Welcome to my news page everyone. This is the first time that I am updating my site in over a year and although it feels strange it also feels good. Obviously we have lost many friends and loved ones but we must continue to celebrate Life & Love. That said there has been some positive things happening and I would like to share some of them with you all.

I recently accepted the position of Endowed Chair of Jazz Studies at UMKC in Kansas City starting this fall. I am taking over this position from my friend and master musician Bobby Watson who did an amazing job for nearly 20 years. Bobby has retired from this position but he won’t be able to get away from us. This opportunity and next chapter in my life is an honor and a blessing. I will do my best to continue building this program, the music community and students to embrace the beauty of the music ahead. The program has some amazing talent in the faculty, students, staff and administration so you will continue to hear great things coming from jazz at UMKC. Here is the announcement: https://conservatory.umkc.edu/posts/welcome-carl-allen,-william-d.-and-mary-grantendowed-professor-of-jazz-studies.html

The music, ah…. Yes there a few new projects in the works. One of them is Carl Allen & Full Circle. This band features some veteran musicians alongside some of the “newbies” on the scene. This is a very personal project for me because I feel an obligation to help those who are up and coming as it was done for me by so many great musicians. There is another project which I will unveil soon but we will also do some of the gigs that had to be postponed due to COVID with my Art Blakey tribute project.

Check out my schedule and if you’re in the area come and check out the music.

More to come…

Please check out my new online store where you can buy t-shirts, hoodies, masks, tote bags, mugs, sweatshirts, long sleeve t-shirts and more at https://shop.spreadshirt.com/carl-allen-online-store/

Until the next time I pray for peace, health, love and prosperity for all.

Love & Swing,
Carl