UCPAC, WBGO, & Smooth Jazz NJ Present: Stanley Jordan: Stanley Plays The Grateful Dead at the Union County Performing Arts Center (UCPAC). Stanley Jordan Brings the Grateful Dead’s Music to Life at Hamilton Stage.
As part of their new All That Jazz series, Hamilton Stage, UCPAC, WBGO, and Smooth Jazz NJ proudly present a captivating musical journey: Stanley Jordan: Stanley Plays The Grateful Dead. This highly anticipated event promises to be an unforgettable evening, blending the improvisational spirit of jazz with the timeless music of the Grateful Dead, interpreted by the extraordinary guitarist Stanley Jordan.
A Tribute to the Grateful Dead
Stanley Jordan, renowned for his innovative guitar techniques and profound musicality, has formed a new band dedicated to honoring the Grateful Dead’s legacy. Dubbed Stanley Plays The Dead, this four-piece ensemble celebrates the enduring influence of Jerry Garcia and the Grateful Dead on generations of music lovers. Jordan, a long-time admirer of Garcia’s work, has infused his deep appreciation into this unique project, creating a bridge between jazz and rock that fans of both genres will cherish.
A Career of Genius
Jordan’s illustrious career is marked by his four Grammy nominations and numerous accolades. His most recent album, “Friends,” earned a nomination for an NAACP Image Award, further solidifying his status as a musical innovator. Los Angeles Times jazz critic Leonard Feather has praised Jordan, noting, “Genius is a word often tossed around in musical circles, but it has been rightfully applied to Stanley Jordan.”
Born in Chicago and raised in the San Francisco Bay Area, Jordan began his musical journey at the age of six with the piano before shifting his focus to the guitar at eleven. His early years saw him performing with rock and soul bands, and in 1976, while still in high school, he played with Quincy Jones and tied for first place as a soloist at the Reno International Jazz Festival.
Jordan’s academic and musical pursuits continued at Princeton University, where he earned a BA in music in 1981. Under the tutelage of composer Milton Babbitt and computer music pioneer Paul Lansky, Jordan honed his skills in theory and composition. During his time at Princeton, he also performed with jazz legends Benny Carter and Dizzy Gillespie, setting the stage for a remarkable career.
An Intimate Evening of Jazz and Rock
Don’t miss the chance to experience Stanley Jordan in this intimate setting at Hamilton Stage. The performance promises to be a masterful blend of Jordan’s virtuosic guitar work and the beloved melodies of the Grateful Dead. The evening will offer a unique opportunity to witness the fusion of jazz improvisation with the iconic sounds of one of rock’s most influential bands.
Event Details:
- Date: June 1, 2024
- Location: Hamilton Stage, UCPAC
- Time: Shows at 7PM & 930PM
Come early and enjoy a cocktail at the WBGO Piano Lounge, starting at 5 PM, setting the perfect mood for an evening of exceptional music. This event is not just a concert but a celebration of the enduring legacy of the Grateful Dead, brought to life through the genius of Stanley Jordan.
And, tune in tonight at dead Set Live for the Tribute Radio Show.