Detroit's Jazz Legacy Shines in New Documentary

Jazz, born from the Black community in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, found a vibrant home in Detroit during the Great Migration. The city's rich musical heritage is now celebrated in the documentary The Best of the Best: Jazz from Detroit. This film delves into Detroit's significant contributions to jazz, highlighting the city's dynamic rise and the resilience of its African American community. Featuring legends like Elvin Jones, Yusef Lateef, and Ron Carter, as well as contemporary stars such as Regina Carter and Kenny Garrett, the documentary underscores the mentorship tradition that has nurtured Detroit jazz since the 1950s. Directed by Daniel Loewenthal and co-produced by Mark Stryker, the film is inspired by Stryker's 2019 book, Jazz from Detroit. The Best of the Best: Jazz from Detroit premiered at the 2024 Freep Film Festival and is now available for streaming on Prime Video. For those interested in experiencing Detroit's jazz legacy firsthand, upcoming screenings are scheduled at venues like The Alluvion in Traverse City, Michigan, on February 7, 2026. These events often include panel discussions with the filmmakers, offering deeper insights into the city's jazz history. As Detroit continues to honor its musical roots, The Best of the Best: Jazz from Detroit serves as a poignant reminder of the city's enduring impact on the world of jazz.