Mark Douthit

Mark Douthit is a premier Nashville saxophonist whose playing has become a signature element on recordings, broadcasts, and live shows across multiple genres. Born in Jonesboro, Arkansas, he began his formal jazz education at Middle Tennessee State University and the Cincinnati Conservatory, then earned a Bachelor of Music in Jazz Studies from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville—where he studied with renowned jazz educator Jerry Coker. Often described as one of the “most heard” players that many listeners don’t realize they know, Mark has contributed to a vast catalog of sessions and has recorded with a wide range of major artists. His work extends beyond albums into major motion-picture soundtracks and national radio/television commercials. He also provided the saxophone sound for CNN and Headline News for many years and spent three and a half years in the house band for TNN’s Prime Time Country. Mark’s artistry has earned industry recognition, including the 1997 Dove Award for “Instrumental Album of the Year” for The Players. As a leader, he released Groove (Hillsboro Records, 2002) and followed with December Morning (Green Hill Records, 2006). On the touring side, Mark performed with Grammy-winning guitarist Larry Carlton (2002–present) and toured with Vince Gill and Amy Grant (2006–2010), and he has also toured with Michael McDonald (2012-2020).