Jazz Tributes and New Voices Energize U.S. Scene

Jazz continues to thrive across the United States through a blend of historic tributes and innovative performances. Local jazz legend Bobby Bradford, who recently lost his home and instruments in a fire, is set to perform his Jackie Robinson tribute at the Hammer Museum’s JazzPop series, demonstrating resilience within the jazz community. The New York duo Acute Inflections brings the spirit of the Harlem Renaissance to modern audiences with their Soulful Sounds Tour. Saxophonist Dave Koz’s Summer Horns tour pays homage to classic horn bands like Tower of Power and Earth, Wind & Fire, expanding jazz’s reach to new cities. San Jose Jazz’s Summer Fest, curated by Bruce Labadie, continues to highlight diverse jazz and Latin music offerings. Modern jazz remains vibrant, with artists like Cory Weeds and his Cellar Music Group fostering both new and archival jazz releases.