The Unsung Influence of Philadelphia’s Black Press on Jazz Culture
Before John Coltrane became synonymous with jazz brilliance, Philadelphia’s Black newspapers were already illuminating his talent. These publications were instrumental in shaping the city’s vibrant jazz scene, which flourished from the 1940s to the 1960s. The Word is the Music, an exhibition curated by students from Jubilee School, delves into this rich musical heritage. It highlights how outlets like the Philadelphia Tribune, School, and Nite Scene chronicled and nurtured the burgeoning jazz community in North Philadelphia.
The exhibition showcases a variety of archival materials alongside original writings and artwork by Jubilee students, emphasizing the significant role played by the Black press in connecting music with the wider community. The Word is the Music forms a part of the North Philadelphia History Festival: The John Coltrane Edition. This initiative is backed by the William Penn Foundation, Senator Vincent Hughes, the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development, People’s Media Fund, and the City of Philadelphia.
The exhibition will be held at Widener Library on October 25, 2026, at 5:00 P.M.
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