Sullivan Fortner Jazz Pianist Confronts Hurricane Katrina Trauma 2026

Jazz pianist Sullivan Fortner confronts Hurricane Katrina trauma in his new album, Leave That in There, blending raw emotion with innovative sound. In an exclusive interview, Fortner reveals how a bold creative decision—taking an edible and saying 'screw it'—led to his most authentic work yet.

The three-time Grammy winner, who recently received the prestigious Larry J Bell award, opens up about the profound impact of the 2005 disaster on his music. Growing up in New Orleans, Fortner experienced firsthand the devastation that reshaped his hometown and his artistic vision.

The Creative Breakthrough Behind Leave That in There

Fortner's sixth album marks a departure from his previous perfectionist approach. 'I've tried the self-editing way,' he admits, referring to albums involving multiple takes and endless post-production tinkering. This time, he chose spontaneity over control, resulting in a record that captures his full artistic range.

The album's title comes from a poignant moment in Spike Lee's documentary When the Levees Broke, where a woman's understated resilience inspired Fortner. The film, which exposed the US government's failure during Katrina, serves as a backdrop for the album's themes of loss and recovery.

Musical Diversity and Cultural Roots

From the opening track 'Sugarcane' with its bàtá drumming to the wordless Stevie Wonder-like hymn for his late friend Linda Payne, the album traverses diverse musical landscapes. Latin acoustic piano, Hammond organ lines, Thelonious Monk tributes, and whirling Moog synths all find their place.

Fortner describes Black music as 'a tornado that's always getting bigger and moving faster,' a metaphor that captures both the chaos of Katrina and the dynamic evolution of his artistry. The album roots itself in Louisiana's history, including the sugar trade's dark legacy of slave labor.

Comparing Fortner's Previous Albums

Key Takeaways from the Interview

• Fortner's new album embraces imperfection and authenticity over polished production.
• Hurricane Katrina remains a central influence, shaping the album's emotional core.
• The Larry J Bell award gave Fortner confidence to present his full artistic self.
• The album celebrates Black music's forward-moving, tornado-like energy.

FAQ

Fortner's journey from trauma to triumph resonates deeply, offering listeners a powerful musical narrative that confronts the past while celebrating the present. His willingness to let go of control has produced a work that is both personal and universal, cementing his place as a leading voice in contemporary jazz.

Best Products We’ve Tested and Rated

Our testing team has hands-on reviews of nordstrom anniversary sale deals shop now, nordstrom anniversary sale deals worth buying now, swimsuits bikinis mens trunks summer, womens travel dresses, and bags interchangeable straps. Every option below was compared across price, build quality, and real-world performance, with honest pros and cons. We update these guides regularly as new models arrive, so the recommendations stay current.

Our testing team has hands-on reviews of post surgical bra breast reduction, old money surnames boy girl, workout clothes women, thermal camera, and underwater camera. Every option below was compared across price, build quality, and real-world performance, with honest pros and cons. We update these guides regularly as new models arrive, so the recommendations stay current.