Kai Harney
Homewood,IL
Summary
Experienced professional in the music industry with understanding of various musical genres and styles. Eager to utilize my performance and creative background and skillset to the position of Music Manager.
Overview
2026
2026
years of professional experience
Work History
Musician/Saxophonist
Self Employed
2012 - Current
- Performed throughout the Chicagoland area with many Chicago Blues Hall of Famers.
- Performed in corporate/wedding events as a soloist with DJ.
- Headlined as a featured soloist with variety shows on cruise lines.
- Traveled the Caribbean, South Pacific, Pacific Northwest, Mediterranean, Northern Europe and performed as part of the BB King All Stars at Sea through Holland America Cruise Line.
- Toured Spain and Morocco with a concert and jazz ensemble.
- Freelanced in LA with residencies at nightclubs, resorts and bars.
- Featured as part of the production shows, show band, latin ensemble, jazz ensemble, horn trio, and soloist/aux percussionist with Carnival Cruise Lines.
- Recorded, collaborated and produced with numerous artists, musicians and engineers all over the country.
- Opened for national touring acts like Badfish a Tribute to Sublime and O.A.R.
- Shared the stage with jazz musicians, Randy Brecker, Wayne Bergeron, Dave Pietro and Marshall Gilkes.
BB King All Star - Saxophonist
Beale Street Blues Company
Memphis, TN
11.2017 - Current
- Authenticity, purpose, form, appearance, following direction, awareness, attitude, professionalism, the ability to improvise and deal with adversity in the workplace were all a part of this job.
- Focused on Blues, sounds of Memphis, motown, and party dance music.
- Repertoire of up to 200+ without sheet music, transcribed by ear like the record.
- Lead rehearsal as musical director and created set lists accordingly.
Musician
Carnival Cruise Lines
Miami, FL
02.2017 - 09.2017
- Performed music of Jazz, Latin, Variety, and Themed sets (Motown, Disco, 80's, Classic Rock, Modern)
- Utilized effects pedals, loopers, and background tracks as part of a horn trio.
- Featured in production shows both in the pit and on stage as a soloist
- Transcribed and arranged music for sets.
Intern
Waiting Room Records
Normal, IL
08.2015 - 12.2015
- Assembled covers with appropriate CD's
- Organized online stock through Amazon and Discogs
- Assisted in operations for Record Store Day.
Intern
Stache Media/Red Distribution - Subdivision of Sony
New York, NY
01.2015 - 06.2015
- Targeted audience through Facebook, Snapchat, Instagram, YikYak, Tinder and more
- Established grassroots campaign in Bloomington-Normal, IL
- Promoted artists/products on and offline at demographic appropriate accounts
- Collaborated with campus organizations to host events and distribute products
Education
Bachelor of Science - Music Business
Illinois State University
Normal, Illinois, IL05.2016
Skills
- Working as part of a team or independently
- Flexibility
- Verbal and non verbal communication
- Situational awareness
- Understanding group dynamics
- Being able to work under pressure and improvise
- Leading by example
- Receiving and suggesting feedback
Timeline
BB King All Star - Saxophonist
Beale Street Blues Company
11.2017 - Current
Musician
Carnival Cruise Lines
02.2017 - 09.2017
Intern
Waiting Room Records
08.2015 - 12.2015
Intern
Stache Media/Red Distribution - Subdivision of Sony
01.2015 - 06.2015
Musician/Saxophonist
Self Employed
2012 - Current
Bachelor of Science - Music Business
Illinois State University