Columbus Jazz Musicians to be Inducted Into Lincoln Theatre Walk of Fame

Jazz organist Bobby Floyd, jazz saxophonist Carl Sally, and jazz vocalist Nancy Wilson will take their place on the Lincoln Theatre Walk of Fame in an induction ceremony on Saturday, July 25, at 7 pm. Sponsored by the State Auto Insurance Companies, the event is free and open to the public.

The Lincoln Theatre Walk of Fame, a monument which honors Columbus natives who have made outstanding contributions in their professional careers, will honor these three legendary jazz musicians during a ceremony that will feature local jazz historian Dr. William T. McDaniel and the 2015 Walk of Fame Band comprised of drummer Jerry Powell, pianist Vernon Hairston, and bassist Derek DiCenzo, featuring vocalists Jeannette Williams, Errica Rivera, and Mary McClendon. The ceremony will then move outdoors to reveal the new stars on the Walk of Fame.

Bobby Floyd, Jazz Organist

A child prodigy, Bobby Floyd's delivery on piano, organ, and keyboards displays a unique musical power that uplifts and inspires. He has toured the world, performing with Ray Charles, Jeff Tyzik, Chris Howes, Byron Stripling, and his own trio. His current touring schedule includes performances with the Boston Pops, Rochester Philharmonic, Detroit Symphony, Vancouver Symphony, and Edmonton Symphony, as well performances with the legendary Count Basie Orchestra. Additionally, Floyd is the current pianist/organist for the Columbus Jazz Orchestra. He has taught at The Ohio State University, in his own private studio, and currently at the world-famous Jamey Aebersold Jazz Workshops. His critically acclaimed CDs include Interpretations, Setting the Standards, Floyd's Finest Gift, and Notes To and From My Friends.

Carl Sally, Jazz Saxophonist

Carl Sally has entertained audiences throughout the US and Canada when touring with rock 'n' roll legend Chuck Berry. He was inducted into the Jazz Hall of Fame in 2002, and has performed for President Carter, Vice President Rockefeller, and played the national anthem for the Kentucky Derby, MLB, NFL, and NBA. Sally has made numerous university appearances including Harvard, Yale, Ohio State, and Dennison. He has also served as Director of Entertainment for the Sheraton Hotels in Anchorage and Seattle.

Nancy Wilson, Jazz Vocalist

With more than 70 albums, three Grammy Awards, and an Emmy, Nancy Wilson has been labeled a singer of blues, jazz, cabaret, pop, soul, a "consummate actress," and "the complete entertainer" over her more than 50-year career. She was the recipient of the 2004 National Endowment for the Arts' Jazz Masters Fellowship award, the highest honor the US government bestows upon jazz musicians, and has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Wilson has also been awarded the 2005 NAACP Image Awards for Best Recording Jazz Artist, the 2005 UNCF Trumpet Award celebrating African-American achievement, a Lifetime Achievement Award from the NAACP in Chicago, and Oprah Winfrey's Legends Award.