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According to credible sources, believe it or not, there appears to be a movement, primarily limited to some parts of Europe, dis-acknowledging the beginnings and development of Jazz within the African American community. As Richard Pryor said, "Swear fo' God!!". I see Duke, Art, Horace, McCoy and others shaking their heads. Jazz grew out of the African American experience. It has developed with the contributions of people from around the world.We have always welcomed all cultures to participate and create. And we are happy to share our creativity with all. But NO ONE should be able to take credit for creating something that was never theirs to begin with. Sorry, but it's our ball. You can't have it.

JAZZ: an African-American Creation, a Universal Connection. We have CD's to sell, music videos and photos of Chicago's finest performers, CD Giveaways, lyrics on request, calendar updates, short downloads, links to CD BABY, Rhapsody , etc., and more! Share your thoughts on any subject, scatter-chat with like-minded friends, and enjoy McCLERKIN'S HOUSE OF JAZZ!

Congratulations to fellow Chicagoan Herbie Hancock for winning best Album of the Year at the Grammy Awards. It's unbelievable one of the most important contributions of African Americans to the world of music, namely Jazz, has received so little recognition over the years with Grammy voters. Perhaps, NOW is the time,

Many newsworthy items in the last 6 weeks. Oscar Peterson, a mentor and great jazz pianist died in December. Will Smith's movie, "I am Legend" has grossed over 100 million. Denzel Washington reminds us: To Debate is to Educate. Presidential Candidate Barack Obama makes history daily. Herbie Hancock, my neighbor from Chicago's 45th St. won a Grammy for Best Album of 2008. Thanks to Herbie, Jazz will once again be included and accepted by mainstream america. But when you combine these items, isn't there a greater grand and glorious reality, namely the Potential Influence of African American Men? Listen to the Talking Drums. THEY will tell the story.

As a full time musician, occasional writer and part time teacher, I decided to do some research on three of my favorite subjects: African American writers, science fiction, and jazz. My results have both surprised and inspired me. Explore the connections between these seemingly unconnected parts of the African American community.

"WAR is PEACE
FREEDOM is SLAVERY
IGNORANCE is STRENGTH"
George Orwell
1984 or.....?

"The FUTURE belongs to those who prepare for it TODAY" MALCOLM X

WinCor Record's Island of Dreams, The Power of One, and Searchin' for the Soul are available on RHAPSODY, APPLE iTUNES, + many others. Do it Today!!

A Serious Soul Shout to Gilles Peterson, Patrick Forge, and Ethan Records for including my 1983 title song Searchin' for the Soul as part of their 2006 release, DINGWALLS. To be associated with some of the world's greatest soul and jazz performers is an honor I will sincerely cherish.