Jazz Influencers Magazine – Issue 1 (April 2025)
by KL Publishing Group

The sound of now. The voices of tomorrow.

Welcome to the premiere issue of Jazz Influencers, a bold new print magazine spotlighting the artists, icons, and innovators shaping the future of jazz—on stage, online, and far beyond tradition. This debut edition features genre-defying keyboardist and guitarist Dan Farrow as the cover story, tracing his journey from Zurich to the Grammy stage.

Inside, we honor the life and legacy of Roy Ayers in a soulful visual tribute, revisit Art Blakey’s lasting influence, and spotlight a powerful live performance by Ron Carter’s Foursight Quartet at the Catalina Jazz Club. Our Grammy section celebrates excellence across jazz categories, with nods to Chick Corea, Zaccai Curtis, and Samara Joy. We also explore the rise of digital jazz influencers like Jihye Lee, Charles Cornell, Laufey, and Emmet Cohen, who are redefining how jazz reaches audiences today.

For working musicians, there’s real-world guidance: from our DIY Touring Guide featuring quotes from Diana Krall and Esperanza Spalding, to the Jazz Cat’s Gear Guide—a must-read for improvisers navigating tone, mics, and must-have tools.

Other highlights include:

• A groundbreaking feature on AI’s role in modern jazz

• Bunny Brunel’s new column Low End Logic, offering decades of bass wisdom

• Stage fashion tips for women and men in Styled to Play, curated by editor-in-chief Kaylene Peoples

• A behind-the-scenes look at the Daru Jones x Snow Milk signature drum kit collaboration

While select articles may appear online, reading the print edition is highly recommended. Each issue is a visual and editorial experience—curated, collectible, and designed as a lasting keepsake. This is a signature of KL Publishing Group’s premium magazine line.

Whether you’re a jazz musician, student, educator, or passionate fan, Jazz Influencers offers an inside look at where the music is headed—and who’s leading the charge.