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…
Samuel L. Jackson, who may be best known for his role as a hit man in Pulp Fiction , will potray a fictional blues singer named Lazurus in the upcoming film Black Snake Moan . The movie will be released in early 2007 and its accompanying soundtrack on New West Records features Jackson singing four blues standards.
While Jackson learned how to play guitar for his role, he receives support from such musicians as Alvin Youngblood Hart, Kenny Brown, Big Jack Johnson and Jason Freeman. Two of Jackson’s songs in the film—“Just Like A Bird Without A Feather” and “Alice Mae”—have been associated with R.L. Burnside.
“R.L. was definitely the zeitgeist of the film,” said Black Snake Moan‘s musical supervisor Scott Bomar.
Justin Timberlake also appears in the film, but there is no indication that he covers any blues favorites on the soundtrack.
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…
“We thought it’s important that Ronin has a new statement,” said Nik Bärtsch of his band’s latest album, Spin. “The sound is differently produced, so it reflects more of who we are.”
Apr 21, 2026 10:00 AM
Nik Bärtsch cuts an imposing figure on stage. He’s unmistakable with his soul patch, shaven head and black attire.…
Dave King (left) and Reid Anderson offer insights into why The Bad Plus’ chemistry was cool, the accomplishments many and its longevity so fruitful.
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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…
