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…
If you’ve ever wanted to show Ornette Coleman what you’ve got, this is your opportunity.
Coleman is one of the judges for the International Songwriting Competition, which is now accepting entries. The yearly contest awards thousands of dollars in prizes to aspiring and established songwriters, with categories ranging from jazz and blues to rock and country. The overall grand prize is $25,000 cash and $20,000 in merchandise.
The competition puts Coleman alongside a prestigious panel of judges, including jazz luminaries such as guitarist John Scofield and vocalist Cassandra Wilson, and other musicians of various genres such as Nelly Furtado and Tom Waits.
The application deadline is Oct. 15. See songwritingcompetition.com for details on how to submit an entry.
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…
