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…
An auction house has announced the upcoming sale of several guitars from George Benson’s personal collection, as well as a trumpet played by Miles Davis. The auction will take place at Skinner’s Boston gallery Oct. 14.
Six guitars from Benson’s personal collection will be auctioned off, including three made by luthier Jimmy D’Aquisto, two of his treasured keepsakes and one he used on the popular album Breezin’ (Warner Bros.). They are valued between $7,500 and $70,000. In addition, more than 40 American vintage guitars will be up for sale—some valued as high as $30,000.
A custom-made Miles Davis trumpet will round out the auction. The engraved Martin instrument, valued between $25,000 and $35,000, was pictured on the 1970 album cover, A Tribute To Jack Johnson (Columbia).
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…