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…
Concord Records and Ray Charles have inked a deal for Charles’ first new recording effort since 2001—an album of duets—scheduled for release on Aug. 31.
Guests on the as-yet-untitled album include Norah Jones, B.B. King, Michael McDonald, Willie Nelson, Bonnie Raitt and James Taylor. The album contains mostly standards, recorded in setups from big band to trio.
The 73-year-old pianist, composer and vocalist first worked with Concord on Poncho Sanchez’s Out Of Sight. “We had such a fun time and enjoyed a great rapport,” Charles said. “It seemed like a natural step to work on a whole album together.”
A feature film based on Charles’ life, “Unchain My Heart: The Ray Charles Story,” will also be out this year. Comedian and actor Jamie Foxx will portray Charles.
For more information, visit www.raycharles.com or www.concordrecords.com
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.
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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…
