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. This special performance was created in honor of Juneteenth—commemorating the emancipation of enslaved African Americans—and paid musical tribute to the legacy of West African giants like Fela Kuti and Manu Dibango, whose revolutionary sounds and messages of liberation continue to inspire generations worldwide.

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 of musicians whose talents reflect the rich musical fabric of Indianapolis.

The lineup featured some of the city’s most respected players:

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

With rhythms rooted in Afrobeat and grooves that touched on jazz, funk, and hip-hop, the setlist echoed the cultural threads of the African diaspora while sounding distinctly contemporary and local. It was a sonic journey through resilience, struggle, and joy—core elements of the Juneteenth narrative. Floyd’s artistry—deeply steeped in Indianapolis’ musical traditions yet constantly pushing creative boundaries—made him the ideal leader for this tribute.

More than just a performance, Blue Bergamot was a celebration of freedom and heritage, channeling Juneteenth’s spirit through the pulse of drums, horns, and movement. As the executive director of the Inspire Music Collective, Floyd’s impact extended beyond the stage; he continues to uplift Indianapolis artists through education, mentorship, and economic empowerment—values deeply aligned with the meaning of the holiday.

In every way, Blue Bergamot embodied the essence of Juneteenth: honoring the past, celebrating the present, and shaping a more equitable future through music and community.