Thank you to the Jazz Foundation of America for inviting us to their annual “A Great Night in Harlem” benefit gala on March 30, 2023, at the historic Apollo Theater. Truly an unforgettable evening. Performers included the Titans of Jazz Bass (Buster Williams, Paul West, Reggie Workman, Rufus Reid, Cecil McBee), as well as Robert Cray, Taj Mahal, Kenny Barron, JFA Artistic Director Steve Jordan, Ray Parker Jr., 32 Bar Blues featured artists James Carter and Bettye LaVette, and so many more. Honorees included saxman Benny Golson, longtime JFA Executive Director and guiding light Wendy Oxenhorn, legendary songwriter Mike Stoller (of Lieber & Stoller fame), the abovementioned Titans of Jazz Bass, along with a special tribute to Ramsey Lewis.
Throughout the evening, the Jazz Foundation team recognized the wonderful customers of 32 Bar Blues for supporting the JFA and their lifesaving programs. Through your donations and purchases of our special Jazz Foundation items, we’ve contributed more than $130,000 to the JFA – which helps provide emergency assistance, pro bono medical care, and financial support to lifelong jazz, blues and roots musicians in times of need.

Clockwise from top left: Robert Cray, Mike Stoller, Bettye LaVette, Taj Mahal, Steve Jordan, Jeffrey Wright, Wendy Oxenhorn, James Carter
All photos © Bennett Raglin/Getty Images for the Jazz Foundation of America
For more information about the Jazz Foundation of America, click here.