New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival • April 23 – Jazz Tent Headliner

“Jamaica to Jazz” and “Jamericana” – Two Landmark Concerts, One Extraordinary Month

Dr. Monty Alexander, C.D., O.J. to perform at The Moss Center in Miami (Jazz Baltica image)

CaribPR Wire, NEW YORK/NEW ORLEANS, March 25, 2026: April 2026 belongs to Dr. Monty Alexander. The Grammy-nominated Jamaican-born pianist, widely regarded as one of the greatest jazz musicians alive, is set to deliver two landmark performances this month – first at New York City’s legendary Blue Note Jazz Club for a sold-out Easter weekend run, and then as the headliner of the Jazz Tent at the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, where Jazz Fest will honor Jamaica in an historic celebration under his banner.

Hot off a triumphant reception at Miami’s Moss Center last month, Alexander brings his electrifying “Jamaica to Jazz” concert experience to two of America’s most storied music stages – commanding a full ensemble of up to seven world-class musicians and turning every performance into an unforgettable journey through the soul of Caribbean sound and the art of jazz.

NEW YORK CITY – BLUE NOTE JAZZ CLUB | EASTER WEEKEND, APRIL 2–5

Beginning Thursday, April 2 and running through Easter Sunday, April 5, Alexander takes the Blue Note stage for eight shows across four nights – two each evening at 8:00 PM and 10:30 PM. The Blue Note Jazz Club, at 131 W. 3rd Street in Greenwich Village, is the most celebrated jazz venue in the world, and Alexander’s return there is nothing short of a homecoming.

“Jamaica to Jazz” traces the blazing arc of Jamaican music into the heart of modern jazz – from the early ska sessions of Kingston’s first recording studios to the international stages that made history — told through the hands and voice of the man who helped build it all. From the American Songbook to the blues, from gospel to bebop, from calypso to reggae, every set is a living history lesson delivered with irresistible joy.

Alexander personally introduces each musician from the stage – a signature touch that makes every show feel like an invitation into his world. With as many as seven musicians joining him on stage, the ensemble is an event unto itself.

Venue: Blue Note Jazz Club, 131 W. 3rd St., New York, NY 10012

Dates: Thursday, April 2 – Sunday, April 5, 2026

Shows: 8:00 PM (Doors 6:00 PM) & 10:30 PM (Doors 10:00 PM) nightly

Tickets: bluenotejazz.com/nyc • Phone: 212.475.8592 • $20 minimum per person

NEW ORLEANS – JAZZ & HERITAGE FESTIVAL | APRIL 23: “JAMERICANA”

Three weeks later, on April 23, Dr. Monty Alexander brings the celebration south – to New Orleans, the other great capital of jazz in the African diaspora – for a performance that is already being called one of the most historically significant moments of Jazz Fest 2026. Alexander headlines the Jazz Tent Stage at 5:45 PM, closing out the day as its marquee act.

But this is more than a headline slot. Jazz Fest 2026 is honoring Jamaica – co-presented under Alexander’s name – in a landmark cultural celebration dubbed “Jamericana.” The Jamaica Tourist Board is actively involved, with representatives confirmed to be on the ground in New Orleans with a full program of Jamaica-themed activities and presentations surrounding the performance. When Alexander sits down at the piano that evening, it will be a moment where Kingston and New Orleans, reggae and jazz, the Caribbean and the American South, converge on one stage.

“Jamericana” is Dr. Alexander’s signature artistic concept: the electrifying fusion of Jamaica’s African-rooted rhythmic tradition with the jazz born in America’s Deep South. At Jazz Fest, the concept reaches its fullest expression – not just music, but a celebration of two cultures, two cities, and one unbroken line of Black musical genius.

Festival: New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival 2026

Date: Wednesday, April 23, 2026

Stage: Jazz Tent – Headliner

Time: 5:45 PM

Festival Info: nojazzfest.com/music

ABOUT DR. MONTY ALEXANDER, C.D., O.J. – A PIONEER WHO SHAPED THE SOUND OF THE WORLD

Born on June 6, 1944, in Kingston, Jamaica, Monty Alexander was playing Christmas carols by ear at four and performing in local clubs by 14. As a teenager in late-1950s Jamaica, he played in the island’s earliest recording studios – taking part in the foundational ska sessions that would give rise to reggae and reshape global music culture forever.

At just 16, he had recordings on the Jamaican hit parade. By 19, he had made his way to New York City, where he captivated audiences at Jilly’s – the legendary club owned by Frank Sinatra’s close confidant Jilly Rizzo. That connection ignited collaborations with Sinatra, Tony Bennett, Ray Brown, Milt Jackson, Wes Montgomery, Dizzy Gillespie, Miles Davis, and Sonny Rollins.

