Jul 17, 2025 12:44 PM
DownBeat’s 73rd Annual Critics Poll: One for the Record Books
You see before you what we believe is the largest and most comprehensive Critics Poll in the history of jazz. DownBeat…
Late jazz legends often become the subject of memorial concerts and albums years after their passing, but an annual tribute to Charlie Parker gives that formula a fresh twist—a “21-Sax Salute” will take place at the saxophonist’s grave site next month.
Held yearly on a weekend close to Bird’s birthday (Aug. 29), the event features a collective performance and will be conducted Aug. 26 at 1 p.m. Saxophonists and other musicians from Kansas City and nearby areas will be on hand to celebrate the life of one of the most influential jazz figures of all time. The “21-Sax Salute” was initially started by the late Eddie Baker, president of the Charlie Parker Memorial Foundation, and is now lead by saxophonist Ahmed Alaadeen and Dean Hampton. The tribute is open to all instrumentalists, regardless of musical ability, as well as the general public.
Parker’s grave site is located in Blue Summit, Mo., just outside Kansas City. The address is 8604 E. Truman Road. Musicians are asked to report at 12:30 pm. Go here for a map with directions.
James Brandon Lewis earned honors for Artist of the Year and Tenor Saxophonist of the Year. Three of his recordings placed in the Albums of the Year category.
Jul 17, 2025 12:44 PM
You see before you what we believe is the largest and most comprehensive Critics Poll in the history of jazz. DownBeat…
Galper was often regarded as an underrated master of his craft.
Jul 22, 2025 10:58 AM
Hal Galper, a pianist, composer and arranger who enjoyed a substantial performing career but made perhaps a deeper…
Chuck Mangione on the cover of the May 8, 1975, edition of DownBeat.
Jul 29, 2025 1:00 PM
Chuck Mangione, one of the most popular trumpeters in jazz history, passed away on July 24 at home in Rochester, New…
“Hamiet was one of the most underrated musicians ever,” says Whitaker of baritone saxophonist Hamiet Bluiett.
Jul 8, 2025 7:30 AM
At 56, Rodney Whitaker, professor of jazz bass and director of jazz studies at Michigan State University, is equally…
Jul 17, 2025 11:35 AM
The DownBeat Critics Poll provides a wonderful snapshot of the jazz scene today, with much to explore and many great…
