Tenor saxophonist Javon Jackson pays tribute to one of America’s greatest songwriters with the spirited Jackson Plays Dylan, out March 27, 2026, via Solid Jackson Records in collaboration with Palmetto Records. Featuring Grammy-winning vocalist Lisa Fischer and Nicole Zuraitis, the album explores over three decades of Bob Dylan’s iconic songs, transforming folk anthems, protest classics, and love songs into a dynamic jazz conversation.
Jackson, who recently completed two acclaimed collaborations with the late poet and activist Nikki Giovanni, brings both musical virtuosity and personal insight to the project. “I have a deep respect for Bob Dylan’s musicianship and his commitment to the craft,” Jackson says. “I’m a fan.” Guided by Dylan’s blend of poetic sophistication, social conscience, and vulnerability, Jackson infuses the songs with fresh interpretation while honoring their original spirit.
Recorded with pianist/keyboardist Jeremy Manasia, bassist Isaac Levine, drummer Ryan Sands, and featuring Fischer and Zuraitis on vocals, Jackson Plays Dylan opens with the groove-fueled tribute “One for Bob Dylan” and moves through classics including Blowin’ in the Wind, The Times They Are A-Changin’, Hurricane, Gotta Serve Somebody, Lay, Lady, Lay, and Make You Feel My Love. Fischer delivers powerhouse vocals on “Gotta Serve Somebody,” while Zuraitis lends a wistful elegance to Forever Young.
Jackson transforms landmark songs such as Tombstone Blues and Like a Rolling Stone with Coltranesque modal revisions and gospel-infused energy, while his swinging take on Mr. Tambourine Man evokes mentorship, humility, and growth—echoing his own experiences with jazz greats Art Blakey, Elvin Jones, and Freddie Hubbard.
Missouri-born and Berklee-educated, Javon Jackson joined Art Blakey’s Jazz Messengers in 1986 and went on to an acclaimed career as a recording artist and bandleader, including multiple Blue Note albums and his own Solid Jackson Records imprint. Jackson Plays Dylan continues his legacy of innovation, bridging jazz storytelling and transformative interpretation while celebrating one of America’s most influential songwriters.
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