Today, with more than 75 albums and performances at virtually every major jazz festival and concert hall on earth, Alexander is ranked the fifth greatest jazz pianist of all time in

The Fifty Greatest Jazz Piano Players of All Time (Hal Leonard Publishing). The prestigious Montreux Jazz Festival has presented him 23 times since 1976.

HONORS

• Commander in the Order of Distinction (C.D.) – Jamaica, 2000
• Order of Jamaica (O.J.) – 2022, for sterling global contributions to Jamaican music and jazz
• Honorary Doctorate (DLitt) – University of the West Indies, 2018
• Grammy Nomination – One of jazz’s most celebrated recording artists

STAY CONNECTED WITH MONTY

Facebook: facebook.com/officialmontyalexander  |  Twitter/X: @_MontyAlexander  |  Instagram: @monty.alexander  |  montyalexander.com

Dr. Monty Alexander, C.D., O.J. to perform at The Moss Center in Miami (Jazz Baltica image)

CaribPR Wire, CUTLER BAY, FL, Feb. 6, 2026: This Black History Month, The Moss Center in Miami brings a living legend to its main stage as world-renowned, Jamaican-born pianist, Dr. Monty Alexander, C.D., O.J., headlines an unforgettable evening of music, culture, and legacy on Saturday, February 21, 2026, from 8:00 – 9:30 p.m.

Titled ‘Monty Alexander: Jamaica To Jazz,’ the concert traces the electrifying journey of Jamaican music into global jazz – told through the hands of one of its original architects. From early ska sessions in Kingston’s first recording studios to international jazz stages alongside the greats, Alexander’s story is the story of Caribbean sound shaping the world. The moment is especially poignant as Alexander reflects on the legacy of Jamaica’s musical giants and the fragility of an era shaped by pioneers such as Jimmy Cliff, Third World co-founder Stephen “Cat” Coore and legendary drummer Sly Dunbar, whom he has recorded with in the past.

A Pioneer Who Helped Shape Modern Music

Born on June 6, 1944, in Kingston, Jamaica, Alexander’s musical journey began early. By the age of four, he was playing Christmas carols by ear, and by 14, he was performing in local clubs. As a teenager in late-1950s Jamaica, Alexander played in the island’s earliest recording studios and took part in the formative sessions that sparked ska – the rhythmic foundation that would later give rise to reggae.

At just 16, he already had recordings on the Jamaican hit parade before making the leap to the United States. He landed in Miami in 1962 and by 1963, at only 19, had moved to New York City, where he was soon captivating audiences at Jilly’s, the legendary club owned by Frank Sinatra’s close confidant, Jilly Rizzo. This led to a collaboration with Sinatra and later Tony Bennett, Ray Brown, Milt Jackson, Wes Montgomery, Dizzy Gillespie, Miles Davis and Sonny Rollins. Sinatra eventually encouraged Alexander to join him in New York and his career took off.

For Alexander, jazz and Jamaican music are inseparable – intertwined in a signature sound that is joyful, improvisational, and steeped in history. During the Miami performance, he will use the opportunity to share personal stories from his journey as a pioneer of Jamaican music, offering audiences rare insight into the moments that shaped his extraordinary career.

A Legacy Beyond Compare
With more than 75 albums and performances at virtually every major jazz festival and venue worldwide, Alexander is widely regarded as one of the greatest pianists of all time. He was named the fifth greatest jazz pianist in ‘The Fifty Greatest Jazz Piano Players of All Time’ (Hal Leonard Publishing).

His honors include:

• Commander in the Order of Distinction (C.D.) – Jamaica, 2000.
• Order of Jamaica (O.J.) – 2022, for sterling global contributions to Jamaican music and jazz.
• Honorary Doctorate (DLitt) – University of the West Indies, 2018.

Music With A Mission: Hurricane Melissa Relief
During the performance, the Global Empowerment Mission, (GEM), will collect monetary donations to support Hurricane Melissa relief efforts in Jamaica. Guests are encouraged to visit the GEM table in the lobby. The Moss Center will also collect canned goods and hygiene items, including:

• Canned: protein, vegetables, fruits, beans.
• Hygiene: toothbrushes, toothpaste, deodorant, feminine hygiene products, toilet paper, wet wipes.

GEM’s Caribbean team, based in Kingston, has already deployed over one million pounds of emergency aid across the island and remains committed to long-term recovery.

Ticket Information

Ticket Prices: $35 – $65 or $80 VIP (includes premium table seating + complimentary wine, beer, or soft drink).

Get Tickets: https://tickets-smdcac.miamidade.gov/TheatreManager/1/login?event=2649 or by calling the Box Office: 786-573-5300

Discounts available for seniors, students, and groups and free parking is available on site.

