UPDATE: Chief Xian aTunde Adjuah is set to electrify audiences at the Blue Note Jazz Club in Los Angeles with a groundbreaking celebration from September 22-24, 2023. This series of performances marks the 10th anniversary of his innovative “Stretch Music,” poised to redefine jazz on the West Coast.
Adjuah, a six-time Grammy-nominated trumpeter and composer, describes this moment as a powerful blend of homecoming and a launchpad into the future. “These shows are about celebrating the 10th anniversary of Stretch Music while also premiering new works,” he stated. His excitement is palpable as he prepares to captivate audiences with his unique sound and vision.
The performances will not only showcase Adjuah’s trumpet skills but also feature his custom-designed instruments: the Oduwa trumpet, the Siren trumpet, and the electric Adjuah Bow. Each instrument is crafted to empower young musicians from marginalized communities, breaking traditional barriers in music. “I wanted to create instruments that allowed freedom,” Adjuah explained, emphasizing the need for innovative tools in modern music education.
Adjuah’s “Stretch Music” is a revolutionary concept that transcends traditional jazz boundaries, merging various genres and cultural influences. His performances promise to be a dynamic experience that engages audiences in a dialogue between ancestral memory and contemporary rhythms.
This celebration aligns with the venue’s mission to be a cultural cornerstone for jazz, following its grand opening with Robert Glasper’s sold-out performances. The Blue Note aims to foster a vibrant jazz community, and Adjuah’s shows are expected to elevate this vision.
Beyond the anniversary celebration, Adjuah is not slowing down. He recently released a new single, “Take Off Your Cool,” featuring Glasper, which debuted on September 12, 2023. His next full-length album, scheduled for release on September 19, 2023, is set to add to the excitement surrounding his upcoming shows.
Adjuah’s artistic journey is deeply influenced by his New Orleans heritage and experiences with music legends like Prince and McCoy Tyner. His commitment to personal and cultural liberation is reflected in his decision to change his name, shedding what he calls “oppressive naming practices.” This choice resonates with many of his fans, sparking conversations about identity and artistic ownership.
As fans eagerly anticipate the shows at Blue Note LA, Adjuah encapsulates this thrilling chapter with a simple yet powerful sentiment: “All fire. The grand all fires of all of the myths and legends, where everyone is invited.”
With a rich legacy of collaboration and mentorship, Chief Adjuah is set to inspire the next generation of musicians while delivering an unforgettable experience to jazz enthusiasts. Don’t miss your chance to witness this landmark celebration.
