Tribute to Ray Brown with Christian McBride, Benny Green and Karriem Riggins
9:45–11:00PM, Carhartt Amphitheatre Stage
The Detroit Jazz Fest has assembled an all-star lineup to pay tribute to legendary bassist Ray Brown. An acknowledged leader in defining the modern jazz rhythm section, as well as an inventive and ambitious soloist, Brown was also an inspired mentor, cultivating the talents and careers of many of today’s most accomplished artists. Three celebrated Brown disciples—Christian McBride, Benny Green and Greg Hutchinson—lead this tribute to the bass master.
Grammy Award-winning Christian McBride, who cites Ray Brown as one of his most important influences, is widely regarded as the preeminent bassist of his generation. In addition to his work as a composer and leader of the Christian McBride Band and Inside Straight, he is the bassist of choice for many of today’s greatest jazz musicians. Currently, he is touring the United States with Chick Corea’s critically acclaimed Freedom Band featuring Chick, Kenny Barrett and Roy Haynes.
Pianist Benny Green has appeared on over one hundred recordings, including those of jazz luminaries Betty Carter, Art Blakey & the Jazz Messengers, Freddie Hubbard, Bobby Watson and many others. He has also released 14 albums as a leader, including 2004’s Blue Bird.
Drummer Karriem Riggins has spent the better part of his career successfully straddling the two worlds of jazz and hip-hop. The Detroit native established his jazz chops performing with such artists as Betty Carter, Ray Brown, Oscar Peterson and Kenny Burrell, to name just a few.
