The Jazz Foundation of America (JFA) returned to the legendary Apollo Theatre in Harlem, New York, Thursday night for “A Great Night in Harlem,” the 2024 presentation of the organization’s annual benefit gala.
JFA’s Artistic Director Steve Jordan assembled this year’s lineup that boasted an eclectic list of musical icons from a wide variety of genres that included Sun Ra Arkestra with Marshall Allen (celebrating his 100th birthday next month), Chuck D performing with Mixmaster Mike and Steve Jordan, Dee Dee Bridgewater with George Coleman (as part of the tribute to Max Roach) and closing out the show and performing for the first time on The Apollo stage, Bobby Weir.
“… a deep reverence for the innovators who came before …”
There were two hours of amazing performances with a deep reverence for the innovators who came before, all in the name of the JFA’s noble mission of supporting musicians in need. Richard Parsons accepted The Dr. Billy Taylor Humanitarian Award.
The Jazz Foundation of America
For 35 years, the Jazz Foundation of America (JFA) has been keeping jazz, blues, roots, and R&B alive by helping the musicians who have played the soundtrack to our lives. With compassion and discretion, JFA makes it possible to pay someone’s rent and keep them from eviction or homelessness when illness, accident, or old age prevents them from working.
Their social work services and Musicians’ Emergency Fund provide housing assistance, pro bono medical care, disaster relief, and financial support to musicians and their families in times of crisis. In the past year, JFA assisted in more than 7,000 cases.
“… they create purpose and dignified employment for hundreds of musicians …”
Through their Jazz and Blues in the Schools and Gig Fund performance programs, they create purpose and dignified employment for hundreds of musicians every month and bring free concerts to thousands of underserved audience members at public schools, hospitals, nursing homes, museums, parks, libraries, and community centers across the country.
Whatever the need is, they don’t just fix the problem, they heal it with love.
Photos By Udo Salters Photography
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