When faced with the choice between the football field and the musical stage, Tim Cunningham made a decision that would define his career—pursuing his passion for music. A talented saxophonist for more than half his life, Tim balanced both athletics and artistry during his college years at Michigan State University, where he played defense while simultaneously honing his musical craft. Although a football scholarship supported his education, his love for the saxophone ultimately led him to pass up an NFL contract in favor of a career in music.

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For decades, Tim has captivated audiences with his signature blend of smooth jazz and soulful R&B, described as smooth, sultry, cool, and funky. His high-energy, emotionally charged performances resonate with listeners across all musical genres. This unique and versatile style has afforded him the opportunity to share the stage with jazz luminaries such as Dave Koz, Norman Brown, Brian Culbertson, and George Benson. His deep R&B influences have also placed him alongside legendary acts including Earth, Wind & Fire, Cameo, Boyz II Men, Patti LaBelle, Frankie Beverly, Jeffrey Osborne, and the late Luther Vandross.

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In 1994, Tim signed with Atlantic Records, releasing his first major-label album, Right Turn Only, in 1996. Featuring collaborations with Will Downing, Brian Culbertson, Kevin Whalum, and Bobby Lyle, the album’s standout single, This is the Life, reached #19 on the Smooth Jazz Chart and garnered international airplay. His additional discography includes Sax Change Operation, A Change in Altotude, Waiting for Love, Inner Peace, and Manchester Road, which was distributed by Nite Breeze Music/Universal in 2008. In 2011, he released Reflection, a collection of original smooth jazz compositions, followed by Tim Cunningham Live in 2012, which showcased his dynamic stage presence through a selection of his favorite songs.

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Tim’s influence extends beyond live performances into television and film. He co-wrote and performed the theme song for 20th Century Fox’s The Bertice Berry Show and has appeared in multiple productions, including the feature film The Ghost Who Walks and three episodes of The Untouchables TV series. His work has also been featured on BET’s Jazz Central and in national commercial campaigns, including Budweiser. In 2021, his song Smile, co-written with Al Caldwell and featured on Waiting for Love, appeared in the film The Job, written and directed by Randy J. Goodwin.

A dedicated performer, Tim hosted and headlined the 1st Annual Smooth Jazz Cruise on Land in St. Louis in 2019, a landmark event featuring Brian Culbertson, Eric Darius, Grace Kelly, and Erin Bode, produced by Entertainment Cruises Productions in collaboration with the producers of the Smooth Jazz Cruise.

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After nearly a decade-long recording hiatus, Tim made a triumphant return in October 2022 with the release of Freedom, featuring his new single, Enough Said (Remix), which quickly climbed the Smooth Jazz Network, Radio Wave, and SmoothJazz.com charts.

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Rooted in strong Christian values and inspired by his mother’s influence, Tim maintains a deep connection between his music and his role as a family man. He has been happily married for over 32 years and has written and named songs after his wife and three children. His engaging and down-to-earth personality makes him a fan favorite, as he remains committed to connecting with audiences both on and off the stage. Whether delivering an electrifying live performance or personally greeting fans after a show, Tim’s passion for music and ability to touch hearts ensure that audiences keep coming back for more.