Leimert Park buzzed with excitement on Saturday, September 7, as the community gathered to celebrate the legacy of the legendary jazz and blues singer Barbara Morrison. The 2nd Annual Barbara Morrison Jazz & Blues Festival filled the air with soulful music, the streets dancing, and the crowd with memories as a mix of renowned and local artists honored Morrison’s remarkable contribution to the music world.
The California Jazz & Blues Museum organized the event as a tribute to Morrison and a broader celebration of the deep roots of jazz and blues in Los Angeles. The festival, held at the intersection of 43rd Street and Degnan Boulevard aka Barbara Morrison Square, also marked a significant moment for the neighborhood, as many local jazz legends were honored by the office of Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass.
Morrison, an influential figure in the L.A. jazz and blues communities, passed away in March 2022. Aside from her performing career, Morrison taught voice lessons at UCLA for nearly three decades and was an adjunct associate professor of global jazz studies in the School of Music. Furthermore, a scholarship has been established in her name at the prestigious university.
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Even more hyper-local, she left behind a legacy of musical excellence and cultural advocacy, having founded the Barbara Morrison Performing Arts Center and the California Jazz & Blues Museum in Leimert Park.
The festival, now in its second year, has rapidly become an annual tradition that commemorates Morrison’s memory. Morrison’s goal of nurturing young musicians and promoting a sense of community through the arts was apparent in every aspect of the festival.
The day’s festivities began at noon, with families and music enthusiasts gathering in the park. They enjoyed not only the music but also the food from street vendors and children’s activities, creating a family-friendly atmosphere.
Many attendees were excited to witness performances from a star-studded lineup of musicians, including some of Morrison’s closest friends and collaborators.
“Barbara Morrison was a pivotal part of our community. She’s done so much for the jazz and blues community,” said Dara Caldwell-Ross, of the KAOS Network, a long-time media production company in Leimert Park.
Attendees, such as long-time resident Andine Lewis, stated that the event, although still new, is part of ongoing efforts to uplift the community.
“I have lived in Leimert Park since I was six years old. We have a lot of good things happening here. All these events are important to sustain our culture,” said Lewis, a 25-year resident of the area.
