Jazz Roots: Celebrating the Rich Jazz Heritage of the Five Points Neighborhood
within African American communities in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It is deeply rooted in African musical traditions, combined with influences from European, Latin, and Caribbean music. Historically, jazz has played a significant role in the cultural, social, and political landscape of African Americans during a time of racial segregation and discrimination. It provided a means for African American musicians to express themselves creatively, challenge societal norms, and communicate their experiences and struggles. Jazz became a platform for African Americans to assert their identity, forge cultural connections, and celebrate their heritage. Celebrating jazz during Black History Month acknowledges and pays tribute to the immense contributions of African Americans to this iconic music genre and recognizes their resilience, creativity, and cultural impact. “We are excited to bring back Jazz Roots for its second year,” said Haroun Cowans, Board Chair of the Five Points Business Improvement District. “This free event not only showcases the incredible talent in our community but also pays tribute to the rich jazz heritage that has shaped the Five Points neighborhood.”
By LASHEITA SAYER
The Five Points Business Improvement District is thrilled to announce the highly anticipated second annual Jazz Roots event series, scheduled for Saturday, February 17th and Saturday, February 24th. This exciting event, honoring Black History Month, invites local residents and jazz enthusiasts to experience the vibrant history of jazz through live performances, spoken word poetry, dance, and more. The Five Points neighborhood, once known as the “Harlem of the West,” holds a significant place in jazz history. From the 1930s to the 1950s, renowned jazz musicians performed in local clubs and bars, many of which still stand today. Jazz Roots aims to pay homage to this heritage and celebrate black culture as it relates to American history at large. Jazz is celebrated as part of Black History Month because it is a genre of music that originated
Photo: Adobe
14 The Acumen
Powered by FlippingBook