We Almost Lost Detroit - Brian Jackson Ensemble, Theo Parrish, Hypnotic Brass Ensemble & Aquilla Sadalla

Brian Jackson is a celebrated pianist and composer renowned for his work with Gil Scott-Heron, which has been foundational in the development of neo-soul and modern hip hop. His music, rich with social and political messages, has influenced major artists such as Tupac, Common, and Kendrick Lamar; with critically acclaimed albums like This Is Brian Jackson and 2084, Jackson’s contributions extend beyond music to include impactful public speaking and educational initiatives.

Theo Parrish is a Chicago-raised DJ, producer, and artist known for his influential work in Detroit’s creative community scene since 1995; he also  founded Sound Signature Recordings in 1997 and continues to produce vinyl records with the legendary Archer Record Pressing Co.
Parrish, who has a BFA in sound sculpture from the Kansas City Art Institute, continues to engage, challenge, and redefine the limits of  Black dance music, serving as an example of creative independence.

Hypnotic Brass Ensemble & Aquilla Sadalla – The 7 Sons of Chicago perform this special show alongside their mother, Aquilla Sadalla. Together, they have toured throughout Europe, Asia, Australia, Africa, and South America, playing with everyone from Prince and Mos Def to Mick Jones (The Clash) and Damon Albarn (Blur, Gorillaz). They’ve performed at renowned venues such as Coachella, WOMAD AU, Jazz at Lincoln Center, The Sydney Opera House, and Carnegie Hall.

Aquilla’s drive and testimony are clearly spiritual in nature and holistic in approach, with no exceptions. She believes that “the music must play the larger role in reclaiming our glory” as a major solution to the life problems that perpetually plague the human spirit, seemingly more now than ever before. Her hard work and commitment to music and motherhood have resulted in a family of brass musicians known to the world today as the Hypnotic Brass Ensemble.