In this episode of Rooted, we ask what it really means to make jazz now. From Boston jazz clubs and basement jam sessions to TikTok lives and global stages, Grammy-nominated saxophonist Godwin Louis breaks down how jazz continues to evolve across generations, cultures, and continents.

We explore jazz’s deep roots in Black American history, its ties to the African diaspora, and why America so often waits decades to celebrate Black innovation. If jazz was born from resistance, community, and improvisation—what does that look like in 2026?

Rooted is brought to you by our sponsor, Britebound—helping middle and high school students to explore their passions, try out career paths, and make confident decisions about their future. To learn more, visit https://bit.ly/britebound 

 

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Rooted

GBH News Rooted Staff (GBH News)

Why does America celebrate Black music 50 years late?

APR 8, 202626 MIN
Rooted

Why does America celebrate Black music 50 years late?

APR 8, 202626 MIN

Description

In this episode of Rooted, we ask what it really means to make jazz now. From Boston jazz clubs and basement jam sessions to TikTok lives and global stages, Grammy-nominated saxophonist Godwin Louis breaks down how jazz continues to evolve across generations, cultures, and continents.We explore jazz’s deep roots in Black American history, its ties to the African diaspora, and why America so often waits decades to celebrate Black innovation. If jazz was born from resistance, community, and improvisation—what does that look like in 2026?Rooted is brought to you by our sponsor, Britebound—helping middle and high school students to explore their passions, try out career paths, and make confident decisions about their future. To learn more, visit https://bit.ly/britebound  Subscribe to the Rooted YouTube channel:    •GBH News Rooted  Follow Rooted on InstagramListen to Rooted on SpotifyFollow Rooted on ThreadsFollow Rooted on TikTokSubscribe to the Rooted newsletter Support GBH and help shape a future where facts matter, stories unite us, and everyone has access to quality media. Join us. Fund the Future: https://bit.ly/FundtheFutureYT