All patrons, including infants, require a ticket; no outside food or beverages and no strollers are permitted inside the auditorium

Stay Connected With Monty

Keep up with Monty and his journey across stages worldwide:

• Facebook: facebook.com/officialmontyalexander
• Twitter/X: @_MontyAlexander
• Instagram: @monty.alexander
• YouTube & Official Website: montyalexander.com

Dr. Monty Alexander, C.D., O.J. (Bernd Scholkemper/INNTone)

CaribPR Wire, NEW YORK, NY, September 11, 2025: This September, New York’s jazz faithful are in for a treat, as one of the world’s most beloved pianists, the legendary Hon. Dr. Monty Alexander, C.D., O.J., returns to Birdland Jazz Club in the city he calls his “adopted hometown.”

The Grammy-nominated virtuoso, revered globally for fusing the soul of Jamaica with the improvisational fire of jazz, will bring his infectious spirit and boundless creativity to the stage, alongside bassist Luke Sellick and drummer Jason Brown. Together, the trio will perform from Tuesday, September 16th through Saturday, September 20th at the iconic venue, located at 315 West 44th Street, New York, NY 10036.

Showtimes are 7:00 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. nightly, Tuesday through Thursday, and 8:30 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, ensuring multiple opportunities to experience a master at work.

A Living History Of Jazz And Jamaica

Alexander’s artistry is as alive and dynamic today as it was when he first burst on to the scene as a teenager in Kingston, Jamaica. At just 16, he already had recordings on the Jamaican hit parade before making the leap to the United States. He landed in Miami in 1962 and by 1963, at only 19, had moved to New York City, where he was soon captivating audiences at Jilly’s, the legendary club owned by Frank Sinatra’s close confidant, Jilly Rizzo. That was 65 years ago, yet his performances remain as fresh and fiery as ever.

In every set, Alexander channels the rhythms of his homeland and blends them seamlessly with the grooves, melodies and harmonies of America’s greatest art form. Whether it’s the swing of the American songbook, the soul of the blues, the reverence of gospel, the inventiveness of bebop, or the pulsating vibes of reggae and calypso, Monty Alexander builds musical bridges that connect cultures and ignite audiences. Each note carries with it his Jamaican heritage and a message of unity, joy, and resilience.

His motto – “to build up the heat and kick up a storm” – is not just a phrase, but a promise. For audiences, it means being transported on a journey that is equal parts elegance, energy and exhilaration.

A Legacy Beyond Compare

With more than 75 albums to his name and countless performances across every major jazz festival and venue on the planet, Alexander’s reputation is firmly cemented as one of the greats. He was named the fifth greatest jazz pianist of all time in The Fifty Greatest Jazz Piano Players of All Time (Hal Leonard Publishing), a recognition that underscores both his virtuosity and his influence.

His homeland of Jamaica has also celebrated him at the highest levels: in 2000, he was appointed Commander in the Order of Distinction (C.D.), and in 2022, he received the Order of Jamaica (O.J.) for his “sterling contributions to the promotion of Jamaican music and the jazz genre globally.” In 2018, the University of the West Indies awarded him an honorary doctorate (DLitt), recognizing not just his technical mastery, but also his cultural impact on generations of listeners.

Adding to his living legacy, the very trio that will join him on stage at Birdland – Sellick and Brown – also recorded with him on his most recent album, D-Day, which received multiple “Best of the Year” honors in France last year.

Birdland: A Perfect Stage For Monty’s Magic

Birdland Jazz Club, known as “The Jazz Corner of the World,” has long been a home for the greatest names in jazz. For Alexander, returning to this stage is more than tradition – it’s a homecoming. His Birdland shows attract loyal fans, new listeners and fellow musicians eager to be part of his musical storytelling. Now, 65 years since his first recordings, Alexander’s legacy continues to grow, inspiring new generations while captivating audiences worldwide.

Ticket Information

Tickets for this must-see residency are available now at birdlandjazz.com. With limited seating and Monty’s enduring popularity, early booking is strongly encouraged. Visit the official event page here or birdlandjazz.com/ 24 hours a day.

Stay Connected with Monty

Keep up with Monty and his journey across stages worldwide:

• Facebook: facebook.com/officialmontyalexander
• Twitter/X: @_MontyAlexander
• Instagram: @monty.alexander
• YouTube & Official Website: montyalexander.com

Dr. Monty Alexander, C.D., O.J. (Jean-Baptiste Millot Image)

CaribPR Wire, NEW YORK, NY, May 27, 2025: In a career spanning over six decades, Jamaican-born jazz pianist Monty Alexander has built a legacy on his ability to blend the rhythms of his Caribbean heritage with the improvisational spirit of American jazz. This summer, the Grammy-nominated artist embarks on a West Coast tour, bringing his distinctive sound to four cities – from May 31st to June 8th.

