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…
Blue Note Records will officially kick off “Blue Note Records Takes New York,” an all-out invasion of New York City jazz clubs and music halls in honor of the 70th anniversary of the label’s founding, in early January 2009. “Blue Note Records Takes New York” will feature 20 past and present artists from Blue Note’s roster performing in 10 different venues throughout the city.
In 1939, Blue Note Records was founded in Manhattan as a small independent jazz label run by two German immigrants, and has since become the longest running jazz label in the world. In 2009, Blue Note commemorates both the 70th anniversary of the label’s founding by Alfred Lion, as well as the 25th anniversary of its re-launch in 1984 under current President Bruce Lundvall. In celebration, Blue Note has planned several multimedia offerings, including live concerts, special digital and physical re-issues and new releases, The Blue Note 7—an all-star tribute band—book releases, festival honors, merchandise and more.
More info: bluenote.com
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…
