Sweet Blackberry

We are saddened to share the passing of a true legend. On May 25, 2026, the world lost iconic American saxophonist and jazz pioneer, Sonny Rollins. 🎷

Walter Theodore “Sonny” Rollins was one of the most influential tenor saxophonists in jazz history, widely celebrated for his innovation, power, and unmatched improvisation.

Born in Woodstock, New York, he earned the nickname “Sonny” from his grandmother and was mentored by the great Thelonious Monk. Over an extraordinary seven-decade career, Rollins recorded more than 60 albums and was often called “the greatest living improviser.”

He was also the last surviving musician featured in the historic 1958 photograph A Great Day in Harlem, a defining image of jazz history.

Sonny Rollins achieved countless milestones and leaves behind a legacy that will continue to inspire generations. May we honor his life, his music, and the profound impact he made on the world. 🎶

May 25, 1926 - On this day, Miles Davis was born. 🎶

Miles Davis was born in Alton, Illinois and is considered one of the most influential jazz musicians in jazz history.

He’s also one of the most important musicians in jazz history as he constantly reinvented his sound and shaped multiple eras of music. He helped create genres such as “cool jazz,” and jazz fusion (which is mixing jazz with rock and funk).

He also influenced generations of musicians across jazz, hip-hop, and rock, and he was also known for never repeating the same sound twice.

May 24, 1944 - Today marks the day when Patti LaBelle was born! 🎤

Patti LaBelle is known most as the “Godmother of Soul,” and is known for styles: R&B, soul, gospel and pop. Patti LaBelle is one of the most powerful and influential vocalists in music history.

She’s known for her incredible vocal range and her unforgettable stage presence. She also is known for her high-energy live performances and all this lead to her being called the “Godmother of Soul.” She has won multiple Grammy awards and was even inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame. She’s also known as a Broadway performer and actress.

May 23, 1921 - On this day, “Shuffle Along” opened up on Broadway, a musical created by Eubie Blake and Noble Sissle. 🎭

This show wasn’t just any show, but a major turning point in history. This was one of the first major Black-written musicals to gain success.

It was also one of the first successful Broadway musicals written and performed by Black artists. It also helped to bring Black talent into mainstream Broadway audiences.

Before Shuffle Along, Black performers were often limited to only playing stereotyped roles. But after Shuffle Along, it opened up the door for Black performers to pursue their dreams.

May 22, 1914 - Happy Birthday to Sun Ra! ✨

His birth name is Herman Poole Blount, and he is known for helping to create the idea of Afrofuturism. Sun Ra has had a heavy influence on the music world as his music style was very different from traditional jazz.

He was very experimental when creating music. Sun Ra is still respected in many parts of the world today, where people not only respect his music, but his Afrofuturism ideas.

May 21, 1904 - Happy Birthday to legendary jazz pianist and composer, Fats Waller! 🎹

Fats Waller (real name Thomas Wright Waller) is based in New York City. He is known for playing a style called “Harlem Stride” piano style which incorporates: A strong left-hand “jumping” bass pattern, and fast, playful right-hand melodies. Some of his best known classics are “Ain’t Misbehavin’” and Honeysuckle Rose.”

Happy Birthday to Busta Rhymes! 🎙️

Busta Rhymes was born on May 20, 1972 in Brooklyn, New York.

He is known for being an influential rapper and hip hop icon. Busta Rhymes is known for his extremely fast and energetic rap style and for his unique music videos.

Busta Rhymes has had one of the longest running careers in hip hop (over 30 years), and he’s still active and widely respected in the industry today.

May 19, 1925 — Happy Birthday to Malcolm X. ✊🏾

Born Malcolm Little on this day, Malcolm X became one of the most influential and powerful voices of the Civil Rights Movement.

A brilliant speaker and fearless advocate for Black dignity, self-determination, and human rights, Malcolm challenged America to confront racism honestly and directly. His words inspired generations to think deeply about justice, identity, and equality.

Though often misunderstood in his lifetime, Malcolm X’s legacy continues to encourage people around the world to speak truth boldly and demand change.

May 18, 1946 - Happy Birthday Reggie Jackson! ⚾️

Born in Wyncote, Pennsylvania, Reggie Jackson is a legendary Major League Baseball right fielder player known mainly in the World Series for his clutch performances. He ended up earning his famous nickname “Mr. October.”

Despite facing intense racism during the Jim Crow laws in the South, Reggie Jackson is a great example of one accomplishing extraordinary things inspiring others to achieve their dreams.

May 17, 1988 — Dr. Patricia Bath received a patent for her groundbreaking invention. 👁️

On this day, Dr. Patricia Bath became the first Black woman doctor to receive a medical patent when she patented the Laserphaco Probe — a device that used laser technology to help treat cataracts and restore vision.

A pioneering ophthalmologist, inventor, and advocate for accessible healthcare, Dr. Bath dedicated her life to helping people see more clearly — in every sense of the word.

Her innovation changed lives around the world and opened doors for future generations of Black women in medicine and science.