 1986 and 1992, the Branford Marsalis Quintet (with Kirkland, Watts and Robert Hurst) released four albums, the last of which I Heard You Twice the First Time won a Grammy. 

The Branford Marsalis Quartet received another Grammy Award in 2001 for their album Contemporary Jazz.  In September 2006, Branford Marsalis was awarded an Honorary Doctorate of Music from Berklee College of Music. Marsalis, with his father (Ellis) and brothers (Jason, Wynton , Delfeayo) were group recipients of the 2011 NEA Jazz Masters Award.