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…
Legendary r&b singer Etta James has canceled a string of tour dates after suffering complications from a mid-June abdominal surgery, Reuters has reported. She remains in stable condition at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles.
James, 69, was “extremely disappointed” at having to cancel performances, said Lupe De Leon, her manager. “If it had been left solely up to her, she would have checked herself out of the hospital and started the tour regardless of her delicate health. However, her doctor advised that were she to do so, it would put her at very great risk.”
James was scheduled to join guitarist B.B. King and singer Al Green on a tour that began Tuesday, but her illness forced her to cancel dates up to Aug. 23, when she hopes to begin performing again. Vocalist Chaka Khan will substitute for James on most of the tour, with Susan Tedeschi stepping in at the JVC Jazz Festival-Newport.
James’ illustrious career has included hits “Something’s Got A Hold On Me,” “Trust In Me” and her trademark song, “At Last.” The three-time Grammy Award winner was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1993.
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…
