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…
Organist Dr. Lonnie Smith is releasing his new Jungle Soul (Palmetto) on July 11 and is beginning a world tour.
Jungle Soul includes songs by Marvin Gaye, Thelonious Monk, Frank Foster, and others, including some of Smith’s own compositions. The disc also features guitarist Peter Bernstein, drummer Allison Miller and guitarist Matt Balitsaris.
Smith’s tour includes the Umbria Jazz Festival in Umbria, Italy, from July 7 – 16, New York’s Jazz Standard from July 18 – 23, San Jose Jazz Festival in San Jose, Calif., on Aug. 19, Chicago Jazz Festival on Sept. 3, Monterey Jazz Festival in Monterey, Calif., on Sept. 17, Kennedy Center Jazz Club in Washington, D.C., on Oct. 21, Earshot Jazz Festival in Seattle, Wash., on Nov. 2 and San Francisco Jazz Festival on Nov. 3.
For more information go to: drlonniesmith.com
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…
To the world, James Blood Ulmer was a legend, a visionary and a musical force whose sound was distinctive and unique. To his family, he was their teacher, their storyteller and a source of strength.
Jun 9, 2026 10:54 AM
With deep sorrow and profound love, we announce the passing of James Blood Ulmer, a boldly innovative guitarist,…
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).…
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…
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…
