Topline:
The Central Avenue Jazz Festival celebrates its 30th anniversary Saturday, with Grammy-winning Latin jazz legend Poncho Sanchez headlining alongside Gregory Porter and Jazzmeia Horn.
Why it matters: The festival honors Central Avenue's pivotal role in jazz history while bridging communities through music. Sanchez, who was raised in Los Angeles, says the neighborhood's legacy remains vital. "It's very important for the folks to know about Central Avenue jazz and the important role it took in the upbringing of jazz and even Latin jazz,” Sanchez said.
Why now: The 30th anniversary comes as the largely Latino neighborhood continues Central Avenue's musical tradition. Sanchez sees his performance as creating "a bridge between even Latin people and blacks, which is great because that's what Latin jazz is all about."
The backstory: In the 1940s and '50s, Central Avenue was home to the Dunbar Hotel — about the only place in L.A. where Black entertainers could stay — along with legendary venues like the Barrel House and Club Alabam. Jazz greats like Duke Ellington, Billie Holiday and Louis Armstrong all performed on these streets.
How to go
- Where: Central Avenue between Martin Luther King, Jr. Boulevard and Vernon Avenue.
- When: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 20
- Cost: Free to attend
What to watch for: Sanchez performs at 4 p.m. on the Roy Ayers stage, promising his signature mix of Latin jazz, Latin soul (including James Brown adaptations) and authentic salsa music. The free festival also features four themed pavilions, art exhibits, healthcare screenings and family activities.
Go deeper: Listen to the full interview on Sanchez, and a little of his music, with LAist’s Morning Edition host Austin Cross.