For over 35 years, Central Avenue in Los Angeles served as the creative hotbed for R&B and Jazz Artists. While artists still work and perform there, that was the heyday for the area. That history is celebrated every year with the Central Avenue Jazz Festival. This year’s festival takes place this weekend, July 27th and 28th.
There are four venues at the festival this year: The Ella Fitzgerald Stage, The Chico Hamilton Stage, The Improv Stage and the Dunbar Hotel.
Headlining on Saturday (on the Chico Hamilton Stage) is vibraphonist Stefon Harris. The other acts appearing on Saturday include Barbara Morrison and the Blu Cru, The Eric Reed Westet, The Baylor Project, Justo Almario’s Afro-Columbian Ensemble, Ghost Note, Sheléa and Katalyst.
Sunday’s headliner is vocalist Cassandra Wilson (on the Ella Fitzgerald Stage). Other performances on Sunday include The Chris Dave Trio, The Zac Harmon Band, The Tatiana Tate Quartet, Darynn Dean and Marvin “Smitty” Smith & Black Music Diaspora.
One of the best things about this musical festival (besides the amazing line-up) is that it is free. But as there are countless opportunities for food and beverages plus art for sale, don’t leave your wallet at home.
The weather calls for mid-80s. Bring a hat. Bring some sun screen. And enjoy great jazz music.
Photo of Cassandra Wilson courtesy of Legacy Recordings
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