While jazz already has a long and storied history, that doesn’t mean it ever stopped evolving. Innovators reshape the genre regularly, introducing the world to unique sounds and astonishing skills, unlike anything that’s been witnessed before.
As the third decade of the 21st century begins, many young jazz musicians are doing more than paying homage to jazz’s roots; they are creating something new and exciting. Many artists discovered jazz through their diverse musical backgrounds, including classical music. This blend of influences allows them to merge classical music roots with jazz, creating a unique sound that resonates with timeless and contemporary audiences. They are the genre’s future and ensure that jazz remains as relevant and enticing as it always was.
Whether you are a fan of jazz already or are new to its nuanced and eclectic sound, you’ll find these young musicians electrifying. Here’s a look at ten up-and-coming jazz musicians to watch today.
1. Shabaka Hutchings
Shabaka Hutchings was born in London but raised in Barbados and became an award-winning player who can transition between the clarinet and saxophone with a startling amount of ease. While he started out in calypso bands, he transitioned, becoming a bastion in the UK contemporary jazz scene. Hutchings draws on diverse musical traditions to create a rich tapestry of sound.
Currently, he leads three separate bands. Possibly the most intriguing is The Comet is Coming, a unique trio that blends jazz, electronic music, and a whole lot of attitude to create something futuristic that will likely alter the course of several genres.
2. Christian Scott aTunde Adjuah
Hailing from New Orleans, the birthplace of jazz, Christian Scott aTunde Adjuah’s trumpet playing is awe-inspiring. While his music respects the origins of jazz, it also includes a variety of influences. He fuses jazz with hip-hop, African music, rock, and more. It seems his goal is to always keep the listener on the edge of their seat, and he accomplishes it in spades.
3. Kamasi Washington
Jazz has been connecting with a younger audience in recent years, and many consider Kamasi Washington one of the best modern jazz artists responsible. Drawing inspiration from John Coltrane, Washington has managed to blend classic jazz elements with contemporary styles. In 2015, he released The Epic, an inspirational triple-set with solid jazz roots and hip-hop influences. He even appeared on To Pimp A Butterfly, an innovative album by Kendrick Lamar.
4. Esperanza Spalding
With a voice reminiscent of a young Joni Mitchell, Esperanza Spalding isn’t just a talented jazz musician but an innovator. Celebrated for her ability to sing jazz, she has made significant contributions to contemporary jazz. Her compositions genuinely take the listener on an unexpected jazz music journey by weaving jazz, Latin, rock, and funk sounds together into an avant-garde jazz fusion experience unlike any other musician.
Makaya McCraven
Paris-born but raised in the United States, Makaya McCraven is a self-proclaimed “beat scientist” with serious drum skills and a talent for composing. He applies a hip-hop attitude to avant-garde jazz, focusing on keeping the listener guessing as he weaves a tune.
6. Nubya Garcia
Another young jazz musician in the UK scene that’s making waves is Nubya Garcia. The tenor saxophone player and composer made her solo debut with the critically acclaimed album – Nubya’s 5ive – in 2017, showcasing her unique talents and artistic choices across various genres. She’s also recorded with some greats, including Ezra Collective and Sons of Kemet, as well as Makaya McCraven, another up-and-comer. Additionally, she plays with Maisha, a spiritual jazz ensemble.
7. Camila Meza
Born in Chile, Camila Meza easily qualifies as a triple threat. Along with being an exceptional guitarist and singer, she’s also an accomplished songwriter. Her music features classic jazz elements melded with the sounds of Brazil, South American folk, and even American pop.
Among jazz artists today, Camila Meza stands out for her innovative approach, blending traditional jazz with modern influences and diverse musical styles, thus contributing significantly to the evolution of the genre.
8. Kendrick Scott Oracle
With a sound dripping with R&B and hip-hop undertones, Kendrick Scott Oracle is a drummer and composer from Houston. His take on jazz is exquisite but incredibly unique, often featuring unexpected additions, like turntables, alongside traditional instruments like saxophones and pianos.
9. Jazzmeia Horn
With a name like Jazzmeia Horn, it can be easy to see how jazz would ultimately be a calling. The singer from Texas scored rave reviews with her debut album in 2017, A Social Call. Her sound resembles the active approach used by greats like Ella Fitzgerald and Carmen McRae, but it never feels derivative. Instead, Jazzmeia Horn is uniquely her own, and the jazz world will be better for it.
10. Connie Han
Connie Han, a pianist from Los Angeles, exudes a maturity far beyond her age. Her blend of traditional and modern jazz is both edgy and a bit unexpected, a reflection of her unique vision for the genre. Her album Crime Zone pays homage to jazz piano greats like Chick Corea, Herbie Hancock, McCoy Tyner, and Kenny Kirkland while still maintaining her own sound, and it’s truly something worth experiencing.
Regional Jazz Talent
There’s loads of regional jazz talent out there, with artists from all over the world contributing to the genre. Ezra Collective is a London-based jazz group at the forefront of the new wave of UK jazz. They’re energetic live and write innovative music, so they have a dedicated following. Nubya Garcia is a British jazz artist, saxophonist, composer, and bandleader who’s made a big impact with her debut album, “Nubya’s 5ive.”
Alfa Mist is a pianist and music producer from Newham, East London, who weaves heavy beats into his music to create a jazz/hip hop hybrid. Yussef Dayes is a drummer and composer with deep roots in the South London jazz scene and brings a fresh perspective to jazz with his drumming.
Masego is a 27-year-old musician from Kingston, Jamaica. He’s a vocalist and instrumentalist who plays saxophone in most of his music. He’s able to blend jazz with R&B and hip-hop and is a standout in the contemporary jazz scene. These regional jazz talents are making significant contributions to the genre, each with their own sound and style.
Takuya Kuroda is a Japanese jazz trumpeter whose music blends traditional jazz with funk, soul, and Afrobeat. He’s gained recognition for his sound and has released several critically acclaimed albums, including Rising Son, produced by the legendary José James. His approach to composition and improvisation is innovative, and he has a global following, so he is a standout in the contemporary jazz scene. Whether he’s with his band or collaborating with other prominent artists, he’s constantly pushing boundaries and offering a fresh perspective on the jazz genre.
Where to Discover the Next Generation of Jazz Talent
In the world of jazz, few experiences are as exciting as discovering up-and-coming artists who are pushing the genre forward. Intimate jazz clubs are the perfect setting to experience up-close-and-personal performances by up-and-coming musicians helping shape jazz’s future. There’s nothing like the electricity in the room when up-and-coming artists take the stage, pouring their hearts and souls into every note.
Jazz festivals often feature rising stars and legendary performers for a delightful mix of tradition and innovation. Jazz-focused cruises are another great way to enjoy live music while sailing through breathtaking scenery. Many universities with renowned music programs also offer performances by their talented students.
Open mic nights and local music venues are great places to experience up-and-coming jazz musicians. These up-and-coming artists are passionate about their craft and hungry to share their music with audiences. Whether you’re a jazz aficionado or just discovering the genre, experiencing up-and-coming jazz musicians is the perfect way to ensure the music lives on for generations.
