Capturing the Soul of New York: "If Only We Knew" Unveils Unique Fusion of Street and Jazz Photography

Brooklyn NY, March 2024 – Photographer John Rogers unveils a captivating masterpiece in his latest release, "If Only We Knew," a mesmerizing blend of street and rare jazz photography. Following the success of his debut book, "Old and New Dreams," this companion volume delves deeper into the rich tapestry of New York jazz music, presenting a visual symphony that resonates with aficionados of jazz, photography, street portraiture, and beyond.

Key Highlights:

"If Only We Knew" seamlessly integrates street photography with rare glimpses into the jazz world, creating a powerful narrative that transcends artistic boundaries.

Musical Emotions Unveiled:

Through the lens of John Rogers, the book unravels the emotional connection between the world of jazz and the streets of New York. Each photograph captures the essence of a musician's emotion, juxtaposed with the similar expressions of everyday individuals.

Renowned pianist and composer Robert Glasper lends his insight with a heartfelt forward, adding an extra layer of depth to the visual journey presented in the book.

"If Only We Knew" is a worthy successor to "Old and New Dreams," building upon John Rogers two decades of experience and passion for both street and jazz photography.

This release appeals to connoisseurs of New York jazz, photography enthusiasts, street photography, and those captivated by the intersection of art and emotion.

"If Only We Knew" is set to be released on March 1st 2024 and will be available only at Shopify through Johnrogersnyc.com.

Buy If Only We Knew

For media inquiries, or interview requests, please contact: jazzcavejohn@gmail.com

About the Author:

John Rogers is a seasoned photographer with over 20 years of experience, renowned for his ability to capture the soul of moments through his lens. His work has been celebrated in the art and jazz communities, establishing him as a singular voice in the world of visual storytelling.

Old & New Dreams, Hardcover book by John Rogers

with introduction by Dawoud Bey.

$75.00

Shipping is included in the sale price. New York state sales tax will be added to all sales in New York. International orders are not available at this time.

Buy Old and New Dreams

Photographer John Rogers’ Book Debut Showcases Images of Acclaimed Improvisers Including Ornette Coleman, Paul Motian and Dr. Yusef Lateef Along with Pandemic-Era NYC Street Photography in Old and New Dreams.

Old and New Dreams, is a striking document of veteran NYC music and street photographer John Rogers' evolving vitality. In his first published collection of photography, Rogers draws from his fifteen-year, pre-pandemic live concert image catalog featuring master improvisers such as Ornette Coleman, Cecile McLorin Salvant, Paul Motian, Dr.Yusef Lateef, and Bill Frisell juxtaposed with the starkness of present-day New York City behind its pandemic mask.

Using the global pandemic as a dividing line, the title of Rogers' book debut speaks to his previous passion and evolving vision. As he collided with the restrictions of the pandemic, the global quarantine gave Rogers an opportunity to take inventory. The synergy captured in his candid, energetic, and set-rousing music photos seen in Old and New Dreams extends beyond the notes. Many of the musicians in the book became admirers of John's work including Billy Hart, Ornette Coleman, Andrew Cyrille, Jason Moran and Chris Potter. In total, 45 musicians are captured in Rogers' distinctive style that is as real and in the moment as what was happening on the bandstand.

As the music-in-motion is captured loudly and vibrantly on Old and New Dreams, Rogers' city portraits are, in contrast, much quieter but compelling to the viewer with an understated intensity with bursts of color and light. The resultant pictures are giving Rogers' increased visibility and embrace in the photography and art community and among them is MacArthur fellow and artist Dawoud Bey. Bey has been an invaluable teacher, supporter and advocate for Rogers' work and contributes the written introduction to Old and New Dreams.

"John, alone among everyone I know, clearly and with great prescience, saw the full and catastrophic weight of this pandemic coming before it even fully hit," Bey said. “He has persisted in [his] work and has accumulated a group of quietly powerful pictures that stand as an engaging testimony to a city whose beating heart will not soon be extinguished." ~ Dawoud Bey

“John Rogers rides his bike all over New York City. There is danger and risk involved. He is exposed. There is nothing between him and what’s happening. He’s in it. The same is true when he’s amongst musicians and the music he loves. He’s in it. This intimacy comes through in his photos. He brings us along for the ride”. ~ Bill Frisell

“For all the years I’ve spent performing creative music, I never thought that I would end up in a position to have a photographer with whom I would work regularly. John Rogers came into my life very early on and has not only taken photos that totally capture the ethos, the beauty, and the urgency that surrounds my work, but he has also proved an invaluable friend who understands the meaning of life well-spent making art that is direct, honest, and progressive. I feel blessed to have a friend and a photographer whose work and being possesses all of these qualities.” ~ Dr Tyshawn Sorey