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…
The JVC Jazz Festival in New York, which takes place June 17–30, has announced its plans to celebrate the 80th birthdays of Eartha Kitt and Lee Konitz and 70th birthdays of Ron Carter and Nancy Wilson.
Kicking of the celebrations will be June 25 concerts for Kitt at Carnegie Hall and for Konitz at Zankel Hall.
Carter’s birthday concert takes place June 27 at Carnegie Hall, where he will be joined by a host of friends in various groups including Herbie Hancock, Wayne Shorther, Billy Cobham, Mulgrew Miller, Russell Malone, Jim Hall and more.
Wilson’s Carnegie Hall birthday concert will take place on June 29, where her trio will be joined by special guests Regina Carter, Kurt Elling, Nnenna Freelon, Hancock, Ramsey Lewis and Dianne Reeves.
Tickets for the concerts are $30–$90.
For more information or to purchase tickets, visit: www.carnegiehall.org; www.festivalproductions.net
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.
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Chuck Mangione on the cover of the May 8, 1975, edition of DownBeat.
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“Hamiet was one of the most underrated musicians ever,” says Whitaker of baritone saxophonist Hamiet Bluiett.
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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…
