Jun 9, 2026 10:54 AM
In Memoriam: James Blood Ulmer, 1940–2026
With deep sorrow and profound love, we announce the passing of James Blood Ulmer, a boldly innovative guitarist,…
Heads Up announced Monday the signing of an exclusive recording agreement with Fourplay, the contemporary jazz quartet. Fourplay will make its Heads Up debut with a yet-to-be-titled album scheduled for release in summer 2008.
The band is scheduled to perform at an after-show party following the Grammy Award ceremonies at the Staples Center in Los Angeles on Feb. 10. Fourplay’s after-show performance is scheduled for the Jazz Lounge in the west hall of the Staples Center.
Fourplay, whose current lineup consists of keyboardist Bob James, bassist Nathan East, guitarist Larry Carlton and drummer Harvey Mason, has combined elements of r&b and pop to their jazz foundations. In a span of seventeen years and ten albums, the quartet has continued to explore the dimensions and permutations of jazz while at the same time appealing to a broad mainstream audience.
East sees independent labels like Heads Up as the place to be, given the current record industry climate. “While the major labels are trying to keep the record business alive, the indies are doing a better job at keeping the music business alive,” East said. “The independents seem to be able to offer a more hands-on approach than the majors, which is definitely a benefit to the artist.”
More info: headsup.com
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,…
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