As a musician myself, I can’t overstate the impact Black artists have had on my playing, my taste, and honestly, my entire relationship with music. From the deep pocket of James Gadson, who laid down some of the most effortlessly greasy and groovy drum parts in history (think about the song “Use Me” and you know what I mean), to the surgical precision of Questlove, and the sheer power and controlled chaos of Larnell Lewis (Snarky Puppy).
And Columbus? This city has long been home to an incredible lineup of Black musicians, many of whom are world-class talents, shaping the sound of jazz, funk, hip-hop, R&B, and more. If you aren’t paying attention, you’re missing out.
Here are 12 Black musicians and bands featuring Black musicians in Columbus and Central Ohio that deserve more than just a solid spot in your rotation.
Mary McClendon (Soul / Jazz / Vocalist)
A staple of Columbus jazz, Mary McClendon has been one of the most sought-after vocalists in the city for decades. She spent over 20 years as a featured vocalist with the Columbus Jazz Orchestra, performing at major venues and festivals. Her one-woman shows highlighting Ella Fitzgerald, Billie Holiday, and Nancy Wilson have been critically acclaimed, and her ability to channel the emotion and depth of these legendary singers is breathtaking.
In an interview with the Columbus Jazz Academy, McClendon says she’s been singing ever since she was a child. Now in her 80s, she’s accrued well over her 10,000 hours of practice to master the art of singing, and you can hear it in every note she belts. If you see her name pop up on a local marquee or calendar, drop what you’re doing and go see this soul legend in person.
Columbus Jazz Orchestra (Jazz / Big Band / Swing / Jazz Fusion)
If you’ve spent any time in Columbus, you know the Columbus Jazz Orchestra (CJO) isn’t just a local gem… it’s one of the premier jazz orchestras in the country. Under the leadership of Byron Stripling, the CJO blends the timelessness of big-band jazz with contemporary arrangements, pushing the genre forward while honoring its roots.
The CJO has shared the stage with symphony orchestras, dance companies, and choral groups, bringing jazz to audiences far beyond the traditional club setting. And within the ensemble, some of the most respected Black musicians in jazz keep the sound fresh, powerful, and deeply rooted in tradition.
Byron Stripling (Trumpet / Artistic Director)
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There are trumpeters, and then there’s Byron Stripling. A powerhouse player with the kind of charisma that commands a stage, Stripling has been dazzling audiences for decades with his vibrant tone and soulful delivery. Before leading the Columbus Jazz Orchestra, he played lead trumpet for the Count Basie Orchestra, touring with jazz greats like Dizzy Gillespie, Woody Herman, Lionel Hampton, and Dave Brubeck.
He’s a staple of pops orchestras across the country, making regular appearances with the Boston Pops, Pittsburgh Symphony, and National Symphony, among others. His leadership at the CJO has helped the orchestra evolve while keeping the legacy of jazz alive for new generations of listeners.
Bobby Floyd (Piano / Organ)
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If you’ve never heard Bobby Floyd play, you’re missing out on one of Columbus’ greatest musical treasures. A master of both piano and Hammond B3 organ, Floyd’s style is a blend of gospel, blues, jazz, and pure soul.
His résumé speaks for itself. He’s played with Ray Charles, Dr. John, and the Count Basie Orchestra, not to mention the numerous jazz legends who have passed through Columbus over the years. Whether playing solo, leading his own trio, or holding it down with the CJO, Floyd brings a level of musicality and groove that is simply unmatched.
Dwight Adams (Trumpet)
A fixture in the jazz world, Dwight Adams has one of the most distinct and soulful trumpet sounds you’ll hear. He spent more than 20 years touring with Stevie Wonder, an honor that speaks for itself, but his roots in jazz run just as deep.
A Detroit native, Adams was mentored by Marcus Belgrave and became a regular in the jazz scenes of both Detroit and Columbus. His playing is equally at home in the hard bop tradition as it is in the modern jazz landscape. Whether performing with the CJO, leading his own groups, or recording alongside some of the biggest names in jazz, Adams brings an effortless command of the instrument and a deep musical vocabulary.
Reggie Jackson (Drums / Percussion)
Few drummers have the versatility and groove that Reggie Jackson brings to the table. A Columbus native with a résumé that includes Diane Schuur, Dr. John, and Anthony Hamilton, Jackson has played everything from hard-swinging jazz to gospel, R&B, hip-hop, and beyond.
