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Memphis Musicians Honor John Coltrane at Sold-Out Concert

Band performing a tribute to John Coltrane at Crosstown Arts

News Summary

A sold-out concert at Crosstown Arts celebrated the music of jazz legend John Coltrane, led by saxophonist Art Edmaiston. The tribute showcased a diverse range of Coltrane’s works, reflecting his profound influence on the genre. Local musicians came together to pay homage to Coltrane’s legacy, highlighting the vibrant jazz scene in Memphis. The event is a part of a series aimed at interpreting jazz classics, with further tributes anticipated in the coming months.

Memphis Musicians Pay Tribute to John Coltrane in Sold-Out Concert at Crosstown Arts

Memphis, TN – A tribute concert honoring jazz legend John Coltrane took place at Crosstown Arts, drawing a sold-out audience. The event was part of a monthly series organized by Strictly Jazz Entertainment, led by promoter Dennis Adams, in collaboration with Crosstown Arts. This concert focused not only on Coltrane’s most famous works but also on the extensive range of his music.

Art Edmaiston, a well-respected saxophonist known for his long tenure with Gregg Allman, was enlisted to lead the tribute. Initially, Edmaiston expressed hesitation about taking on the role, citing Coltrane’s immense influence on jazz as a formidable challenge. However, he ultimately accepted the opportunity, recognizing Coltrane’s profound impact on his own musical journey.

Edmaiston’s connection to jazz began at the age of 15 after witnessing Branford Marsalis perform Coltrane’s iconic piece, “Giant Steps,” on television. This experience inspired him to delve deeper into jazz music, particularly Coltrane’s work. After relocating to Memphis in 1990 for his studies at the University of Memphis, Edmaiston further immersed himself in Coltrane’s music, evolving as an artist in the process.

The concert featured a thoughtfully curated setlist that encompassed various elements of Coltrane’s catalog. Instead of solely focusing on the artist’s well-known pieces, Edmaiston aimed to showcase a variety of songs, including collaborations, modal pieces, romantic ballads, and selections that highlight Coltrane’s influence on blues music. Edmaiston’s band included talented local musicians such as Gerald Stephens on piano, Logan Hanna on guitar, Tim Goodwin on acoustic bass, and Chad Anderson on drums. The inclusion of electric guitar was a deliberate choice to add a modern touch while still reflecting Coltrane’s distinctive sound.

The concert not only honored Coltrane’s music but also sought to create a balanced representation of his musical legacy and the personal resonance of his songs. With doors opening at 6:30 p.m. and the show commencing at 7 p.m., attendees were eagerly prepared to experience a night full of jazz.

Despite the concert being sold out, there was a possibility of a limited number of standing-room tickets becoming available on the day of the event, offering a chance for latecomers to enjoy the tribute. The success of the concert series has already set the stage for future events, including an anticipated tribute to guitarist Grant Green scheduled for May 12.

Edmaiston commended the Strictly Jazz and Crosstown series as an excellent platform that provides local musicians with the opportunity to present their contemporary interpretations of the jazz genre. The series has garnered significant attention and enthusiasm within the community, celebrating the rich jazz heritage and the ongoing influence of artists like Coltrane.

The concert at Crosstown Arts not only served as a tribute to John Coltrane, a pivotal figure in the development of jazz, but also highlighted the vibrant talent within Memphis’s music scene. As local artists continue to honor and reinterpret jazz classics, the cultural significance of such events remains an important aspect of the city’s artistic identity.