The tour kicks off on May 31st at the Ebony Repertory Theatre, 4718 W Washington Blvd, Los Angeles, CA, with a special benefit concert for The Jazz Bakery. Originally scheduled as a standard performance, the show transformed into a fundraiser after The Jazz Bakery faced unexpected funding cuts that threatened its operations. Upon learning of the situation, Alexander volunteered to perform, turning the evening into a celebration of resilience and community support. He will be joined by bassist Luke Sellick, and drummer Jason Brown for an 8 p.m. performance.

Following Los Angeles, Alexander heads to Yoshi’s at 510 Embarcadero West, Oakland, CA., on June 1st. Known for its intimate setting and rich history, Yoshi’s provides the perfect backdrop for Alexander’s dynamic performance style. Audiences can expect a set list that traverses jazz standards, reggae-infused compositions, and original works that showcase his virtuosic technique and emotional depth.

On June 2nd, the tour continues to the Kuumbwa Jazz Center at 320 Cedar St. in Santa Cruz.  Show time is 7 p.m. sharp. Celebrating its 50th anniversary, Kuumbwa has long been a haven for jazz enthusiasts. Alexander’s appearance there underscores the venue’s commitment to presenting world-class talent.

The tour concludes with a four-night ‘residency’ at Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley in Seattle from June 5th to June 8^th from 7:30 PM nightly. A staple in the Pacific Northwest’s jazz scene, Jazz Alley offers an intimate environment where Alexander’s interplay with Sellick and Brown can truly shine.

Tour Dates & Tickets:

• May 31: The Jazz Bakery at the Ebony Repertory Theatre, 4718 W Washington Blvd, Los Angeles, CA.  Tickets range from $54.23 – $312.98 including fees and can be accessed HERE

• June 1: Yoshi’s, Oakland, CA. Tickets for this show range from $51.10 and can be obtained HERE
• June 2: Kuumbwa Jazz Center, Santa Cruz, CA. Advance tickets are $52.45 and $52.50 at the door. Buy tickets HERE
• June 5–8: Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, Seattle, WA. Tickets are $43.50 and can be bought HERE

ABOUT MONTY

Born on June 6, 1944, in Kingston, Jamaica, Alexander’s musical journey began early. By the age of four, he was playing Christmas carols by ear, and by 14, he was performing in local clubs. His move to the United States in the early 1960s marked the beginning of a prolific career that would see him collaborate with jazz legends such as Dizzy Gillespie, Sonny Rollins, and Ray Brown. His discography spans over 75 recordings, reflecting a versatility that bridges genres and generations. Alexander’s contributions to music have been recognized with numerous accolades, including the Order of Jamaica and the Commander in the Order of Distinction from the Jamaican government. His performances are characterized by a blend of technical mastery and heartfelt expression, qualities that continue to captivate audiences worldwide.

This West Coast tour offers a rare opportunity to experience Alexander’s artistry live. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to his music, these performances promise an evening of exceptional jazz that honors tradition while embracing innovation.

CONNECT

Stay connected with Alexander’s latest updates by following him on Facebook at facebook.com/officialmontyalexander, on Twitter at  @MontyAlexander and on Instagram at monty.alexander You can also explore his music on his YouTube channel or his official website, montyalexander.com.

Dr. Monty Alexander, C.D., O.J. (Jean-Baptiste Millot Image)

CaribPR Wire, NEW YORK, NY, January 8, 2025: Celebrated Jamaican-born, Grammy-nominated jazz virtuoso, Hon. Dr. Monty Alexander, CD, O.J., is set to usher in 2025 in spectacular fashion with a historic, career retrospective and musical storytelling concert at Lincoln Center in New York City on January 24^th and 25^th.

Celebrating his remarkable 80th year of life and musical legacy, the legendary musician will take center stage for a landmark two-night concert series titled “A Living History: Jamaica to Jazz” at the Rose Theater at Lincoln Center, Broadway at 60^th St., in New York, NY, at 7:30 each evening.

“This will be a journey through the living history of Jamaican and American music and life – from the late ’40s to the present,” said the artist, who fondly refers to himself simply as ‘Monty,’ and often jokes about graduating from the “street corner.”

“It will be living history long before Bob Marley came on the scene… a story of Jamaican music and life, intertwined with American music and culture, told through the lens of one man – someone some now call ‘a living legend,’” added Alexander, an alumnus of Jamaica College, who has witnessed and lived through countless musical and social experiences, including the pre-civil rights era in the United States.

From hearing and then performing Christmas carols on the piano without any formal training to the awe of his mother at age 4, to playing at Studio One by age 14, Alexander’s journey is nothing short of remarkable. After migrating to Miami, Florida with his family, he honed his craft in both white and non-white clubs and hotels, eventually meeting legends like Harry Belafonte and Frank Sinatra. This led to his move to New York City, where he crossed paths with icons such as the great Duke Ellington and Miles Davis. Today, he has established himself as a global jazz phenomenon, performing worldwide across the US, Europe, the Caribbean, Africa, South America, and Asia, with notable appearances in Japan and South Korea.

