The iconic Sun Ra Arkestra under the direction of Knoel Scott performs the Sun Ra composition “Carefree” during their performance on August 1, 2025, part of Summer at SFJAZZ.

Watch many other performances on SFJAZZ At Home: https://www.SFJAZZ.org/AtHome

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About this concert:

Step into the outer realms of sound with the legendary Sun Ra Arkestra, one of the most visionary and electrifying ensembles in jazz history. The group is now led on tour by saxophonist Knoel Scott, who has been an intrinsic part of the band for 46 years. The Arkestra continues the interstellar mission of its founder, Sun Ra — blending big band swing, free jazz, cosmic philosophy, and Afro-futurist pageantry into a transcendent live experience.

Born Herman “Sonny” Blount, the enigmatic composer and keyboardist known as Sun Ra created an entire universe of expression through his pioneering Afrofuturist concepts in music and philosophy. He integrated Ellington-influenced big band swing with free jazz, the blues, electronics, and African musical traditions while establishing a singular visual style.

One of the most prolific recording artists of all time, he and the Arkestra released over a hundred full-length albums and innumerable singles that have become some of the most collectible jazz records in existence. The Arkestra appeared on Saturday Night Live and was named Best Big Band in DownBeat’s Critics Poll five times.

Since Sun Ra’s death in 1993, the Arkestra has continued to record and perform under the direction of saxophonists Marshall Allen and Knoel Scott.

Sun Ra claimed to have come from the planet Saturn to bring peace to Earth, and his legacy, the Arkestra, continues this mission – needed now more than ever.

PERSONNEL:

Knoel Scott: baritone saxophone
Michael Ray: trumpet, vocals
Fred Adams: trumpet
Cecil Brooks: trumpet
Chris Hemingway: alto saxophone, soprano saxophone
James Stewart: tenor saxophone, flute
Anthony Nelson: baritone saxophone
Dave Davis: trombone
Robert Stringer: trombone
Vincent Chancey: French horn
Kash Killion: cello
Farid Abdulbari Barron: piano
D. Hotep: guitar
Tyler Mitchell: bass
George Grey: drums
Elson Nasciment:o surdo, percussion
Jorge Silva: repenique, percussion
Tara Middleton: vocals, percussion