Randy Weston, Ben Williams Headline 2011 Congressional Black Caucus Jazz Concert in DC

Pictured (l-r) following the concert are ASCAP's Adrian Ross and Esther Green, Weston, Williams and Congressman John Conyers, Jr. (D-MI)
Photo credit: Jati Lindsay

Congressman John Conyers, Jr. (D-MI), Chairman of the House Judiciary Committee and Dean of the Congressional Black Caucus, hosted the 25th Annual Jazz Issue Forum and Concert. The concert forum took place during the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation's 41st Annual Legislative Conference, September 21-24 at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center in Washington, DC. ASCAP has long been one of the concert's co-sponsors.

The concert featured award-winning jazz pianist and composer Randy Weston and African Rhythms and bassist Ben Williams and Sound Effect.

Weston who began his professional career in the late 1940's, is a leading jazz composer, band leader and pianist, he has made numerous recordings in various group formats. He has recorded in solo, trio, mid sized groups and collaborations, incorporating African elements into his music. Williams is the winner of the Thelonious Monk International Bass Competition and released his debut album, State of Art, in June, 2011.