Grammy-nominated composer, keyboardist and producer Philippe Saisse continues to shape the sound of contemporary jazz with a career defined by innovation, collaboration and chart-topping success. A recipient of France’s Medal of Chevalier des Arts et Lettres, Saisse has long balanced global fusion, urban grooves and cinematic scope — and in 2026, he remains at the creative peak of his multi-decade journey.

Following a remarkable run of #1 Billboard Smooth Jazz hits and the breakout success of his 2025 lo-fi hip-hop jazz reimagining of “Nougayork” — originally written for French icon Claude Nougaro — Saisse now returns with his vibrant new single, “City Sync.”

Inspired by the pulse of New York City, where Saisse has spent more than 35 years, “City Sync” captures the hypnotic rhythm of the streets through an infectious 86 BPM groove rooted in classic hip-hop jazz. Drawing subtle harmonic inspiration from John Coltrane’s “Giant Steps” while channeling the spirit of early NYC hip-hop pioneers like A Tribe Called Quest and De La Soul, the track blends crisp lo-fi textures with sophisticated chord movement rarely heard in smooth jazz.

For the recording, Saisse joined forces with contemporary sax star Eric Darius, a fellow #1 Billboard hitmaker. The two first connected on the Dave Koz Cruise and quickly recognized a shared musical chemistry. On “City Sync,” that chemistry comes alive as both artists deliberately play behind the beat, creating a laid-back yet deeply propulsive feel. The result is a sleek, soulful conversation between keys and saxophone that reflects both artists’ distinct voices while celebrating the city that inspires them.

“City Sync” follows a prolific period that includes Saisse’s chart successes with artists such as Candy Dulfer, Dave Koz and Rick Braun, collaborations with legendary guitarist Nile Rodgers, scoring the documentary Sitting Still about urban visionary Laurie Olin, and continued touring with Al DiMeola across the U.S., Europe and Japan. His 2009 solo album At World’s Edge earned a Grammy nomination, and his influence as a producer, arranger and performer continues to resonate across genres.

As he moves toward his forthcoming solo album, Saisse’s artistry reflects both reflection and forward motion. With “City Sync,” he distills decades of experience into a track that feels timeless yet unmistakably current — a sophisticated urban groove that keeps his New York state of mind firmly in sync with the future of jazz.