Marshall Allen Birthday Broadcast

Marshall Allen Birthday Broadcast
Saturday, May 25, 2024 - 12:00am to 11:59pm

Born in Louisville, Kentucky, on May 25th, 1924, Marshall Allen is a saxophonist, bandleader, and a fearless explorer of sound. WKCR is excited to announce a birthday broadcast on Saturday, May 25th, to celebrate his centennial.

During World War II, Marshall Allen served in the US Army 92nd Division Infantry, where he showcased his musical talent as a member of the Army band, and studied alto saxophone in Paris, where he was stationed. In 1955, he joined the Sun Ra Arkestra and has held the position of their leader since 1995 (after Sun Ra's death in 1993 and John Gilmore's death two years later). He remains actively engaged in composing and recording with the Arkestra, and still often tours with them when performances are within driving distance of his Philadelphia home.

Marshall Allen's life philosophy, greatly influenced by his encounter with Sun Ra, remains a subject of profound admiration and inspiration. Their meeting in the early 1950s forged a deep mutual respect, guiding their musical trajectories. Since 1968, Allen has resided in "The Pharaoh’s Den," a historic landmark in Philadelphia, once the home of Sun Ra and the Arkestra, where he continues to reside. His music continues to be a source of inspiration for spiritual upliftment. WKCR recognizes the profound impact of Allen's work as a symbol of his enduring commitment to artistic exploration, and fostering harmony throughout the world.

Follow WKCR on Instagram (@wkcr) and Twitter (@WKCRFM) for further updates. Online listening is available 24/7 at wkcr.org via our web stream.