Javon Jackson & Friends

Tenor saxophonist Javon Jackson, last appeared at Outpost with soul-jazz legend Les McCann. Tonight, he pays tribute to his mentor, the late great trumpeter Freddie Hubbard. Hubbard, who died in 2008, was one of the most influential musicians of the 1960’s and 1970’s developing the styles now known as “hard bop” and “post bop.” Raised in Denver, Javon Jackson attended the Berklee College of Music before joining Art Blakey’s Jazz Messengers where he performed and recorded alongside Terence Blanchard, Kenny Garrett, Wallace Roney, and Benny Green, remaining with the Messengers until Blakey’s death in 1990. He went on to work with Elvin Jones, Betty Carter, Freddie Hubbard, Cedar Walton, Ron Carter, Donald Byrd, Dr. Lonnie Smith, Richard Davis, Bobby Hutcherson, Curtis Fuller and Stanley Turrentine. Jackson has appeared on over 125 recordings and has recorded several CDs as a leader. Branford Marsalis says of Jackson, “Javon adds a modern twist to the music we grew up with. Everybody get ready for a funky good time.” In addition to his performing, Jackson currently teaches at SUNY Purchase in New York state. Joining Jackson for this Tribute to Freddie Hubbard is a truly all-star line-up featuring Eddie Henderson, trumpet; Benny Green, piano; Peter Washington, bass; and Carl Allen, drums.

Javon Jackson & Friends will also appear December 12 in Santa Fe at a Friends of Santa Fe Jazz event at Vanessie’s. For information go to www.santafejazz.com.