Jazz at the Center: A Powerful Juneteenth Tribute Through West African Sound

PerformanceLegacy

Jul 10

On a warm June night, the Jazz at the Center series lit up the stage with Blue Bergamot – A Juneteenth Celebration, presented by the Indianapolis Jazz Foundation, Indy Jazz Fest, and curated by the ever-visionary Richard “Sleepy” Floyd. The evening honored the legacy of West African musical giants like Fela Kuti and Manu Dibango, whose influence continues to shape generations of artists across the globe.

From the very first beat, it was clear the audience was in for a deeply rhythmic, soul-shaking experience. Sleepy Floyd, known not only for his masterful drumming but also for his work as a composer, producer, and community leader, assembled an electrifying ensemble for this one-of-a-kind performance.

The lineup featured some of Indianapolis’ most respected musicians:

Rob Dixon on tenor sax
Brandon Meeks on bass
Brandon Douthitt on bari & alto sax
Cassius Goens III on percussion
Steven Jones on keys

With rhythms rooted in Afrobeat and grooves that touched on jazz, funk, and hip-hop, the setlist echoed the rich cultural threads of the African diaspora while also sounding distinctly contemporary and local. Floyd’s artistry—deeply steeped in Indianapolis’ musical traditions yet constantly pushing creative boundaries—made him the ideal leader for this tribute.

Beyond the music, the evening served as a reminder of Juneteenth’s significance—freedom, resilience, and cultural pride—channeled through the pulse of drums and horns. Floyd’s role extended far beyond the kit; as executive director of the Inspire Music Collective, he has become a champion for Indianapolis musicians, creating pathways for sustainability, equity, and growth in the arts.

Blue Bergamot was more than a performance, it was a celebration of heritage, community, and the power of sound to move, educate, and unite.