“I seek modesty and humility, but I find myself now being called a living legend in the fact that many of the great musicians I played with have now passed. I, however, prefer not to think that way but look forward to sharing this 8-decade history with the people. It is a can’t miss event and will be a once-in-a-lifetime experience,” said Alexander.

More than 20 exceptional artists who have shared the stage and studio with Alexander throughout his illustrious career will join this musical celebration that will feature mento, ska, calypso, reggae, jazz, blues, gospel and the American songbook. He will be joined by an internationally acclaimed lineup of musicians, including Quentin Baxter, drums; T.K. Blue, alto saxophone; Jason Brown, drums; James Cammack, bass; Wayne Escoffery, tenor saxophone; Dominick Farinacci, trumpet; Andrae Murchison, trombone; Randy Napoleon, guitar; Steve Nelson, vibraphone; Victor Provost, steel drums; Luke Sellick, bass; Hassan Shakur, bass; Herlin Riley, drums; Robert Thomas Jr., hand drums; Courtney Panton, percussion; Justin Poindexter, guitar; Joshua Thomas, guitar; Jr. Wedderburn, percussion; Karl Wright, drums and percussion.

Deeply rooted in his Jamaican heritage, Alexander infuses the spirit of his homeland into every performance, using his music as a bridge between cultures, uniting audiences from all backgrounds and leaving a lasting legacy of joy and connection. Each performance or vignette on January 24^th and 25^th will honor the diverse influences that have shaped his distinctive style, reflected in his extensive catalog of over 75 albums.

As he humbly states, quoting Maya Angelou: “‘If you don’t know where you’ve come from, you don’t know where you’re going.’”

Ticket Information

For tickets to Alexander’s can’t miss show, “A Living History – From Jamaica to Jazz,” visit the official event page here or jazz.org/monty 24 hours a day or through CenterCharge at 212-721-6500, open daily from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Fans can also buy tickets in person at the box office, located on Broadway at 60th Street, Ground Floor. A $5.00 Jazz at Lincoln Center Facility Fee applies to all ticket purchases, except for $10 Hot Seats. A $7 handling fee also applies when purchasing tickets from CenterCharge or when purchasing tickets online via jazz.org.

Box Office hours: Tuesday-Sunday: 10:30 a.m.-7:30 p.m. (or 30 minutes past curtain). On Wednesdays, prior to a Rose theater concert, the Box Office will open at 10 a.m.

More On Monty

Stay connected with Alexander’s latest updates by following him on Facebook at facebook.com/officialmontyalexander, on Twitter at  @_MontyAlexander and on Instagram at monty.alexander You can also explore his music on his YouTube channel or his official website, montyalexander.com.

Following the release of his latest musical masterpiece, the album ‘D-Day,’ on March 29th under the prestigious French record label PeeWee, Alexander will grace the stage at prestigious Blue Note Hawaii. The venue, located inside the Outrigger Waikiki Beach Resort at 2335 Kalakaua Ave., is renowned as Hawaii’s premier 326-seat live music destination.

The performance, scheduled for May 4th, promises an electrifying celebration of the album’s release ahead of Alexander’s milestone birthday. Joined by bassist Luke Sellick and drummer Jason Brown, two shows are scheduled at 5 p.m. and 8:30 p.m.

“I am very happy to celebrate my upcoming 80th in Hawaii at the Blue Note, where I will not only play selections from my brand new release, D-Day, but also play selections that reflect my beloved Jamaica where I was born, and where I have fond memories of participating in many recording sessions at Studio 1, as a music pioneer at the dawn of Ska when I was still a teenager,” commented Alexander. “Hope to see as many of my fans as possible – and of course, especially those who love the music of Jamaica.”

Tickets for the event are priced at $35-45, offering an unparalleled opportunity to experience the magic of Alexander’s legendary jazz expertise.

Fans can get tickets here by logging on now to https://www.bluenotejazz.com/hawaii/shows/?eid=13603273

MONTY’S OTHER UPCOMING LIVE PERFORMANCES & BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION SHOWS

The release of ‘D-Day,’ will be accompanied by other tour dates to also mark Alexander’s birthday worldwide. They will include:

• The Puerto Rico Jazz Festival in San Juan on May 17^th.
• The Bern Jazz Festival in Switzerland from May 21^st to May 26^th.
• Birdland, New York City from May 28^th to June 1^st for his D-Day and 80^th birthday celebration.
• Jazz Alley, Seattle from June 6-9^th.
• The San Francisco Jazz Festival on June 11^th.
• Blue’s Alley, Washington, D.C. from June 14-16^th.
• Ronnie Scott’s London from June 24-28^th.
• New Morning, Domaine de Fontblanche in France on July 3^rd and July 6^th, respectively; and.
• Victoria Hall, Switzerland on Nov. 25^th.

