Harlem Stride was one of the most vibrant and sophisticated piano styles in the history of jazz—it was the greatest musical creation of the period … Continue reading "Harlem Stride!"

This is the story of one of jazz’s most heart-wrenching compositions, written on his deathbed by one of jazz’s greatest composers. Billy Strayhorn wrote “Blood … Continue reading "Billy Strayhorn’s “Blood Count”"

Lester Young was a true original, and his originality manifested not only in his innovative playing but also in his unique verbal play and wit. … Continue reading "“Lester-ese”"

As a fledgling jazz disc jockey in Newark, New Jersey in the early sixties, the author had an unexpected encounter with a future jazz great. … Continue reading "Woody n’ Me"

In this episode, Bob Hecht explores some of the things that Frank Sinatra, Billie Holiday and Lester Young had in common with one another musically. … Continue reading "Frank & Billie & Lester’s Mutual Admiration Society"

Since the first half of the 19th century, the sounds, symbols and metaphors of the train have cut across the American musical landscape. The significance of … Continue reading "The Train in Jazz & Blues"

There weren’t many alto players back in the late forties and early fifties who didn’t attempt to sound like the great Charlie Parker—his influence, on … Continue reading "Paul Desmond, Original"

Art Farmer was one of the jazz world’s all-time great trumpet and flugelhorn players, and one of its most lyrical. In this episode Bob Hecht … Continue reading "Farmer’s Art"

In some ways, “My Funny Valentine” is an unlikely song to have endured since the 1930’s… it is a rather atypical love song, imbued as … Continue reading "My Funny Valentine"

This podcast explores the history of the love-hate relationship of the jazz world and the Beatles. We trace the evolution of the Beatles initial, devastating … Continue reading "Beatle Jazz"