D.D. JacksonPress Bio
For the full biography, see the Home About page. A condensed version suitable for programs and press use:
D.D. Jackson is an Emmy-winning composer, Juno-winning jazz pianist, producer, and educator. After receiving his B.Music with High Distinction in Classical Piano from Indiana University and his Masters in Jazz from the Manhattan School of Music, Jackson built a career spanning jazz performance, opera, television and film scoring, and education. His collaborators include Jack DeJohnette, James Carter, David Murray, and Questlove & The Roots. He has recorded 14 jazz albums as leader/co-leader and received two Emmy Awards and a Juno Award among numerous nominations. He currently teaches at NYU, Brooklyn College, and LIU Brooklyn. His most recent recording is "Poetry Project" (2024), featuring texts by George Elliott Clarke.
Press Photos
Photo: Keith Getter
Photo: C.P. Zemokhol
Portrait
Casual headshot
High-resolution versions available on request. Please credit photographers as noted.
Press Quotes & Reviews
"Jackson is one of the most versatile and accomplished musicians of his generation."
"A hunger for adventure."— Village Voice
"D.D. Jackson presents impressive brand-new music in his return to Ottawa."— Ottawa Citizen, May 2017
"Frustrated by Trump, D.D. Jackson rekindles his passion for jazz."— Feature review, 2017
Additional reviews and press clippings are being migrated from the previous site.
Press Releases
D.D. Jackson Releases First New CD as Leader in Over 12 Years
Press release for the "Poetry Project" album, released September 2024.
D.D. Jackson and James Brandon Lewis Duo Concert — Zurcher Gallery
Press release for the May 2017 performance.
Interviews & Appearances
All items where D.D. was a guest — podcast interviews, lectures, radio/TV features.
"D.D. — The Little Brother"
Radio documentary about D.D.'s early life and career.
Peter Thurton Lecture on Keith Jarrett & Oscar Peterson
Guest lecture exploring the contrasting approaches of two piano giants.
Interview with The Jazz Zone, Toronto
In-depth conversation about the Poetry Project and creative process.
Music Tech Fest Podcast Interview
Discussion on the intersection of music and technology.
Paridigms Podcast
Podcast interview covering career, creativity, and jazz life.
Nikhil Logan Podcast
Wide-ranging conversation on music, education, and artistry.
Radio Interviews on Poetry Project
Collection of radio appearances discussing the Poetry Project recording.
Radio & Television Appearances
Including CBC's "Fuse" program and various radio features as a jazz musician.
Discography and Awards
Awards
2 Emmy Awards (Outstanding Original Song, 2019; Outstanding Music Direction and Composition, 2016) · 5 total Emmy nominations · Juno Award ("...so far", Best Contemporary Jazz Album) · 6 Juno nominations · 2018 Cinequest Film Festival Audience Award (You & Me) · Hunter College Presidential Award for Excellence in Teaching
Selected Discography (as Leader/Co-Leader)
Poetry Project (2024) · Serenity Song (2006) · Courting the Now (w/ Hamiet Bluiett, 2005) · Suite for New York (2003) · Sigame (2001) · ...so far (1999) · Anthem (1999) · Paired Down Vol. 2 (1999) · Nasty Crab Legs (w/ David Murray, 1998) · Paired Down Vol. 1 (1998) · Peace-Song (1997, BMG/RCA Victor) · Rhythm-Dance (1996, BMG/RCA Victor)
Selected Sideman Credits
Questlove & The Roots · David Murray · James Carter · Jack DeJohnette · Hamiet Bluiett · Kahil El'Zabar · Ahmed Abdullah · Billy Bang · Kidd Jordan