Saxophonists Lou Donaldson and organist Jack McDuff, both born in 1926, championed memorable melodies and grooves rooted in the blues, and eventually became part of the fabric of a hip hop.

Since winning the prestigious Herbie Hancock Institute International Jazz competition in 2024, Chicago-born pianist Jahari Stampley continues to evolve as a pianist, composer and video game designer.

This Jazz Appreciation Month, celebrate the centennial birthdays of six diverse jazz talents from 1926, including a pioneering trombonist and a session guitar legend.

From ragtime roots to modern free jazz explorations, Spike Wilner's musical journey blossomed from mentorship and the permission to express his authentic musical self.