New Black Eagle Jazz Band

The Black Eagles, as they are often known to their fans, have been a fixture on the international jazz scene since 1971, bringing the sounds of traditional New Orleans Jazz to audiences all over the world. The band members regard themselves as the “Keepers of the Flame,” and many observers regard them as the premier band playing in the traditional jazz style.

For more than fifty years the New Black Eagle Jazz Band has delighted audiences worldwide with its infectious, soulful and uplifting style of traditional New Orleans jazz. While paying homage to the greatest musicians of the early jazz era- Louis Armstrong, Jelly Roll Morton, Duke Ellington -the band has also developed its own eclectic sound, incorporating spirituals, 1920’s and 30’s popular music and even some songs recorded by Elvis and Bob Dylan.

In October of 1971 the band started a weekly residency at the Sticky Wicket Pub in Hopkinton, Massachusetts. That gig lasted until 1990. After that they had regular gigs at The Old Vienna Kaffeehaus & Restaurant in Westborough, Massachusetts and then at The Coffee, Tea & Melody in Stow, Massachusetts. Over the years the band developed another side to its performing. About half their appearances in any year are in a concert setting. For a time in the 1970s and 1980s they were funded by the New England Touring Foundation and this enabled them to bring their music to many audiences that would not otherwise have been exposed to traditional jazz or jazz in any style. The Black Eagles have performed with a number of celebrated and historically important jazz figures over the years, including Claude Hopkins, Milt Hinton, Doc Cheatham, Benny Waters, Chester Zardis, Danny Barker and Kid Thomas Valentine.

The Black Eagles refuse to slavishly copy earlier jazz performances note for note. At all times, they are aware of the legacy and influence from such legendary New Orleans musicians as Louis Armstrong, George Lewis, Kid Ory, Sidney Bechet, Jelly Roll Morton, Paul Barbarin and, of course, The Preservation Hall Jazz Band, just to name a few of those who represent the best in the history of New Orleans Jazz. They also have a good selection of Duke Ellington and Ragtime to spice the pot.

With a Grammy nomination to its credit, a vast repertoire, a highly engaging stage manner, and seven inspired musicians deeply committed to keeping traditional jazz alive, the band is looking forward to playing for the next 50 years, and beyond.

Although age and health have necessitated personnel changes in the band, everyone in the band is fully committed to keeping the Black Eagles' sound alive, thriving, and continually growing.