NEW YORK — A new jazz conference seeks to determine what role jazz can play in today's society, and it has tapped Kareem Abdul-Jabbar as its keynote speaker.

Jazz Congress will hold its inaugural event on Jan. 11 in New York City. While Abdul-Jabbar is best known as a Hall of Fame basketball legend, he's also become a cultural commentator and has long been a jazz enthusiast; his father was a trombonist.

Abdul-Jabbar will discuss what role jazz can play in the cultural, political and social framework of today's society.

The goal of the Jazz Congress is to boost the jazz community, which has dwindled over the decades. The conference will be held at Jazz at Lincoln Center.

Charlotte to attend

nursery school in Jan.

LONDON — It's off to nursery school for Princess Charlotte.

Kensington Palace said Monday that Charlotte will attend the Willcocks Nursery School in London in January.

The daughter of Prince William and his wife, Kate, turns 3 in May. She is fourth in line to the British throne, after grandfather Prince Charles, father William and older brother Prince George.

School officials say they are "delighted" with the decision and look forward to welcoming Charlotte to the nursery.

Clarkson to perform

at Super Bowl events

MINNEAPOLIS — Kelly Clarkson will be performing for Super Bowl ticket holders during two separate events on game day.

The Star Tribune reports that Clarkson will perform at a pre-game party called the 52 Live party for Super Bowl ticket holders at the Armory. She'll also sing at another event inside the stadium at the Delta 360 Sky Club that afternoon.

Her concerts are part of different VIP ticket packages that include various parties. They range in price from $6,300 to $13,500.

Several other parties surrounding the Super Bowl are open to those without game tickets. Tickets are currently on sale for Jennifer Lopez, the Dave Matthews Band, Florida Georgia Line, Gwen Stefani and others.