His ability to seamlessly move between genres has made him one of the most in-demand drummers in Columbus, and he continues to be a vital part of the city’s jazz and soul scene, notably being a member of the Bobby Floyd Trio. Personally watching Reggie perform with Robert Mason at Land-Grant Brewing Co. a few years back really opened my eyes to how unbelievably talented he truly is.
The Liquid Crystal Project (Jazz Hop / Hip-Hop Fusion)
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Founded by legendary Columbus producer J. Rawls, The Liquid Crystal Project bridges the worlds of hip-hop and jazz, carrying on the lineage of groups like A Tribe Called Quest and The Roots. They call their sound “Jazz Hop,” blending classic bebop influences with hard-hitting drums and deep, groove-driven bass lines.
Their performances effortlessly transition from John Coltrane classics to J Dilla tributes, making them one of the most exciting live acts in Columbus. They’ve toured internationally, played festivals across the country, and collaborated with artists ranging from Roy Hargrove to Ghostface Killah. Rumor has it there’s a long-awaited 5th album in the works, so be on the lookout for that in the future!
MojoFlo (Funk / Soul / R&B)
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Few bands in Columbus bring as much raw energy to the stage as MojoFlo. Led by the absolute force of nature that is Amber Knicole, this band blends funk, soul, and jazz into a high-energy performance that leaves no audience standing still.
Amber Knicole is a STAR… her vocal power, stage presence, and ability to command a crowd make every MojoFlo show a must-see event. Whether they’re playing festivals, clubs, or intimate venues, they bring a sense of showmanship that’s rare to find in today’s music scene.
Joey Aich (Hip-Hop / Conscious Rap)
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Columbus-born emcee Joey Aich is known for his razor-sharp wordplay, infectious energy, and ability to connect with audiences. Whether on stage or in the studio, his music reflects personal growth, resilience, and the experiences that shape his life.
He’s performed nationwide, self-funded his own tours, and continues to be a pillar of Columbus’ independent hip-hop scene.
Sydney McSweeney (Vocalist)
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Sydney McSweeney is a Columbus-based vocalist whose journey into jazz started exactly where it’s supposed to… at a local jam session, nerves and all. A classically trained mezzo-soprano and Otterbein University alum, McSweeney spent years performing, teaching, and collaborating around the city before falling headfirst into jazz after regularly attending the Tuesday night Jazz Night at Park Street Tavern.
What began as feeling out of place slowly turned into a deep love for the genre and a growing fluency in its language.
T.Wong (Alternative R&B / Neo-Soul)
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One of Columbus’ most unique and visionary artists, T.Wong blends R&B, neo-soul, and alternative sounds into something that feels entirely his own. His music has been recognized by AFROPUNK, Soul Train, and NPR, and his live performances are nothing short of mesmerizing.
Beyond music, he’s also an attorney and educator, proving that artistry and intellect most certainly go hand in hand.
fo/mo/deep (Funk / Jazz / Fusion)
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If you like your jazz with a heavy dose of groove, fo/mo/deep is a must-listen. This Columbus-based jazz-funk-fusion trio thrives on deep, head-nodding bass lines, unpredictable rhythms, and an unapologetic love for the experimental energy of the ‘70s. Think Herbie Hancock’s Headhunters, Weather Report, and The Crusaders, but with their own modern twist.
Their live shows are unpredictable, locked in the pocket, and always funky. Whether you’re a jazz-fusion head or just someone who loves a good groove, fo/mo/deep delivers.
Band Members:
• Ron Holmes – Electric / Upright Basses
• Andre Scott – Drums
• Robert Mason – Piano / Organ / Keyboards
• Anthony Jackson – Soprano / Tenor Saxes
Dr. Mark Lomax, II
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Dr. Mark Lomax II is one of Columbus’s most important musical minds, period. A critically acclaimed composer, drummer, educator, and activist, Lomax’s work lives at the intersection of jazz, classical music, gospel, and history. His most ambitious project, 400: An Afrikan Epic, is a 12-album cycle that also includes a curriculum and documentary, received institutional support from the Wexner Center for the Arts and has been presented nationwide.
Whether he’s behind a drum kit or writing for a full symphony, Lomax’s music is powerful, intentional, and deeply rooted in storytelling. He’s not just shaping the sound of Columbus, he’s using music to challenge, educate, and imagine what the future can sound like when history is fully acknowledged.
Support the Scene!
Columbus has no shortage of incredible Black musicians — this list just scratches the surface. If you love live music, go to a show, stream their albums, buy their merch, and keep the legacy of great music alive.
Who did we miss? Let us know here! This city’s got too much talent to fit in just one article.
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