100th anniversary of the birth of Miles Davis

On 26 May 2026, let’s celebrate the 100th anniversary of the birth of trumpeter and composer Miles Davis.

Born in Alton, Illinois, this American musician and bandleader is an iconic figure in the history of jazz. Creator of legendary albums such as Kind of Blue and Bitches Brew, Miles Davis is renowned for his constant spirit of innovation and his major influence on several generations of musicians, including Herbie Hancock, Wayne Shorter and Marcus Miller. His work and his approach – refusing to repeat the past, seeking new forms, blending genres and placing his trust in young talent – continue to inspire jazz and contemporary music across the globe.

Throughout 2026, Belgium will celebrate the 100th anniversary of Miles Davis’s birth with a series of major events dedicated to the legendary trumpeter’s legacy. Regarded as one of the most influential artists in the history of jazz, Miles Davis revolutionised the genre by traversing and transforming several major movements, from bebop to cool jazz, from modal jazz to fusion, inspiring generations of musicians across the globe.

Must-see projects and events:

👉 The Brussels Jazz Orchestra’s ‘(…) What’s Not There’ project featuring American trumpeter Ambrose Akinmusire: Video

👉 Michel Mainil and Thomas Champagne’s ‘Kind of Blue Tribute’ and ‘We Want Miles’ projects: Video

👉 The tribute radio programme ‘Miles Davis 100 Years’ on 26 May at 7.30 pm on Musiq3: Article

👉 The ‘Tribute to Miles Davis’ project in concert at the Music Village on 19 June 2026.

These initiatives bear witness to Miles Davis’s enduring influence on contemporary jazz and demonstrate that, a century after his birth, his music continues to inspire artists and audiences around the world.