May 26, 2026 11:08 AM
Sonny Rollins Passes Away at 95
Sonny Rollins, the iconic saxophonist, composer and improviser whose career stretched from the origins of bebop to 21st…
One more format is digging into Blue Note’s classic jazz catalog as the label is now releasing some of its most famous tracks as mobile telephone ring tones.
As part of a new program called “The Best Of Blue Tones,” riffs from Thelonious Monk, Herbie Hancock, Miles Davis and many other legends are now available for jazz fans who want their favorite music to alert them when they receive incoming calls.
“We’ve only just scratched the surface of the classic Blue Note catalog with this first batch,” said Jeff Zakim, director of New Media for Blue Note. “Jazz buffs are in for a real treat as this is just the first of many ringtones we plan to make available.”
Some of the initial tunes that will be made available to many carriers in the United States include Monk’s “Straight No Chaser,” Hancock’s “Watermelon Man” and Davis’ “Move,” Art Blakey’s “Dat Dere” and 20 others.
Onstage, Rollins would move about restlessly, thrusting his tenor sax in the air as he blew.
May 26, 2026 11:08 AM
Sonny Rollins, the iconic saxophonist, composer and improviser whose career stretched from the origins of bebop to 21st…
“We thought it’s important that Ronin has a new statement,” said Nik Bärtsch of his band’s latest album, Spin. “The sound is differently produced, so it reflects more of who we are.”
Apr 21, 2026 10:00 AM
Nik Bärtsch cuts an imposing figure on stage. He’s unmistakable with his soul patch, shaven head and black attire.…
Dave King (left) and Reid Anderson offer insights into why The Bad Plus’ chemistry was cool, the accomplishments many and its longevity so fruitful.
May 12, 2026 11:42 AM
The scene still sticks with me. I had heard the oddball name of this new group being dropped around town, and…
How best to mark Miles Davis’ centennial? By allowing the stories to flow, and cross-discussions to happen.
May 26, 2026 10:40 AM
Editor’s Note: The iconic trumpeter, composer and bandleader Miles Davis would have turned 100 today (May 26, 2026).…
Ava Preston, a 12-time DownBeat Student Music Award winner, is currently pursuing her master’s degree in jazz voice at Juilliard.
May 12, 2026 10:00 AM
Ava Preston, from Cleveland, Ohio, was named the winner of the ninth annual Ella Fitzgerald Jazz Vocal Competition on…
