Podcaster Obehi Ewanfoh, an African producer based in Verona, Italy, recently invited me to appear on his podcast series. Here’s the result – and enjoy the conversation.
Radio
A June Black Music Month Special Not To Be Missed!
In honor of Black Music Appreciation Month this June – and in loving tribute to the late master vocalist Al Jarreau – PRX is rereleasing a special 13-part Smithonian Productions series called, Jazz Singers.
With Jarreau as the series’ enthusiatic and knowledgeable guide/narrator, each episode explored different aspects of the history and the art of jazz singing and improvisation.
Originally, these shows aired on public radio stations nationwide in 2001. They featured the artistry and words of wisdom from singers like Billie Holiday, Ella Fitzgerald, Kurt Elling, Diana Krall, Louis Armstrong, Anita O’Day, Abbey Lincoln, Bobby McFerrin and Dianne Reeves – just to name a few.
I was fortunate enough to serve as one of the writer/producers on the series, and you can hear my producing handiwork on episode #5 (With a Little Help From My Friends), episode #9 (It’s Our World…Sometimes: Women Jazz Singers), and episode #13 (Today,Tomorrow…Forever?).
So whether you decide to check out all the shows or just a select few, kick back, relax, and get be prepared to savor this series – a true labor of love for our Smithsonian Institution production team.
Celebrating Black History Month 2022!
It’s that time of year again…time to celebrate the richness of history from an African American perspective.
So if you’re interested in learning more about the men and women and movements that define Black history – and American history – check out the selections offered by the University of Illinois Press. The press is offering a major sale of books celebrating Black lives (including my book, Word Warrior: Richard Durham, Radio, and Freedom) throughout the month of February.
Enjoy!
Celebrate: It’s Black Music Month!
June is busting out all over – and so is music!
Celebrate Black Music Month – a designation initiated in 1979 by President Jimmy Carter – by checking out the following article from the
National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC) in Washington, DC.
You’ll want to break out the records (remember them?), tapes and CDs, or go to your favorite music radio station or streaming service to hear the creations – through the ages – of Black music in all its forms.
And from the Smithsonian’s Black Radio Telling it Like It Was radio series – recently re-released by PRX – check out these two episodes about the enduring influence of radio and Black music.
Enjoy and celebrate!
Black Radio – Fascinating Info For Your Eyes & Your Ears
Check out this article about the re-release of a historic series exploring the history of Black Americans and radio.
PRX re-releases series exploring the history of Black culture through radio