In an historic decision, Columbia Records president Donnie Ienner names Branford Marsalis as the creative consultant to Columbia Jazz. Branford's new role makes him instrumental in shaping the creative direction of the label through the signing of new talent and providing creative input to current artist roster.

Buckshot LeFonque's second CD, Music Evolution, is released worldwide.

Branford accepts a position as the first appointee to the Catherine Herrick Cobb Distinguished Lectureship at Michigan University. He extends his year-long agreement, becoming a part-time faculty member and advisor. He continued in this capacity through Spring, 2000.

Release of Dark Keys marks Marsalis' first recording in the jazz trio format since his acclaimed 1993 album, Bloomington. The album is described as a wonderment of texture, mood, and air-tight ensemble performance and receives critical acclaim from musicians and critics alike.

Showtime movie, "Mr. & Mrs. Loving," for which Branford wrote the score, is premiered. The movie stars Lela Rochon and Tim Robbins.

Loved Ones, Branford's collaborative duet with father/pianist Ellis Marsalis, is released.

Branford is nominated for yet another Grammy with Bruce Hornsby in the category of "Best Instrumental Performance" for their stirring rendition of "The Star-Spangled Banner" which the duo performed for Ken Burns' memorable PBS series "Baseball."