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…
Robert Glasper will helm The Black Radio Experience celebration in Napa, California, on Labor Day weekend.
(Photo: Courtesy Blue Note Jazz Festival)The Blue Note Jazz Festival’s Black Radio Experience, a celebration of the rich tapestry of Black culture, will take place Aug. 30–Sept. 1 at the The Meritage Resort & Spa in Napa Valley, California.
With elite keyboardist and producer Robert Glasper at the helm, the Black Radio Experience aims to transcend boundaries and forge new bonds. In addition to featuring live performances by 30-plus artists and comedians on three stages, the Labor Day weekend celebration will highlight signature culinary events, wine tastings, pool parties and various artist-led experiences. The full lineup will be announced in April, but limited on-site hotel and ticket packages go on sale March 7.
Glasper has numerous accolades, awards and achievements to his name. He won the Grammy for Best R&B Album for Black Radio III (Loma Vista Records) in 2023. To date, he has five Grammy wins and 14 nominations across 11 categories, an Emmy Award for his song for Ava Duvernay’s critically hailed documentary 13th with Common and Karriem Riggins, and a Peabody Award for his composition “Mr. Soul!” His work and accolades bridge all aspects of the music business, from live touring to film scoring, composing and producing.
The Black Radio Experience lineup will be announced in April. For more information, click HERE. DB
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…