See all performances and book advance tickets now at https://bnds.us/b8c6pc.

D’DAY’S FULL TRACK

The full track of the new album is as follows:

01 – Intro [0:16]

02 – I’ll Never Smile Again (R. Lowe) [04:18]

03 – Aggression (M. Alexander) [06:03]

04 – Oh Why (M. Alexander) [06:37]

05 – Restoration (M. Alexander) [06:34]

06 – June 6 (M. Alexander) [06:14]

07 – River of Peace (M. Alexander) [05:49]

08 – Smile (C. Chaplin) [06:30]

09 – V.E. Swing (M. Alexander) [04:22]

10 – You Can See (M. Alexander) [05:33]

11 – D-Day Voices (M. Alexander/L. Alexander) [04:28]

12 – Day-O (Trad.) [02:52

ABOUT ALEXANDER

Renowned for his extensive discography and hailed as one of the greatest jazz pianists of all time, Alexander’s contributions to music have earned him prestigious honors, including the Commander in the Order of Distinction and the Order of Jamaica. His unwavering passion for music, coupled with his Jamaican and Caribbean heritage, continues to inspire audiences worldwide.

Born in Kingston, Jamaica, on June 6, 1944, Alexander’s musical journey began at an early age. By 16, he was already proficient in various musical genres, including cha-cha, merengue, calypso, reggae, and ska. Moving to the United States at 17, he quickly gained recognition, accompanying jazz legends like Frank Sinatra, Milt Jackson, Dizzy Gillespie, and others. Today, Alexander remains an iconic figure in American jazz, blues, and gospel, infusing his music with the vibrant rhythms of his Jamaican and Caribbean heritage.

For more information, visit his YouTube channel or his official website at https://montyalexander.com/. You can also follow him on Facebook at facebook.com/officialmontyalexander or stay updated on his performances through his Twitter handle, @montyHKE.

EDITOR’S NOTE: An image for use with this release is available HERE

CARIBPR WIRE, Tues. May 23, 2023: On April 25, 2023, the world bid farewell to Harry Belafonte, a true icon of music, cinema, and activism. I not only mourn the loss of an extraordinary individual, but also a dear friend.

Growing up in Jamaica, my home, Harry played a significant role in my life. In 1956, his album “Jump Up Calypso” emerged, validating the heritage music of Jamaica. The delightful songs sung by Harry, such as “Banana Boat” and “Island in the Sun,” brought smiles to everyone’s faces.

Long before the rise of Bob Marley and the popularization of reggae, Harry was already putting Jamaica on the map with Calypso, or as we called it then, mento. He brought Caribbean rhythms and influences to the forefront of popular music, paving the way for generations of artists who followed in his footsteps.

Harry possessed both striking looks and a compelling voice. When he appeared in movies, his talent as an actor shone brilliantly. I recall watching him in the 1959 film “The World, The Flesh and The Devil,” and I distinctly remember my mother having a crush on him. In fact, Harry Belafonte was adored by many ladies of that era.

As I began my own journey in music, Harry became one of my influential figures. His attitude, grace, integrity, and warmth left a lasting impact on me. Our friendship flourished when I moved to the United States, as we shared a common Jamaican heritage. Despite being an American born in Harlem, his parents hailed from Jamaica, and he even attended high school there for a few years.

Harry always treated me with great kindness. Whenever he saw me, he would joyfully exclaim, “cousin!” Our bond grew stronger over time.

I also cherish the memory of Harry’s contributions to the civil rights movement in America. He leveraged his celebrity status and rallied his Hollywood friends, including Paul Newman, Tony Bennett, and his dear companion from The Bahamas, Sidney Poitier, to join Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. in raising awareness for the cause before marching in Selma.

Harry’s activism extended beyond the borders of the United States. He utilized his fame and influence to shed light on human rights abuses in South Africa and other parts of the world. He embraced his platform as a performer to champion the issues closest to his heart, inspiring countless others to do the same. Harry Belafonte was not only an extraordinary entertainer but also an unwavering advocate for social justice and civil rights.

In recent years, I had the privilege of spending time with him on several occasions. Our last meeting occurred on December 16th, 2021, when Harry received the distinguished title of Chevalier of the Legion of Honor from the President of the Republic of France. I was honored to be among the select few non-family members present at the private ceremony held in his New York City home. Though time had passed, and Harry seemed quieter than usual, we shared a wonderful moment, exchanging smiles and embraces. During that special event, Mrs. Belafonte, Pamela Frank, took this lovely picture that I share with great honor and pride.

Losing him fills me with deep sadness. Harry, I will miss you and the tremendous difference you made as an activist for people of color and the less fortunate.

Harry’s legacy serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative power of music. His music brought joy and inspiration to millions around the world, while his activism fostered real and lasting change.

As we remember Harry, let us draw inspiration from his example and continue to utilize music and art as vehicles for promoting social justice and equality for all.

