May 26, 2026 11:08 AM
Sonny Rollins Passes Away at 95
Sonny Rollins, the iconic saxophonist, composer and improviser whose career stretched from the origins of bebop to 21st…
On Saturday, trumpeter Terence Blanchard and director Michael Murphy are set for an online chat around Up From the Streets: New Orleans: City of Music.
(Photo: Eagle Rock Entertainment)Up From the Streets: New Orleans: City of Music, a documentary that explores the inexorable link between the Big Easy and definitive musical exhortations, likely won’t be in proper theaters any time soon. So, a raft of streaming opportunities are being presented beginning Thursday.
Dozens of theaters across the country will be hosting the streams online for $12, and a portion of the proceeds will be donated to The New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Foundation’s Jazz & Heritage Music Relief Fund.
In the film, the influence of performers like Louis Armstrong, Fats Domino, Allen Toussaint and Dr. John are interspersed with commentary from luminaries like Branford and Wynton Marsalis, Harry Connick Jr. and Dr. Michael White. Robert Plant, Keith Richards, Bonnie Raitt and Sting also crop up.
On Saturday, trumpeter Terence Blanchard and the film’s director, Michael Murphy, are set for an online chat, and additional online screenings are planned for Monday.
For some other jazz film recommendations, take a look at the round-ups DownBeat previously has compiled: Vol. 1, Vol. 2, Vol. 3. DB
Onstage, Rollins would move about restlessly, thrusting his tenor sax in the air as he blew.
May 26, 2026 11:08 AM
Sonny Rollins, the iconic saxophonist, composer and improviser whose career stretched from the origins of bebop to 21st…
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.
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With deep sorrow and profound love, we announce the passing of James Blood Ulmer, a boldly innovative guitarist,…
Dave King (left) and Reid Anderson offer insights into why The Bad Plus’ chemistry was cool, the accomplishments many and its longevity so fruitful.
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The scene still sticks with me. I had heard the oddball name of this new group being dropped around town, and…
How best to mark Miles Davis’ centennial? By allowing the stories to flow, and cross-discussions to happen.
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Editor’s Note: The iconic trumpeter, composer and bandleader Miles Davis would have turned 100 today (May 26, 2026).…
Ava Preston, a 12-time DownBeat Student Music Award winner, is currently pursuing her master’s degree in jazz voice at Juilliard.
May 12, 2026 10:00 AM
Ava Preston, from Cleveland, Ohio, was named the winner of the ninth annual Ella Fitzgerald Jazz Vocal Competition on…
