Dave Chappelle Speaks at Jazz at Lincoln Center Gala to Honor Duke Ellington’s Legacy

At a gala hosted by Jazz at Lincoln Center on May 1, 2025, attendees celebrated the 125th anniversary of jazz legend Duke Ellington’s birth. The evening featured glamorous red carpet moments and performances, with many in the crowd dressed in elegant gowns and tuxedos. Alec Baldwin and his wife Hilaria Baldwin were among the guests, sharing their personal musical tastes, which range from classical and Japanese jazz to Billie Eilish. As part of the event, comedian Dave Chappelle took the stage to emphasize the importance of preserving the traditions of jazz music, highlighting its significance not just as a genre but as a cultural and historical movement. The event marked a festive yet poignant moment in the ongoing conversation about how to maintain the legacies of influential musicians like Ellington. Attendees not only enjoyed performances but also reflected on the role jazz continues to play in modern music and society.