In closing, I would like to share a quote from Harry Belafonte that has always resonated with me: “The artist is the radical voice of society.” Let us all strive to be that radical voice, and to use our talents and platforms to make the world a better place.

Au Revoir Harry. God Bless, and Happy Journey Home.

EDITOR’S NOTE: Dr. Monty Alexander, C.D, is a Grammy-nominated, award-winning Jamaican-born, world renown musician who was recently awarded the Order of Jamaica (OJ) for sterling contribution to the promotion of Jamaican music and the Jazz genre interpretations globally. Hear his version of Harry Belafonte’s ‘Island In The Sun’ at youtube.com/watch?v=XSf96gDBMco

GET PHOTO FOR USE WITH THIS ARTICLE HERE

CAPTION: Dr. Monty Alexander, C.D., (l), with Harry Belafonte at his home in Manhattan, NY, in 2021. (Pamela Frank image)

The world-renowned, international musician will perform ‘Love Notes’ at the Rinker’s playhouse at The Raymond F. Kravis Center, 701 Okeechobee Blvd, West Palm Beach, FL 33401, on Feb. 14th, for two shows only – at 6:30 p.m. and 9 p.m.

The intimate and romantic evening, according to Dr. Alexander, will feature songs from the greats he grew up with as a child in Jamaica, such as Nat King Cole, Tony Bennett, Louis Armstrong, Frank Sinatra and Billie Holiday, as well as Jamaican musicians from the era of ska and reggae, including Sly and Robbie.

Alexander was blessed to not only grow up on the music of the American greats he listened to as a child in Jamaica, but later to play with some in his early musical career, including the legendary Sinatra.

The Feb. 14^th Valentine Show will also feature international vocalist, Caterina Zapponi, as well as Cleveland-born American jazz trumpeter, composer, and big band leader, Dominick Farinacci; acoustic guitar and talented Jamaican-born electric bass player, Joshua Thomas; world renown drummer on the Jazz scene, Jason Brown, and New York City-based jazz bassist, composer and teacher, Luke Sellick.

Fans will also be able to meet Dr. Alexander after the last set at a special CD signing of his ‘Love Notes’ album that’s available for sale on Amazon. Songs on the latest album include: ‘These Love Notes,’ ‘Moon River,’ ‘Faith Can Move Mountains,’ ‘As Time Goes By,’ ‘The Nearness of You’ and ‘Island in the Sun,’ among other.

Alexander says the show is also a celebration of his recent award from the Jamaican government and a tribute to his roots. Tickets for each show range from $39.00 – $69.00 and are available for purchase HERE only or on the Kravis Center website.

ABOUT MONTY

Nearly sixty years after he moved to the United States from Kingston, Jamaica, his hometown, Alexander remains an American classic, touring the world relentlessly with various projects and delighting a global audience drawn to his vibrant personality and soulful message. A perennial favorite at Jazz festivals and venues worldwide, including at the Montreux Jazz Festival where he has appeared 23 times since 1976, his spirited conception is one informed by the timeless verities: endless melody-making, effervescent grooves, sophisticated voicings, a romantic spirit, and a consistent predisposition. As Alexander accurately states: “to build up the heat and kick up a storm.”

In the course of any given performance, Alexander applies that aesthetics to a repertoire spanning a broad range of jazz and Jamaican musical expressions in what can only be dubbed “the American songbook and the blues, gospel and bebop, calypso and reggae.”

Documented on more than 75 recordings and cited as the fifth greatest jazz pianist ever in The Fifty Greatest Jazz Piano Players of All Time (Hal Leonard Publishing), the Jamaican government designated Alexander Commander in the Order of Distinction in 2000 and conferred on him the national honor of the Order of Jamaica in 2022 for “Sterling Contributions to the Promotions of Jamaican Music and the Jazz Genre Interpretations Globally.” In further recognition of his accomplishments, the University of The West Indies bestowed him with an honorary doctorate, (DLitt).

Alexander’s latest album, released August 19, 2022, is titled, ‘Love Notes,’ and is his first recording featuring his vocals. Also, in the works is “The Monty Alexander Movie,” a documentary on Alexander’s life and music. Directed by Academy Award© winning cinematographer Jefferson Miller, and veteran filmmaker Arthur Gorson, the project is currently in production in Jamaica, the U.S. and Europe.

For more visit Alexander on YouTube or at montyalexander.com. You can also like him on Facebook at facebook.com/officialmontyalexander or keep up to date on his performances on Twitter at @montyHKE.

EDITOR’S NOTE: An image for use with this article is available HERE

The world-renowned, Grammy-nominated international musician, Dr. Alexander, CD, is kicking off his 50^th anniversary performance at Blues Alley for the first time since the pandemic began, on Thursday, March 10^th.

