Both BMI and the jazz world are mourning the passing of innovative saxophonist/composer Wayne Shorter, who died today in Los Angeles at the age of 89. A player with a distinctive style, Shorter’s mastery of the tenor saxophone set him apart in the 1960’s as a name to know, and… Read more...
BMI is saddened by the passing of Ray Mantilla, the percussionist and bandleader whose six-decade-long career ensured his legacy as one of the most diverse and respected jazz musicians in American music. Renowned for his playing of the congas and timbales, Mantilla added his touch to hundreds of recordings, including… Read more...
When trying to tell the true story of welterweight world champion Emile Griffith, who landed a fatal blow to his opponent during a boxing match, one probably wouldn’t think of opera. Add onto that scenario the fact that Griffith was taunted for his sexuality by that opponent, and you’d be… Read more...
September 15 marks the beginning of a month-long recognition of the rich history and important contributions Latinos have made to American society and culture. What started as Hispanic Heritage Week under President Lyndon B. Johnson in 1968 grew into a month-long observation in the late ’80s. “Nurtured by their rich… Read more...
Broadcast Music, Inc. mourns the loss of beloved hard bop pianist, jazz composer and longtime BMI member Cedar Walton, who passed away at the age of 79 in August 2013. The Jazz Master contributed standards such as “Firm Roots,” “Clockwise” and “Bolivia” to the jazz canon. Highlights of Walton’s 60-plus-year… Read more...
BMI jazz greats Ron Carter, Sonny Rollins and the late Art Blakey will be inducted into the ASCAP Jazz Wall of Fame at an event held June 17 at Lincoln Center Carter, Rollins and Blakey join other BMI jazz legends inducted in previous years, including Miles Davis, Charlie Parker, Lester… Read more...
