Quick Facts
Summary
Chris White is a British saxophonist and flautist born in 1955, known for touring with Robbie Williams from 1999 to 2003. He previously performed with Dire Straits, Paul McCartney, and Mick Jagger, and continues to tour with The Dire Straits Experience. His career spans jazz, rock, and orchestral pop.Biography
Personal LifeChris White was born on 13 July 1955 in Bristol, England. He began playing saxophone at age 13 while attending Lawrence Weston Secondary School and later joined the National Youth Jazz Orchestra. His early career included touring with French singer France Gall and performing in jazz and rock ensembles. White continues to live and work in the UK and remains active in live performance and studio recording.
The Robbie Williams BandChris White joined the Robbie Williams Live Band in 1999 as a saxophonist and flautist. He performed as part of the horn section through 2003, contributing to live arrangements and ensemble work during Robbie's early solo tours. His role included saxophone, flute, and occasional percussion, supporting tracks across pop, swing, and orchestral styles. White appeared in concert footage and televised specials, including performances from the Sing When You're Winning and Escapology eras.
His background in jazz and rock added depth to Robbie's live sound, particularly during large-scale productions that featured full brass sections. Chris was part of a lineup that included fellow horn players Paul Spong, Dave Bishop, Neil Sidwell, and Simon Gardner.
Other Projects and AppearancesChris White is best known for his work with Dire Straits, joining the band in 1985 and performing on their final world tours: Brothers in Arms (1985–1986) and On Every Street (1991–1992). He played saxophone, flute, backing vocals, and percussion, and appeared at major events including Live Aid (1985) and Nelson Mandela's 70th Birthday Concert (1988). He also performed on Dire Straits' albums On Every Street and On the Night.
White has recorded and toured with Paul McCartney, Mick Jagger, Chris De Burgh, Bryan Ferry, and Tom Jones. He released a solo album, Shadowdance, in 1991, blending jazz-rock and fusion styles. He was a member of The Notting Hillbillies and later joined The Straits and The Dire Straits Experience, tribute bands featuring former members of Dire Straits. As of 2024, he continues to tour internationally with The Dire Straits Experience.
His career reflects a blend of technical skill, ensemble strength, and long-term collaboration across genres including rock, jazz, country, and blues.