On New Year’s Day in 1918, James Reese Europe—an iconic figure in the evolution of African American music—landed in France with the 93rd Division’s 369th Infantry Regiment from New York, commonly referred to as “The Harlem Hellfighters.” As well as their achievements in combat, Europe’s military ensemble popularized the new spirit of jazz to a war-torn French nation fascinated with Black culture. Jason Moran’s acclaimed meditation on the life and legacy of Europe tells an extraordinary story of the development of jazz, African American culture, and the role of music in relation to racism and prejudice. 

Available through May 31, 2021.