Sun Ra Arkestra
“The intergalactic ensemble formed by Sun Ra some 70 years ago still thrives as an Afrofuturist institution with its own literature, language and lore.” – WRTI
Sun Ra founded the Sun Ra Arkestra in Chicago in the mid-1950’s. He was among the earliest pioneers of the synthesizer and the free jazz revolution of 1960’s. Sun Ra sent a strong spiritual and musical message to his Arkestra wanting them to help make the universe better through positive vibrations and music. The Sun Ra Arkestra are known worldwide for their live shows that combine big-band swing, space-age jazz, singing, dancing, chanting and Afro-pageantry. The Arkestra has been at the forefront of Afro-futurism since their inception. They have recorded more than 100 albums including their 2020 album Swirling, which was nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Big Band Jazz Ensemble recording. After more than 60 years the band continue to travel the globe on their Inter-Galactic tour.
