Kevin Whitehead

A new 2-CD set features a decades-old recording of Mingus and his quintet at Switzerland's Montreux Jazz Festival. Citic Kevin Whitehead says the album showcases one of Mingus' most explosive bands.

In April, the singer, songwriter and pianist will be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. In anticipation, two compilations of Simone's early singles have been released.

Wilson became famous in the 1930s, playing in Benny Goodman's small groups and recording his own combo sides with a young Billie Holiday. A new collection reveals what else Wilson was up to back then.