May 26, 2026 11:08 AM
Sonny Rollins Passes Away at 95
Sonny Rollins, the iconic saxophonist, composer and improviser whose career stretched from the origins of bebop to 21st…
Tomasz Stańko (1942-2018)
(Photo: Andrzej Tyszko)According to Reuters, the influential Polish trumpeter Tomasz Stańko died Sunday at the age of 76.
Performers took to social media to express their appreciation for his work, which stretches back to the 1960s when Stańko performed in groups helmed by Polish pianist Krzysztof Komeda.
R.I.P. Tomasz Stanko ! Thank you for the love, inspiration and encouragement over the years.
— Ambrose Akinmusire (@amBROSEire) July 29, 2018
Just heard that trumpeter Tomasz Stanko has died after a courageous fight against illness for some time. He was a unique musician with deep feelings and a gentle soul. #tomaszstanko
— Dave Holland (@TheDaveHolland) July 29, 2018
Read an interview from the DownBeat archives with the trumpeter here. DB
Onstage, Rollins would move about restlessly, thrusting his tenor sax in the air as he blew.
May 26, 2026 11:08 AM
Sonny Rollins, the iconic saxophonist, composer and improviser whose career stretched from the origins of bebop to 21st…
To the world, James Blood Ulmer was a legend, a visionary and a musical force whose sound was distinctive and unique. To his family, he was their teacher, their storyteller and a source of strength.
Jun 9, 2026 10:54 AM
With deep sorrow and profound love, we announce the passing of James Blood Ulmer, a boldly innovative guitarist,…
Dave King (left) and Reid Anderson offer insights into why The Bad Plus’ chemistry was cool, the accomplishments many and its longevity so fruitful.
May 12, 2026 11:42 AM
The scene still sticks with me. I had heard the oddball name of this new group being dropped around town, and…
How best to mark Miles Davis’ centennial? By allowing the stories to flow, and cross-discussions to happen.
May 26, 2026 10:40 AM
Editor’s Note: The iconic trumpeter, composer and bandleader Miles Davis would have turned 100 today (May 26, 2026).…
Ava Preston, a 12-time DownBeat Student Music Award winner, is currently pursuing her master’s degree in jazz voice at Juilliard.
May 12, 2026 10:00 AM
Ava Preston, from Cleveland, Ohio, was named the winner of the ninth annual Ella Fitzgerald Jazz Vocal Competition on…
