Mavis Staples started singing with her family, the Staples Singers, in the '50s. With a voice that belied her tiny size, she eventually became the center of attention of the group.

Kenny Barron is among many great jazz artists who have called Philadelphia home. Now, with over 90 recordings, the revered pianist is not letting off the gas.

Trumpeter and music executive Herb Alpert became a superstar of the 1960s with his Tijuana Brass, and has continued to transport music fans ever since.

With a unique, muscular sound on his tenor sax, Billy Harper broke into the 1970s New York jazz scene, launching a long and adventurous career.

The versatile guitarist has played with celebrated and unsung jazz heroes from the mid-1950s onward. Burrell and many of his fellow Detroiters are some of the music’s most renowned leaders and sidemen.

Drummer, composer and producer Harvey Mason Sr. is as versatile as any musician could ask for, working on some of the most notable recordings in the past 50 years.

Singer Maria Muldaur is known for her California-style blues singing. She's toured extensively for over 50 years and become a champion for Americana and folk music.

Louis Hayes is regarded as one of the great hard bop drummers in jazz. He recorded on key records in the '50s and '60s and led his own bands for most of the next 50 years.

Joni Mitchell first made a name for herself as part of the '70s folk scene. But from her very early career, jazz musicians and jazz have influenced her music.

From soul jazz to classical music and even backing up Paul McCartney, Hubert Laws' dedication to the flute means you've probably heard him play, even if you didn't realize it.