Category: Interviews

GREGORY PORTER: LIVING WATER

Very rarely does an artist come “out of nowhere” to make an impressive debut. At age 39, when most singers are just finding their groove, Gregory Porter surprised everyone with a stunning debut Water. So many people were impressed that…

THE ALMA OF MIGUEL ZENON

When you see an artist perform, it’s easy to forget that not only are you getting the performer’s music, but his or her entire background as a human being. Alto saxophonist Miguel Zenon, who has a resume that includes Charlie…

LISA HILTON: AN IMPRESSIONED AMERICAN

Malibu based pianist Lisa Hilton’s latest release, American Impressions (with Nasheed Watts/dr, JC Allen/tenor, and Larry Grenadier/b)  is a sonic tribute to the unique sounds of this wonderful country. In her liner notes, which also includes photos of archetypal US…

AHMAD JAMAL: REAL SUCCESS

What would it take for you to consider yourself “successful?” When do you think you will finally “arrive?” Is success a destination, or simply a journey? What is your measure of a “successful” life? Pianist Ahmad Jamal has seen and…

A FIRESIDE CHAT WITH ARTHUR BLYTHE

At one time, Arthur Blythe was part of the Columbia machine (not unlike the Miramax machine, how else do you explain the Gangs of New York phenomenon). Then trends took precedent over music and a young Wynton over a middle-aged…

A FIRESIDE CHAT WITH AMIRI BARAKA

Amiri Baraka is one of the most influential Afro-American writers of my generation. Baraka’s Blues People: Negro Music in White America, Black Music, Digging: The Afro-American Soul of American Classical Music, and his countless poems and essays (available www.amiribaraka.com) are…