Back in 2015, as I was reshaping my musical path and publishing my second book, fate introduced me to one of the most extraordinary visionaries I’d ever met: Sohrab Saadat Ladjevardi (SoSaLa). Our connection deepened over unforgettable moments (including an impromptu jam session at the legendary jazz man Ornette Coleman’s apartment). But it was Sohrab’s fiery passion for justice that sparked something even bigger.

Shocked by the exploitation of NYC musicians working tirelessly for little or no pay while trapped in unfair systems, he refused to stay silent. Musicians For Musicians (MFM) was born from that defiance. The early days were far from straightforward:  bold ideas, heated debates, and relentless trial and error. Yet Sohrab led by example, investing his time, energy, and personal resources to turn vision into action.

This was the Birth of a Movement and A Decade of Fighting for Fairness!

Over the past decade, MFM has evolved into a powerful nonprofit force, uniting musicians across genres and borders to advocate for rights, recognition, and fair compensation. From spearheading advocacy for the Freelance Isn’t Free Act to battling for fair streaming royalties and AI protections, MFM has amplified the collective voice of artists who refuse to be silenced.

Now, it’s time to celebrate this milestone—and the work still ahead. Join us for MFM’s 10th Anniversary Bash! An unforgettable evening of music, solidarity, and resistance as we honor a decade of progress and rally for the future.

Special Performances by:

The MFM Unity Ensemble, featuring: Joe Lovano (Grammy-winning saxophonist & educator) and Arturo O’Farrill (8x Grammy-winning pianist & Afro Latin Jazz Alliance founder) w. Peter Gordon (sax), Ron Wasserman (b), Royal Hartigan (dr), and Volker Goetze (tr).

SoSaLa’s Nu NO WAVE band, with sax player and vocalist SoSaLa, guitarist Mark C. (Live Skull), and drummer Andy Weintraub. Guest appearance by David Belmont (dobro) and Baba Don Eaton (congas).

Note: All musicians are MFM members!

Tributes & Remarks from:

Jazz in the Neighborhood founder Mario Guarneri
Bass legend Steve Swallow
Reps from the Recording Academy, Independent Musicians Alliance, and Music Workers Alliance

Event Details:

September 5, 2025
The Cutting Room | 44 E 32nd St, NYC
9:00 PM (Doors) | 9:30 PM (Music)
FREE for MFM members | $20 for non-members

This isn’t just a party—it’s a call to arms. After a decade, the fight continues. Please stand with us! Let’s see what the next decade will bring!