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The stereotypical image of jazz as an exclusive, elitist genre doesn't fit multi-instrumentalist Brian Jackson, who has rooted his vibrant take on jazz in its true, diverse essence. Since the 1970s, Jackson has demonstrated that the finest jazz transcends narrow, exclusionary definitions.
Jackson's approach honors jazz's origins, allowing him to continuously reinvent himself within a socially conscious and emancipatory context. To the delight of his Moroccan fans, he performed for the first time in Morocco during the 19th Jazzablanca festival, held from July 2 to 11, 2026.
Alongside his compatriot José James, Jackson headlined the festival's opening weekend on Stage 21 at Anfa Park, underscoring jazz's power to meld with modern music. Despite already having a strong following in Morocco due to his works promoting universal values, this concert marked a significant moment for Jackson. José James shares this commitment to creativity steeped in tradition.
José James at Jazzablanca 2026 / Photo: Ilham Fouwad Photography
Jazz: The Art of Improvisation
A civil rights advocate, Jackson expressed his excitement to Yabiladi about performing in Morocco, a country he rarely visited before. «After my debut in South Africa, meeting the Moroccan audience and sharing this moment — especially on a day when the national team clinched a World Cup victory — is a joy!» he exclaimed, celebrating the Atlas Lions' 3-0 win over Canada.
«Connecting with the audience during such a joyful time is special,» Jackson said, clearly impressed by Morocco's performance. «I hope this is just the start of more concerts in Africa.» The setting perfectly complemented Jackson's warm, inclusive jazz.
Jazz's historical ties to slavery, freedom messages, and protest songs make it more relevant today than ever. «Wherever we are, we fight the same fight. We all, knowingly or unknowingly, play a part because oppression dehumanizes everyone involved,» he reflected, quoting James Baldwin.
«My message remains: unite against those who dehumanize us. This is the essence of our art. Decades later, it still resonates.»
Steering clear of clichés, Jackson infuses his jazz with soul, R&B, and hip-hop. This visionary approach shaped his reinterpretation of classics by Gil Scott-Heron, a rap pioneer known for blending jazz, blues, and soul with rhythmic, politically charged spoken word.
Reflecting on his project, «Now More Than Ever», released in May 2026, Jackson shared, «I’ve always wanted to collaborate with those I respect, like Raheem Devaughn and DJs Kenny Dope and Rich Medina. I achieved my dream with this 19-track project, featuring talents like Lisa Fischer and Black Thought.»
Music as a Force Against Injustice
Celebrated since 1974 for «Winter in America» with Scott-Heron, Jackson believes rich, varied collaborations enhance jazz's essence: a symbol of free, timeless creativity welcoming all audiences.
«Many view jazz as a niche for the cultured. Yet, its true purpose is to unite beyond race, class, and gender. Jazz has always been a rebellious force, continuing since bebop’s rise in the 1940s and 1950s. I plan to uphold this tradition as long as necessary.»
With jazz rooted in African traditions, much like Morocco's Gnawa music, Jackson appreciates musical explorations that celebrate shared legacies. «The African diaspora’s music, from North to West Africa and beyond, inspires and influences our Western creations,» he said. «Being in Morocco is truly significant for me,» he concluded.
Brian Jackson at Jazzablanca 2026
