Night At The Sir John’s Knight Beat

Jazz, history, and community spirit converge in an evening honoring Miami’s musical legacy and the iconic venues that shaped it.

Night at the Sir John’s Knight Beat, taking place Friday, February 27 at the African Heritage Cultural Arts Center, revives the atmosphere of the legendary clubs that once defined the city’s Black music scene. Curated by artist-in-residence Daniel Washington, the event celebrates the legacy of the Chitlin’ Circuit—venues that provided essential stages for artists like Art Blakey, Miles Davis and Billie Holiday during segregation.

Launched in 2025 as part of the Center’s 50th anniversary and Black History Month celebrations, this annual gathering continues to honor the musicians and cultural spaces that transformed struggle into sound and shaped the enduring rhythm of Miami’s jazz heritage.