Jazz Music's Finest Honor Albert "Tootie" Heath

Some of jazz music’s greatest musicians came out Saturday evening to celebrate drummer Albert “Tootie” Heath at SOPAC. The event marked the fourteenth time the Giants of Jazz recognition was bestowed upon a jazz artist whose work has had an influence on the art form.

Eager to hear some top-notch performances, jazz fans waited patiently for the show to begin. But before the first note was played, SOPAC’s Executive Director, Michael Bollinger greeted the audience. “We are so happy that this event is here this year,” he said. “Trying to corral twenty five jazz musicians in one place on one night is one of the toughest things I’ve ever tried to do. But as you’ll hear, it was well worth it.” Once the show started, the musicians didn’t disappoint.

Next, drummer and South Orange resident John Lee, who created the honor a number of years ago took to the stage to thank the musicians and audience for supporting the event. Acting as emcee and performing as well, Lee introduced the first of a string of jazz performers. Among them were drummer Evan Sherman, bassist Dezron Douglas, saxophonist Justin Robinson, and trumpeter Roy Hargrove. The musicians treated the audience to some of the best in straight-ahead jazz music. Playing in perfect unison, they displayed the true meaning of ensemble performance.

Guitarists Russell Malone and Tom Silverstein joined forces to play several soothing duets. The duo also delighted the crowd with a quick-moving composition that showed off their talents and level of musicianship.

The next set of musicians joined the pair and took the evening to another level. They did so with humor, rousing solos, and memorable jazz tunes. Saxophonists Don Braden and Antonio Hart, drummer Cecil Brooks III, John Lee, Roy Hargrove performed tunes that put the horn section out front. The evening, it appeared, wasn’t about the introduction of song titles. It was more about the listening experience and the experience was indeed great.

A little more than an hour into the performance, the players took a twenty-minute break. When the show resumed, the audience heard more top-of-the-line jazz performances. Soon after, Albert Heath came to the stage to thank the crowd for being a part of the festivities. With a touch of humor, he participated in a raffle that presented winners with signed posters from the event and other memorabilia.

South Orange Village President Alex Torpey presented Heath with a proclamation recognizing his accomplishments. Among the family members who came out to support Heath were his brother, saxophonist Jimmy Heath and nephew, composer and musician James Mtume.

Giants of Jazz was a fitting honor for a legendary jazz artist. At seventy-six years young, Heath has been a major influence on many musicians. He is one of three brothers who have participated in the art form for many decades. Having performed with the likes of Dexter Gordon, Thelonious Monk, and Herbie Hancock and others, the Giants of Jazz tribute to Albert Heath was one that was richly deserved.