EP 111: The Universal Groove: Will Donato’s Story of Resilience

On this soulful episode of The Jazz Flyte Podcast, I have the pleasure of welcoming Will Donato, a powerhouse saxophonist, award-winning composer, and dynamic spirit in the smooth jazz world. With a Billboard-charting hit like Grand Slam, a string of collaborations with musical greats like Ricky Lawson, Al McKay, and Gerald Levert, and a long career of live shows and heartfelt music, Will has lived a life steeped in sound and service.

Will takes us back to the beginning—how a beat-up saxophone and his dad’s car stereo playing Me and Mrs. Jones lit a fire in him. He opens up about growing up in a musical household, practicing endlessly on family trips, and how Grover Washington Jr., David Sanborn, and Charlie Parker shaped his playing. But he also tells the stories you don’t always hear—how the saxophone became his stealth companion through every style imaginable, and how entertainment and adaptability have been his survival tools.

We go deep into the importance of originality in an age of replication, the influence of band culture on his stage presence, and how being a cancer survivor changed his perspective on life, music, and gratitude. Will shares the emotional story of his throat cancer diagnosis, his quiet journey to healing, and how it strengthened his sense of purpose.

We also talk about social media, artist mentorship, and his own podcast where he helps lift others over creative fences. Will is more than just a performer—he’s a curator of joy, a storyteller of survival, and a living groove of gratitude.

Whether you’re a fan of smooth jazz, a fellow artist navigating the hustle, or someone looking for hope through hardship, this episode will leave you inspired and connected.

Connect with Will: http://willdonato.com/