Sep 3, 2026 10:44 AM
In Memoriam: Cassandra Wilson, 1955–2026
Cassandra Wilson, a singer, songwriter and producer who was one of the most acclaimed and successful jazz vocalists of…
On Nov. 17, the Mississippi Blues Commission will place a historic marker at the site of Trumpet Records in Jackson, Miss. The label, owned and operated by Lillian and Willard McMurry, recorded and released albums by Elmore James, Sonny Boy Williamson, Arthur Crudup and Big Joe Willliams. The McMurrys, both of whom are in the Mississippi Music Hall of Fame, started the label from their retail store, the Record Mart, in 1950.
Trumpet Records was the first record company in Mississippi to achieve national stature through its distribution, sales, radio airplay and promotion.
The marker will become part of the Mississippi Blues Trail, a project of more than 100 markers and interpretative sties located throughout the state. Funded in part by a grant from the National Endowment for the Arts, the markers highlight notable sites, chosen by a panel of historians and blues scholars, that document the rich history of blues music in Mississippi.
More info: WebbWilder.com
Wilson’s ability to connect to audiences helped her to win two Grammy awards and multiple other accolades. She was named an NEA Jazz Master in 2022.
Sep 3, 2026 10:44 AM
Cassandra Wilson, a singer, songwriter and producer who was one of the most acclaimed and successful jazz vocalists of…
“The love from the jazz and music community restored my faith in humanity,” Walia wrote in an online post upon his release from detention at an ICE facility.
Aug 18, 2026 2:15 PM
Indian jazz guitarist and composer Pritesh Walia has been released after being unexpectedly detained by ICE and taken…
Percussionist Poncho Sanchez was among the artists scheduled to perform at the now-canceled inaugural LA Jazz Festival.
Aug 11, 2026 12:53 PM
The inaugural LA Jazz Festival, originally scheduled to run Aug. 7–23 with dozens of events across Los Angeles’…
Bertoncini was a specialist and advocate for the nylon-string acoustic guitar, turning down high-profile opportunities that were unsuited to the sound and techniques that he used with that instrument.
Sep 1, 2026 11:06 AM
Gene Bertoncini, an esteemed jazz guitarist, composer, arranger and educator, died Aug. 29 at the Lillian Booth Actors…
A solo concert by saxophonist Joshua Redman will close the first night of the Hyde Park Jazz Festival on Sept. 26.
Sep 22, 2026 12:26 PM
The Hyde Park Jazz Festival will take place for the 20th time on the final weekend of September 2026. Beginning half…
