Sep 3, 2026 10:44 AM
In Memoriam: Cassandra Wilson, 1955–2026
Cassandra Wilson, a singer, songwriter and producer who was one of the most acclaimed and successful jazz vocalists of…
Mark Samuels, president and founder of New Orleans-based record label, Basin Street Records, has announced the label’s renewal of its exclusive recording deal with Kermit Ruffins. The first recording of the three-record deal is scheduled to begin next month with a proposed spring 2009 release date.
“This is a momentous and sentimental occasion,” said Samuels. “Kermit Ruffins was our first artist signed in October 1997, the first to record in November 1997 and the first CD release in February 1998. It also marks the first new contract for Basin Street since October of 2003.”
Ruffins, a New Orleans native, has released six CDs on Basin Street, including: The Barbecue Swingers Live (1998), Swing This! (1999), 1533 St. Phillip Street (2001), Big Easy (2002), Throwback (2005) and Live At Vaughan’s (2007).
More info: basinstreetrecords.com
Wilson’s ability to connect to audiences helped her to win two Grammy awards and multiple other accolades. She was named an NEA Jazz Master in 2022.
Sep 3, 2026 10:44 AM
Cassandra Wilson, a singer, songwriter and producer who was one of the most acclaimed and successful jazz vocalists of…
“The love from the jazz and music community restored my faith in humanity,” Walia wrote in an online post upon his release from detention at an ICE facility.
Aug 18, 2026 2:15 PM
Indian jazz guitarist and composer Pritesh Walia has been released after being unexpectedly detained by ICE and taken…
Percussionist Poncho Sanchez was among the artists scheduled to perform at the now-canceled inaugural LA Jazz Festival.
Aug 11, 2026 12:53 PM
The inaugural LA Jazz Festival, originally scheduled to run Aug. 7–23 with dozens of events across Los Angeles’…
Bertoncini was a specialist and advocate for the nylon-string acoustic guitar, turning down high-profile opportunities that were unsuited to the sound and techniques that he used with that instrument.
Sep 1, 2026 11:06 AM
Gene Bertoncini, an esteemed jazz guitarist, composer, arranger and educator, died Aug. 29 at the Lillian Booth Actors…
A solo concert by saxophonist Joshua Redman will close the first night of the Hyde Park Jazz Festival on Sept. 26.
Sep 22, 2026 12:26 PM
The Hyde Park Jazz Festival will take place for the 20th time on the final weekend of September 2026. Beginning half…
