Jun 3, 2025 11:25 AM
In Memoriam: Al Foster, 1943–2025
Al Foster, a drummer regarded for his fluency across the bebop, post-bop and funk/fusion lineages of jazz, died May 28…
This year’s NAMM Show is scheduled to go on as planned Jan. 21–25 at the Anaheim Convention Center in Southern California.
(Photo: Courtesy NAMM)In response to the wildfires that continue to burn in areas of Southern California, the National Association of Music Merchants has announced that this year’s NAMM Show is still on. In addition, the NAMM Foundation has committed $50,000 to its L.A. Wildfires Relief Fund and is accepting additional contributions.
“Yesterday, we visited the Anaheim Convention Center and confirmed firsthand with city officials that there is no impact on their services or air quality, and we can proceed with a safe and healthy show for all attendees,” said John Mlynczak, NAMM President and CEO, in a statement released Jan. 14. This year’s NAMM Show is scheduled to take place Jan. 21–25 in Anaheim, California, some 60 miles southeast of the region most affected by recent wildfires.
“We continue to stay in close contact with our NAMM members and partners in Los Angeles, including those impacted by the wildfires,” Mlynczak reported. “We are coordinating relief efforts with NAMM members in L.A. while they all prepare to exhibit at The NAMM Show next week.”
The NAMM Foundation’s L.A. Wildfires Relief Fund will provide needs-based assistance to NAMM members, employees of NAMM member companies, music education programs and music makers impacted by the fires. The foundation plans to coordinate relief centers throughout The NAMM Show in partnership with NAMM member companies and their foundations.
“NAMM is first and foremost an association that cares deeply for our members and the global music products industry,” Mlynczak stressed. “This year, The NAMM Show will demonstrate our industry’s commitment by uniting as a community in support of those impacted in Los Angeles. As we gather next week to network, learn and promote the products that drive music making worldwide, we will focus our efforts on how we as an industry come together to support those communities affected by the wildfires.”
To read NAMM’s official statement, CLICK HERE. DB
Foster was truly a drummer to the stars, including Miles Davis, Sonny Rollins and Joe Henderson.
Jun 3, 2025 11:25 AM
Al Foster, a drummer regarded for his fluency across the bebop, post-bop and funk/fusion lineages of jazz, died May 28…
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