Performances will continue through to Sunday, March 13^th with two shows per night at 1073 Wisconsin Ave NW, Washington, DC 20007.

Dr. Alexander, whose jazz album ‘Wareika Hill RastaMonk Vibrations,’ a tribute to his roots, reigned at number one on US Jazz and NACC radio for weeks after its release, is truly excited to perform live again, and especially to mark his 5-decade performance in the nation’s capital.

Show times are 8:00 p.m. and 10 p.m. between March 10^th and 13th. Tickets are US$45 and US$50 and fans can reserve now by selecting the date and time here or at https://www.bluesalley.com/events and checking out.

In commenting on the upcoming performance, the Caribbean musical genius said: “It’s very hard to comprehend that 50 years later both Blues Alley and I are still rolling along, swinging and grooving, and bringing upliftment to the world.

ABOUT MONTY

Born Montgomery Bernard Alexander on D-Day in Kingston, Jamaica in 1944, the musical virtuoso has five decades of performances and over 70 CDs under his belt.  Alexander began his musical career at age four by playing Christmas carols by ear. He is now most widely known as an upper echelon master of the swinging piano trio function as he has demonstrated with several top-shelf groups, including iconic units with bassist John Clayton and drummer Jeff Hamilton, and with the legendary bassist Ray Brown and guitarist Herb Ellis.

Alexander also performs frequently with Harlem-Kingston Express, a double trio in which he coalesces his love for hard-swinging jazz with musical flavors that reflect his Jamaican heritage, shifting between an acoustic trio and master Jamaican practitioners of electric bass and drums.

At 78, the jazz maestro continues to tour the world despite the pandemic, with various projects, delighting a global audience drawn to his vibrant personality and soulful messages as he has done on ‘Wareika Hill RastaMonk Vibrations.’

For more, visit  him on YouTube or at montyalexander.com. You can also like him on Facebook at facebook.com/officialmontyalexander or keep up to date on his performances on Twitter at @montyHKE.

ABOUT BLUES ALLEY

Blues Alley, founded in 1965, is a jazz nightclub in the Georgetown neighborhood of Washington, D.C. Musicians who have performed at Blues Alley include Dizzy Gillespie, Wynton Marsalis, John Abercrombie, Tony Bennett, Taj Mahal, Max Roach, Sonny Rollins, Sarah Vaughan, Grover Washington Jr., Mary Wilson, Nancy Wilson and dozens more.

In 1975, during afternoons when the club was closed, Earl Hines spent a week in Blues Alley making an hour-long film for British television, featuring Frank Hart, Blue’s Alley’s “Clean-Up Man.” See more at bluesalley.com/.

PHOTO: Dr. Monty Alexander, CD. (Hollis King Image)

Dr. Monty Alexander, CD. (Hollis King Image)

CaribPR Wire, NEW YORK, NY, Mon. Jan. 6, 2020: Jamaica’s world-renowned, Grammy-nominated international musician, Dr. Monty Alexander, CD, is kicking off his exciting new season of performances this decade in sunny South Florida.

Dr. Alexander, whose new jazz album ‘Wareika Hill RastaMonk Vibrations,’ was number 1 spot on US Jazz and NACC radio weeks after its release as a tribute to his roots, will begin the New Year on January 18, 2020 at Bailey Hall at Broward College, 3501 Davie Road, Building 4, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33314.

Show time is 8:00 p.m. Tickets are US$50, $45, $40 and $10 students under 25 with valid I.D. Get tickets here.

Dr. Alexander returns to Bailey Hall by popular demand and will perform along with JJ Shakur and Jason Brown. The Caribbean musical genius says he is excited to return to South Florida, home to many Caribbean immigrants, and looks forward to seeing many in the audience.

Born Montgomery Bernard Alexander on D-Day in Kingston, Jamaica in 1944, the musical virtuoso has five decades of performances and over 70 CDs under his belt.  Alexander began his musical career at age four by playing Christmas carols by ear. He is now most widely known as an upper echelon master of the swinging piano trio function as he has demonstrated with several top-shelf groups, including iconic units with bassist John Clayton and drummer Jeff Hamilton, and with the legendary bassist Ray Brown and guitarist Herb Ellis.

Alexander also performs frequently with Harlem-Kingston Express, a double trio in which he coalesces his love for hard-swinging jazz with musical flavors that reflect his Jamaican heritage, shifting between an acoustic trio and master Jamaican practitioners of electric bass and drums.

At 75, the jazz maestro continues to tour the world relentlessly with various projects, delighting a global audience drawn to his vibrant personality and soulful messages as he has done on ‘Wareika Hill RastaMonk Vibrations.’

For a sample from Dr. Alexander’s latest album or to hear the backstory, visit  him on YouTube or at montyalexander.com. You can also like him on Facebook at facebook.com/officialmontyalexander or keep up to date on his performances on Twitter at @montyHKE.