What’s Behind the Racial Uproar at WGBO?
WBGO seems to be distancing itself from the community that built it. There have been repercussions.
By Tammy La Gorce
- Published Jan. 29, 2020Updated Jan. 30, 2020
For almost 40 years, Dorthaan Kirk, the widow of the great jazz saxophonist Rahsaan Roland Kirk, was a fixture at WBGO, Newark’s public jazz station.
Considered the city’s “first lady of jazz,” Ms. Kirk organized jazz brunches and persuaded famous musicians like Regina Carter to perform at children’s concerts. Her parties at the station celebrating the art exhibitions she curated, like one featuring vintage boomboxes, were always open to the public.
In 2018, Ms. Kirk retired, just shy of her 80th birthday.
Things at WBGO quickly changed after that. The station ended the exhibitions and the parties. Then management stopped allowing the public into the building, citing security concerns. The community, it seemed, was no longer welcome at the station it helped to create.
Tony's at the J House in Greenwich has patio dining
Long view of the patio
Live music 4 nights weekly
Long view of the patio
This patio is a beautiful place, bringing the summery outside in on a cold winter's night. Lush with greenery and accented with patio-style swinging benches suspended by chains, it is a cozy, quieter alternative to the main dining room, especially when the live band is on.
Ready for a close-up
Live music 4 nights weekly
Long view of the patio
The bar wraps around three sides of the service island, where skilled bartenders pour wine from an excellent list and create cocktails that are either Tony's specialties or classic -- like this Old Fashioned.
Live music 4 nights weekly
Live music 4 nights weekly
Live music 4 nights weekly
Wednesday through Saturday, from 7-10 PM, a variety of live music happens in the lobby area, where a grand piano stands proudly by the modern glassed-in fireplace. Rock, country, pop, jazz -- it just depends on the night. (Above is a view from the bar. Not a bad seat in the house!)
Jazz Lounge @ DSM • Tuckahoe
John H. Smith • Guitar
John H. Smith • Guitar
John H. Smith • Guitar
John's style is influenced by many great guitar players, but especially George Benson and Joe Pass. You can also find him at Red Rooster every Sunday evening.
Janelle • Vocals
John H. Smith • Guitar
John H. Smith • Guitar
John and Janelle create a space for jazz artists and enthusiasts to hear the classic jazz standards. Musicians are welcome to sit in -- and receive a 50% discount on food and drinks.