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.