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…
Marian McPartland and producer Orrin Keepnews will both receive 2004 Trustees awards from the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences. Formal acknowledgement of the award will be made at the 46th Annual Grammy Awards ceremony in Los Angeles on Feb. 8.
The Trustees Award honors those who have made “outstanding contributions to the industry in a non-performing capacity.” McPartland will be recognized for her work in jazz education and on the radio with her program, Piano Jazz, which has been on air since 1978. Keepnews will be recognized for his work with historic jazz labels Riverside and Milestone, as well as his significant body of credits.
Sonny Rollins and Artie Shaw will both receive Lifetime Achievement awards at the Grammy Awards ceremony. This award honors achievement on the recording side of the industry, where both artists have made historic contributions over long careers.
“The Lifetime Achievement and Trustees awards recognize music people who have made the greatest impact on our culture,” said Neil Portnow, president of NARAS. “These recipients are being honored as legendary performers, cultural ambassadors, archetypal musicians and profoundly inspiring figures. Their outstanding accomplishments and passion for their craft have created a timeless legacy that has positively affected multiple generations, and will continue to influence generations to come.”
For more information, visit www.naras.org
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.
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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.
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“Hamiet was one of the most underrated musicians ever,” says Whitaker of baritone saxophonist Hamiet Bluiett.
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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…