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…
Queva Jayne Lutz, owner of the 55 Bar in New York, died Feb. 22.
Born in Harlingen, Texas, Lutz left home at 16 and moved to California, where she owned a bookstore before moving to New York in 1977. Lutz created a casual, intimate environment for musicians to stretch out and explore new material within the confines of the 55 Bar, located at 55 Christopher St.
Lutz is survived by her son, Scott Ellard, and his wife, Beth; grandchildren, Aerin and Nicholson; mother, Nickie; brother, Jess; and sister-in-law, Janie.
A memorial service will be held at Manhattan’s St. Peter’s Lutheran Church, 619 Lexington Ave., on March 15 at 6 p.m. No flowers please.
For more information, visit: www.stpeters.org
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…
