Tribute to Roy Brooks at Bert's

BY LARS BJORN

A very well-attended tribute for Roy Brooks was held at Bert's Jazz Marketplace in Eastern Market on December 12. It was organized by Musicians United to Save Indigenous Culture and brought out many key members of Detroit's jazz community.

Most importantly, Roy Brooks, drummist extraordinaire, showed up and played one number. He was ailing, transported via wheelchair to the stage, but accompanied Geri Allen and others on a large ride cymbal with more drive than drummers a fraction of his age. It was a momentous moment for everyone present, particularly those who were familiar with Brooks' recent stretch of hard times in prison and nursing home.

Pianist Geri Allen was the most illustrious name jamming on stage, at least in the early part of the evening. (James Carter was supposed to show up). Others who took part included tenorist Donald Walden (who led the proceedings), trumpeter Rayse Biggs, altoist Cassius Richmond, baritonist Ernie Rodgers, trombonist Vincent Chandler, pianists Ken Cox and Teddy Harris, bassist Marion Hayden, drummers Bert Myrick and Johnny Cleaver, and vocalist Martha Reeves.

Left, top: Geri Allen at the piano
Middle: Ken Cox at the piano, with Rayse Biggs
Bottom: Donald Walden, with Ernie Rodgers
Right: Roy Brooks

photographs by Lars Bjorn