Apr 29, 2025 11:53 AM
Vocalist Andy Bey Dies at 85
Singer Andy Bey, who illuminated the jazz scene for five decades with a four-octave range that encompassed a bellowing…
The Ethnic Heritage Ensemble, a Chicago-based trio known for its innovative musical approach consisting of a drum and two horns, celebrates its 25th anniversary with a tour by members Kahil El’ Zabar, Ernest Dawkins and Joseph Bowie.
Percussionist El’ Zabar has performed with musicians such as Dizzy Gillespie, Donny Hathaway, Henry Threadgill, Paul Simon and Stevie Wonder. Aside from leading the Ethnic Heritage Ensemble, he also heads up the Ritual Trio featuring bassist Malachi Favors and saxophonist Ari Brown.
Saxophonist Dawkins is as well-known for his work as an educator and performer in the Chicago area. Leading the New Horizons Ensemble since 1978, he has collaborated with music greats, including Ramsey Lewis, Lester Bowie, Anthony Braxton and Jack McDuff.
Trombonist Joseph Bowie, younger brother of trumpeter Lester Bowie, was led to the EHE through his work with the band Defunkt. Bowie also tours and records with several European artists including the Vienna Arts Orchestra, Count Basie Orchestra and the Sebastian Peikarek Quartet.
The tour dates are as follows:
“It kind of slows down, but it’s still kind of productive in a way, because you have something that you can be inspired by,” Andy Bey said on a 2019 episode of NPR Jazz Night in America, when he was 80. “The music is always inspiring.”
Apr 29, 2025 11:53 AM
Singer Andy Bey, who illuminated the jazz scene for five decades with a four-octave range that encompassed a bellowing…
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