Tony Hightower at the Jazz 101 Worshops Stage Sponsored by EBONY
The 49th Annual Atlanta Jazz Festival completely transformed Piedmont Park over Memorial Day weekend, drawing thousands of music lovers into the heart of the city. While the main stage delivered explosive performances from heavy hitters, a quieter but profoundly impactful movement was happening nearby.
The Jazz 101 stage, dynamically sponsored by EBONY, stood out as a premier destination for true cultural connection. This specific activation went far beyond standard festival entertainment by serving as an educational hub.
The Vision Behind the EBONY Jazz 101 Stage
The Jazz 101 stage was explicitly built to bridge the gap between historic jazz tradition and modern community expression. Instead of just focusing on standard performances, the curated workshops tackled deep social themes.
One of the standout events was the “Soul Care: Music & Pets Fuel the Soul” panel, presented in tandem with EBONY, the Atlanta Humane Society, Purina, and Petfinder. This session explored emotional wellness, trust building, and representation within the creative community. By bringing a media giant like EBONY into an intimate, educational tent at Piedmont Park, the festival elevated the conversation from basic musical appreciation to holistic cultural preservation.
Jermaine Sain Speaks with Tony Hightower: Bridging Generations and Genres
Tony Hightower, affectionately known as “The Jazz Whisperer,” is the perfect voice to articulate the power of this stage. As an Atlanta native and the son of the late legendary jazz and blues diva Theresa Hightower, Tony has deep roots in the local scene. Mentored by the iconic Freddy Cole, Tony has successfully transitioned from his early days in R&B and Hip Hop (working with legends like Organized Noize and OutKast) into becoming a premier guardian of traditional jazz vocals.