The New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC) is preparing to host a monumental event, “Freedom Now – Celebrating Max Roach’s Centennial” on January 26, 2024. This celebration will honor the 100th birth anniversary of Max Roach, the iconic drummer, bebop pioneer, and civil rights activist. The event will spotlight a modern reinterpretation of his seminal 1960 album, “We Insist!: Max Roach’s Freedom Now Suite,” a work that boldly addressed social justice and racial inequality through the fusion of jazz and poetry.
The event will commence with a special introduction by Mayor Ras Baraka, setting the stage for an evening of profound musical and poetic expressions. A documentary on Roach’s life and impact, emphasizing the enduring significance of “We Insist!,” will also be featured.
An extraordinary ensemble of artists is slated to perform, led by musical director Nasheet Waits, a key figure from Max’s percussion ensemble M’Boom. The lineup includes Grammy Award-winning vocalist Cassandra Wilson, whose deep, velvety voice and unique interpretation of jazz standards and originals have earned her critical acclaim. Saxophonist Ravi Coltrane, continuing the legacy of his legendary family, will bring his innovative and emotive playing style to the stage.
Renowned poets Sonia Sanchez and Saul Williams will also be featured, adding a powerful layer of spoken word to the event. Their poignant and thought-provoking poetry promises to echo the themes of Roach’s work, bridging the gap between past struggles and contemporary issues.
This ensemble’s performance is expected to be a dynamic and evolving interpretation of the Freedom Now Suite, showcasing how this historic work continues to inspire and challenge audiences across generations.
In addition to the musical and poetic performances, the event will include panel discussions with music scholars, artists, and historians. These conversations will provide deeper insight into Roach’s legacy and his famous statement to DownBeat magazine, emphasizing the role of jazz musicians in narrating the dramatic story of their heritage and experiences.
With the inclusion of such influential artists as Cassandra Wilson, Ravi Coltrane, Sonia Sanchez, Saul Williams, and Nasheet Waits, “Freedom Now – Celebrating Max Roach’s Centennial” at NJPAC is poised to be a landmark event. It will not only celebrate a jazz legend but also continue his mission of using music as a powerful voice for freedom and social change.
