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…
Chicago saxophone legend Fred Anderson will turn 80 on March 22. In celebration of this special occasion, a series of concerts will take place at Anderson’s Chicago club, the Velvet Lounge, from March 18-22. In addition, a March 25 show honoring Anderson will take place at the Hideout.
Musicians participating on the various nights will include Anderson, the AACM Great Black Music Ensemble, Harrison Bankhead, Hamiet Bluiett, Mwata Bowden, Billy Brimfield, Ari Brown, Richard Davis, Ernest Dawkins, Hamid Drake, Kahil el’Zabar, Douglas Ewart, Henry Grimes, Edward “Kidd” Jordan, Nicole Mitchell, Dushun Mosley, Jeff Parker, Avreeayl Ra, Chad Taylor, Ed Wilkerson, Jr., Corey Wilkes, Francis Wong and many more.
Times and ticket prices vary. For details, go to velvetlounge.net.
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…
