The Jazz Foundation of America held its annual spring benefit gala, A Great Night in Harlem, Thursday evening at Jazz at Lincoln Center, and the room delivered exactly what the occasion called for. Ten-time Grammy Award winner Norah Jones received the 2026 Dr. Billy Taylor Humanitarian Award, the evening’s central honor, recognizing her contributions to music and community.
Artistic Director Steve Jordan shaped a program that moved across jazz history with real intention. The night included a centennial tribute to Miles Davis featuring Gary Bartz and Patrice Rushen, a set from Buster Williams’ Something More featuring Lenny White, a tribute to Ernest Ranglin spotlighting 17-year-old guitar phenom Marel Hidalgo, and a tribute to Cal Tjader and Willie Bobo featuring Juan Diego Villalobos and Sammy Figueroa. Special guest Ann Curry also appeared during the program.
Gary Bartz and Buster Williams were named 2026 Jazz Legacies Fellowship recipients, both recognized for careers that have shaped the language of jazz across decades. The broader performer list included Mino Cinelu, Clifton Anderson, Stefon Harris, James Genus, Winard Harper, and many more, reflecting the depth of talent the Jazz Foundation continues to support and celebrate.
Now in its 37th year, the Jazz Foundation of America provides housing assistance, pro bono medical care, disaster relief, and direct financial support to musicians facing crisis due to age, illness, or unforeseen circumstances. In the past year alone, JFA assisted in more than 7,000 cases. Past gala honorees include Sonny Rollins, Herbie Hancock, Tony Bennett, Roberta Flack, Chaka Khan, and Keith Richards.