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…
Heads Up International has signed a recording agreement with keyboardist/composer George Duke and his Big Piano Music record label. Duke will make his Heads Up debut with a yet-to-be-titled album scheduled for release in September 2008.
“I’m very excited to have George on board,” said Dave Love, president of Heads Up. “He brings with him a lifetime of innovation and excellence, and a resume that includes collaborations with some of the biggest names in jazz, funk, rock and pop.”
“I’m happy to be part of this new association with Heads Up,” said Duke, who is currently in the studio crafting the new album. “There’s a huge audience that’s interested in the music of more mature artists, and music that has a little more depth than what you might find elsewhere.”
More info: headsup.com
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…
