Legacy is a joyous centennial celebration of the legendary J.J. Johnson by admired trombonist, composer, educator and label founder Nick Finzer. Known as one of jazz’s most profound luminaries, J.J. Johnson is considered one of the most influential and pioneering trombonists in jazz history. Legacy assembles Johnson’s original band members including pianist Renee Rosnes, bassist Rufus Reid, and drummer Lewis Nash, and was recorded at the iconic Rudy Van Gelder studios in Englewood, NJ, where Johnson himself recorded many of his classic albums. Featuring a host of arrangements of Johnson’s compositions, pieces from his regular songbook, and Finzer’s own originals that exemplify Johnson’s distinctive style, Legacy is not merely a tribute album, but stands as a testament to the ever-present and transformative influence Johnson still has today.

Finzer’s affinity and connection with Johnson runs deep, beginning over twenty years ago when the Rochester-born musician first picked up the trombone. With 2024 marking Johnson’s centennial, Finzer has taken up the mantle not only of highlighting the mastery and lasting impact of Johnson’s playing, but his substantial impact as a prolific arranger, educator, and pioneer within the genre of jazz trombone. Finzer shares: “Sometimes it is the nature of our industry to overlook the trombone, but as my mentor, Steve Turre has said many times, ‘J.J. Johnson did for the trombone what Charlie Parker did for the saxophone.’ He was a true innovator of his time, and his innovations have lasted throughout his lifetime and beyond.”