Gulf Coast Jazz Festival honors Mobile legends Fred Wesley and Willie Hill

The Mobile City Council meeting on July 8, 2025, featured a presentation by Creole Ruffin representing the Gulf Coast Ethnic and Heritage Jazz Festival. Ruffin announced that this year's festival, scheduled for the end of July, will honor notable jazz legends from Mobile, highlighting the city's rich musical heritage.

Among those being honored is Fred Wesley, a prominent musician from the James Brown band, who has traveled internationally but has never performed in his hometown. Ruffin shared plans to propose a concert featuring Wesley in Mobile, although it will take place later in the year rather than during the festival.

Additionally, the festival will recognize Dr. Willie Lee Hill Jr., who will receive the Jose London Jazz Education Award. Dr. Hill is a former music professor at the University of Massachusetts and has held leadership roles in jazz education. Another honoree, Professor Fred Irby from Howard University, is known for founding the Howard University Jazz Ensemble.

Ruffin emphasized the importance of recognizing local talent and invited the city to participate in the festival's activities. Invitations for a meet-and-greet event with the honored musicians will be sent to city officials, encouraging community engagement with these influential figures in jazz music.

The meeting underscored Mobile's commitment to celebrating its cultural heritage and supporting local artists, with plans for further collaboration between the city and the festival organizers.