Orrin & Dawn Evans started Imani Records circa 2000 with Dawn’s severance check from an employer. Rather than waiting for a major label, booking agent or manager to launch his career, the team took the reins and decided on the DIY approach. The first several releases were partially funded by grants from PennPAT and personal favors. Orrin went on to release 20+ recordings on other labels all with little to no budget for tour support or marketing, but in 2017 the pair decided to relaunch the label this time focusing on helping other artists reach a larger audience. The collective of artists, also known as the Imani Records All stars includes Jonathan Michel, Caleb Wheeler Curtis, Luke Carlos O’Reilly, Neil Podgursky, Tina Raymond, Thomas Marriott, Milton Suggs and Michelle Lordi. They’ve performed at The Pittsburgh International Jazz Festival, Exit Zero Festival and DC Jazz Festival, clubs and performance venues across the country.

Orrin Evans started The Captain Black Big Band in 2009 as a way to bring students and mentors together. In 2019 “Presence” was nominated for “Best Large Jazz Ensemble” and in 2021 “The Intangible Between” was nominated for that category. Everyone cautions against a large ensemble- but this band has always been about love. It’s time to document this amazing band and their journey, and with any luck the 3rd time will be the charm and this band will bring home a Grammy. We’re enlisting the help of music lovers to help complete this project. Our goal is to raise 10k to assist with the costs to complete the recording. Every little bit helps!

~ Dawn Evans