John Hilderbrand
-
30 Years of ContemporaryJazz.com!
.
I launched this site, ContemporaryJazz.com, on January 13, 1996. Hard to believe it’s been 30 years! I had, and still have, a love of technology, a love of communicating and sharing, and a love of the music. I was born to do something like this—the medium just didn’t exist until the World Wide Web started…
-
Happy Birthday, Captain Fingers! Celebrating Lee Ritenour
.
Today, January 11th, ContemporaryJazz.com celebrates the birthday of one of contemporary jazz’s most enduring guitar voices: Lee Ritenour. Known affectionately as “Captain Fingers” by peers and fans alike, Ritenour has spent decades defining the sound of contemporary jazz and fusion. A Destiny with the Strings Born in Hollywood in 1952, Lee felt a “natural attraction…
-
Pat Metheny Launches Uniquity Music and Announces Side-Eye III+
.
After more than five decades of recording, touring, and redefining what modern jazz guitar can be, Pat Metheny has made one of the most significant moves of his career. In early 2026, Metheny announced the launch of his Uniquity Music, a new artist-owned record label created to house his past catalog, current work, and all…
-
New Holiday Jazz Roundup 2025
.
Christmas is a favorite time of the year for many, and it’s always exciting to hear new recordings that bring fresh spirit to the season. This roundup of recently released jazz highlights several releases that offer everything from reflective takes on sacred music to lively reinterpretations of holiday favorites. Lakecia Benjamin – “The Christmas Song”…
-
Thanksgiving Week Listening: A Couple of Contemporary Jazz Favorites
.
Gratitude is something I stay mindful of all year long (it’s great for mental health), but Thanksgiving week gives it a little extra boost. I’m thankful for my kids, now grown and living their own lives. I’m thankful for the ability to shape my life in small, meaningful ways. There is a lot to appreciate….