Ibrahim was an early jazz acolyte, studying the music via 78s he would buy from soldiers stationed in South Africa — who also gave him the nickname “Dollar.”

“I’ll always keep the jazz harmonic side in my music because I could never go all the way and be a straight smooth-jazz guy,” says Warren Wolf of his groove-oriented music.

Ryan Porter, left, with Kamasi Washington at Hollywood Bowl Jazz Festival in 2024.

“I want to leave something for people to hear what the music is about and you can vibe with it in the car or wherever you’re at, which is awesome,” says Noah Jackson.

​When Chuck Redd canceled his Christmas Eve show on the Kennedy Center’s Millennium Stage, it led to a national media firestorm.

Music industry executive Clive Davis (right), shown here at a Grammy ceremony with Carlos Santana, championed the careers of pop stars and landmark jazz artists alike.

“I will always believe that all humans have the capacity to love unconditionally,” says bassist and activist David Ambrosio. “It’s our divine nature. We’ve just lost our way.”

A changing of the guard, from left: Ellen Price, Darrian Douglas, Clara Winder and Mark Morganelli transition to keep Jazz Forum Arts on track.

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.