Gerald Clayton – “White Cities,” A Musical Tribute to Charles White

Illustrious jazz pianist, composer, and 6-time GRAMMY nominee Gerald Clayton searches for honest expression in every note. From his acclaimed debut to his leadership at the Monterey Jazz Festival On Tour, Clayton’s work reflects a commitment to artistic exploration. Rooted in the legacy of his father, bass player John Clayton, Gerald honors his musical ancestors while pushing boundaries. Clayton has performed and recorded side-by-side with distinctive artists like Diana Krall, Roy Hargrove, Dianne Reeves, Terence Blanchard, Ben Wendel, and saxophone legend Charles Lloyd.

Through his original jazz masterwork, “White Cities,” Clayton honors the legacy of American painter and muralist Charles White and draws attention to the racism and oppression Black people experience in major cities. This remarkable performance incorporates Charles White’s mural, “5 Great American Negroes,” with a unique melody for each figure, reflecting his own artistic journey and personal growth.

White Cities is co-presented by UChicago Presents, the Reva and David Logan Center for the Arts, the South Side Community Art Center and the Hyde Park Jazz Festival. Supported by the Logan Center Jazz Forever Fund, a gift of the Revada Foundation, and the Robert S. Guttman Family Charitable Fund. Presented in partnership with Chicago Jazz Magazine, DownBeat, Jazz Institute of Chicago, and WDCB 90.9 FM.