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"In The Tradition, a group who definitely get's their name right – as they play with just the right sort of spiritual, righteous jazz modes. Proof that there's still plenty of great jazz going on in Detroit - if you know where to look!"
-Rick Wojcik, Dusty Groove America

"For real, IN-YOUR-FACE jazz, catch In The Tradition live, whenever and wherever you can!"
-Salah Ahmed, The Michigan Citizen

"Solid stuff. Really earthy and groove-oriented, but with those great bop forms. Serious mix of African rhythms and bop improvisation. A Must Have"
-Jazzbo Johnson, Jazz Critic

"A stimulating mix of African Rhythms, Jazz, & Funk. Like a musical soul-mate that you want to take with you everywhere you go”- Dr. Gloria House

“Stunning performance!”
-Jim Gallert, Music Historian/Critic
(after witnessing In The Tradition at Detroit’s 2004 International Jazz Festival.)

“In The Tradition” began as the Christopher James / Charles Hopkins Quintet. At its inception the band was recognized as a formidable Hard-swinging Bebop ensemble that was faithful to the classic Bebop tradition and also featured unique originals. The band was re-named “IN THE TRADITION” and began to focus more on the music of the African Diaspora yet remaining true to the Bebop tradition, creating a unique mixture of Jazz and African Rhythms and for 2011, the band will begin a new "educational piece" to their performances whenever posible (depending on venues ability to accommodate)

Each member of "In The Tradition" are seasoned musicians, band members have performed individually with other artists such as Dizzie Gallespie, Grant Greene, Mose Allison, BB King, Milt Jackson, Marcus Bellgrave, Johnny O'neal, Hugh Lawson, Gladys Knight, Aretha Franklin, Martha Reeves, and many others.

Their latest CD release, (The Tradition Continues! - 12/09) received National and International AirPlay in over 75 jazz markets such as Costa Rica, Barbados, England, Canada, Switzerland, and numerous cities across the USA. Setting the stage for future performances outside of S.E. Michigan.

The most common response from DJ's, Program Directors, & call in listeners:
"WE NEED/WANT MORE MUSIC LIKE THIS!!!"

The current personnel consists of:
Charles Hopkins, Trumpet/Flugelhorn/Mellophone;
Olujimi Tafataona, Alto/Tenor Saxophones, & Flutes;
Brad Shearer, Piano;
Imari Jendayi, Vocals/Precussion.
Kefentse Chike, Djembe/Conga;
Greg Cook, Bass;
Melanie White, Trombone;
Mark Berger, Baritone Saxophone;
Djalo Djakate, Drums;

IN THE TRADITION'S horn section prefer

Aurora Harris
Author, Poet, Activist,
"A Woman of Inspiration for Humanity"
Purchase Her New Book Today!


June 19, 1865 National Day of Freedom For African People In America

Video On History of Juneteenth

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IN YOUR LOCAL AREA!
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Charles Hopkins
and the members of IN THE TRADITION Would like to extend a well deserved
CONGRATULATIONS!
to Charles' Uncle, Mr. Clark Terry for his recent "Life Time Achievement Award" We commend you and have the utmost respect for you Mr. Terry!
YOU'RE THE MAN!!!
You've been an inspiration to us all!

SIRIUS!

THE TRADITION CONTINUES!