Join renowned historian Robin D. G. Kelley for a enriching centennial panel celebrating the profound legacies of both Miles Davis and John Coltrane. Blending live and curated musical selections with insightful conversation, this event explores how two of jazz’s most transformative figures have shaped modern music and influenced the direction of culture.
Guided by Kelley’s deep expertise in jazz history and Black cultural expression, and fueled by jazz’s brightest lights, as well as family, the panel will illuminate the creative forces that shaped Davis and Coltrane’s groundbreaking work—offering audiences a soulful listening experience embedded in rich historical perspective.
Featured Panelists and Moderator:
Robin D. G. Kelley
Robin D. G. Kelley is an acclaimed American historian, writer, and cultural critic whose work explores the intersections of race, class, politics, and culture. He is a distinguished professor of History and African American Studies at University of California, Los Angeles Kelley is widely known for his groundbreaking scholarship on Black intellectual history, social movements, and music, particularly jazz.
LeRoy Downs
LeRoy Downs is a Los Angeles–based jazz radio host, producer, and arts advocate. Perhaps best known for his work on KJazz 88.1, he has been a vital voice in championing jazz and its artists across Southern California. In addition to broadcasting, he produces concerts and cultural programs that highlight the richness and diversity of the LA jazz community.
Vince Wilburn Jr.
Vince Wilburn Jr. is a drummer, composer, and producer from a distinguished jazz lineage. Perhaps best known for performing with his uncle, Miles Davis, during the trumpeter’s 1980s resurgence, he has built a multifaceted career across performance and production. He remains actively involved in curating and producing projects that preserve and extend the legacy of Miles Davis.
Michelle Coltrane
Michelle Coltrane is a member of the Coltrane family and the stepdaughter of John Coltrane. She is connected to ongoing efforts that preserve and honor the Coltrane musical and spiritual legacy. Her presence reflects the enduring cultural influence of a family whose contributions continue to shape the sound and philosophy of jazz.
Stanley Clarke
Stanley Clarke is a bassist, composer, and bandleader from Philadelphia. Perhaps best known as a founding member of Return to Forever with Chick Corea, he played a central role in shaping the sound of jazz fusion. A multi–Grammy Award winner, Clarke continues to be a major force in jazz, film scoring, and contemporary music.
Emilio Modeste
Emilio Modeste is a saxophonist and composer from New York City. Perhaps best known for his time performing with the late trumpet great Wallace Roney, he is currently touring with the bands of Stanley Clarke, Cindy Blackman Santana, and Kassa Overall. Equally adept on tenor and soprano saxophone, Modeste’s distinctive tone and melodic voice can be heard on recent recordings by Steve Turre and Dezron Douglas, as well as on upcoming projects.
Brandon Rose
Brandon Rose is a multifaceted bassist, producer, and songwriter from Detroit whose music blends jazz, gospel, R&B, funk, hip-hop, and pop with authenticity and soul. A two-time Michigan State University Jazz Studies graduate mentored by Stanley Clarke, Marcus Miller, and Rodney Whitaker, he is a masterful doubler on upright and electric bass having performed and worked with artists including Ledisi, José James, Julius Rodriguez, The Baylor Project, Jon Batiste and more. Rooted in faith, his work is driven by a desire to uplift, inspire, and create music that connects people to something deeper.
