The Jazz Bridge Project

Overview

The Jazz Bridge Project Minneapolis

The premise of the Jazz Bridge Project, started by the father and son team of guitarist, Roger Johnson, and flautist, Rajiah Johnson, is to provide playing opportunities for a variety of musicians, which

incorporates the bridging of various jazz talents known locally and nationally.

A native of Upstate New York, guitarist, Roger Johnson grew up hearing great organists from

Jack McDuff to Jimmy Smith. Despite the great Guitar players of the era – Grant Green, Kenny Burrell, Pat Martino, and West Montgomery – Roger was heavily influenced by John Coltrane and the 1960’s modal players.

Son, Rajiah Johnson (flute) has performed with the late saxophonist, Steve Lacy and late organist, Jack McDuff and recorded with hip-hop band, Atmosphere and Keston and Westdal, among others. Also a woodwind repair technician, Rajiah studied at the University of Connecticut, Concordia and Minnesota State Technical College. While living and playing in Connecticut, Roger and Rajiah experienced crossing paths, sitting in with upcoming jazz musicians from Vincent Herring, Nat Reeves, Carl Allen and others.

Joining the Jazz Bridge Project for a Friday, October 4, 2024 Jazz Gig at the Metronome Brewery is

Abebi Stafford (Keyboard) and Kenne Thomas (Drums). Both musicians are locally known prolific jazz artist with exceptional Jazz credentials respectively. Abebi’s work can be heard on Apple Music, Spotify.

Kenne Thomas has extensive music credentials. Drummer, composer and author, Kenne Thomas is the son of Chicago’s bebop saxophonist, Jimmy “Bouncy” Whitehead. Kenne began his musical career in his hometown of Chicago, performing for notable musicians, Jodie Christian, Ari Brown, Adam Rudolph the Charles Walton big Band, and the Black Artist Group. Kenne has performed in Japan, Minnesota and venues throughout the country.

The Jazz Bridge Projects’ Facebook page features Athelene Johnson waiting on the Hennepin Avenue Bridge Minneapolis.