José James is an object lesson in creativity. From childhood, he was a musical omnivore, devouring new jazz, alternative rock and hip-hop alike in a period in which the record industry was still blooming. As a student of New York's New School, he had the chance to learn from and gain experience at the side of jazz legends including McCoy Tyner and Wynton Marsalis, and to pay homage to John Coltrane, Marvin Gaye and Billie Holiday. Simultaneously, he was constantly searching for his own means of expression that would expand existing stylistic boundaries and match the prevailing mood of the time. Believing that rhythm is the force underpinning every kind of music, he has a close affinity with hip-hop, soul and R'n'B. All these styles feature in his records and concerts, while he never strays far from jazz; every one of his albums and performances, thanks to a strikingly magnetic personality and unique approach as a performer, has a coherent impact despite these eclectic influences. At this concert, he presents his take on the latest vocal styles accompanied by four no less audacious musical partners, among them acoustic and electric bassist Solomon Dorsey, who doubles as musical director.

Presented by: Müpa Budapest