10/03/05
Story by Peggy Graham
Fall Jazz Series Concludes with Legendary Alaadeen and group 21
OVERLAND PARK, Kan. – Alaadeen is one of the most significant musicians actively working in the field of American jazz music today. A native of Kansas City, Alaadeen began performing professional jobs as a teenager and continues creating vibrant jazz music into his sixth decade.
Alaadeen and group 21 play the final fall Jazz Series performance at noon Tuesday, Nov. 1, in the Recital Hall of the Carlsen Center, Johnson County Community. Group 21 is Chris Clarke, piano; Seth Lee, double bass; and Donivan Bailey, drum set.
Alaadeen, performer, composer and educator, is the recipient of awards from the U.S. Congress, Billboard and numerous other entities for his impact on the history, development and performance of jazz. He has performed on saxophone with so many of the great names in music starting with jazz-and-blues legends Billie Holiday, Miles Davis, Jay McShann, Ella Fitzgerald, Count Basie Orchestra, Duke Ellington Orchestra, Eddie “Cleanhead” Vinson and Sam Cooke.
Alaadeen has played with various Motown stars like Gladys Knight, Smokey Robinson, The Temptations, as well as his own jazz contemporaries – T. S. Monk, George Duke, Bobby Watson, Oleta Adams, Manhattan Transfer and Patti Austin. He has three critically acclaimed CDs, including his latest New Africa Suite.
Admission is free and open to the public. Seating is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis. For more information, call 913-469-8500, ex. 3605.