Joshua Redman
This is an interview with acclaimed jazz saxophonist Joshua Redman, who discusses his latest album, Where Are We, and his upcoming concert in Denver. Redman talks about the concept behind the album and how he chose the songs for it. He also discusses his collaboration with vocalist Gabrielle Cavassa and their unique album-making process.
Linda Theus-Lee
This episode features an interview with Linda Theus-Lee. She discusses her extensive musical career, education, and community involvement. She shares insights into her songs “Don't Stop the Music” and “You Make Me Smile,” highlighting the personal significance and inspiration behind the lyrics.
Jason Klobnak
In this episode Jazz, host Steve Roby interviews trumpeter Jason Klobnak, the leader of J’s Ruckus . They delve into Jason's impressive music background, discussing his early days playing in church and community jazz organizations.
Tierney Sutton Tamir Hendelman
This episode features an engaging conversation between host Steve Roby, Grammy-nominated singer Tierney Sutton, and jazz pianist Tamir Hendelman.
Aldo Pantoja
In this episode, host Steve Roby interviews Aldo Pantoja, the lead singer of Don Chicharrón, Denver's only chicha band. Aldo explains the origins and influences of chicha music, a style of cumbia from Peru that blends elements of punk, surf, jazz, and salsa.
Eddie Henderson
When a jazz musician rolls into Denver for a performance, it's not often that a documentary film and immersive art exhibition await them. But jazz-great Eddie Henderson is no ordinary musician, nor has he led an ordinary life.
Lowdown Brass Band
This interview features Shane Jonas (trumpet and lead vocals) and MC Billa Camp of the LowDown Brass Band. It covers the band’s unique sound, their influences, the band members, their history, their upcoming single and album..
Black Violin
The genre-blending classical hip-hop duo Black Violin has been smashing stereotypes for the last 20 years. Their stage presence is electric, and they’ll be playing a show at Denver’s Paramount Theater on Sunday, February 4th..
Albert Castiglia: New Solo Album and Oriental Theatre Concert
Blues guitarist Albert Castiglia paid his dues by backing blues legends like Junior Wells, Pinetop Perkins, and Otis Clay. He’s also won numerous awards, including Blues Rock Album of the Year. Music journalist Steve Roby got this exclusive interview for KGNU Radio.
Joe Farnsworth: Straight From The Soul
One of the most highly regarded jazz drummers today, Joe is known for his blazing speed, precision, musical and melodic playing.
Emmet Cohen on his Latest Release
This episode features an interview with award-winning jazz pianist and composer Emmet Cohen. We discussed his current release, Master Legacy Series Vol. 5, and his upcoming concert at the Newman Center for the Performing Arts on Saturday, February 3.
Aoife O’Donovan
Music journalist Steve Roby interviewed Grammy-award-winning singer Aoife O’Donovan for KGNU radio. She discussed her new single, “Daughters,” from the forthcoming album All My Friends, inspired by the 19th Amendment, and her upcoming tour with Hawktail. She shared the album’s message of womanhood and civic engagement, expressing excitement for her Denver show at Gates Concert Hall on Saturday, March 30th.
A Word With Guitarist Stanley Jordan
As a lifelong Hendrix fan, historian, and biographer, I was excited to learn that jazz guitarist Stanley Jordan was performing a Hendrix tribute concert, and it was happening on the Big Island. I remember buying Jordan’s debut album, Magic Touch, in 1985 and noticing his interpretation of Hendrix’s emotional tune “Angel” as one of the tracks. Jordan’s double-handed tapping technique gave the song new life 14 years after Hendrix fans first heard it.
A Word With Jazz Pianist Christian Sands
Christian Sands is currently one of the most sought-after pianists in jazz. A native of New Haven, Connecticut, Sands was exposed to a diverse range of music from a young age. By his early teens, he was a protégé of renowned jazz educator Dr. Billy Taylor and took lessons from Dave Brubeck. Most jazz enthusiasts recognize him as a captivating presence in bands led by bassist Christian McBride, who followed a similar rise to fame around the time Sands was born.
Talking Story With Tommy Emmanuel
Emmanuel performs hundreds of sold-out shows annually across Nashville, Sydney, and London. Throughout his career, Emmanuel has been craving what’s next. Recognized globally as the master of the solo acoustic guitar, his next move is to release an album featuring collaborations with some of the best singers, songwriters, and guitarists.
Talking Story with Grammy-Award Winning Singer Lisa Fischer
In addition to touring with The Stones as a backup singer for 26 years, Fischer has had an outstanding career, performing with artists like Luther Vandross, Sting, and Tina Turner. Fischer is also a key artist featured in the Oscar-winning documentary film 20 Feet from Stardom – you may have seen the free screening at the Kahilu last Friday. The film explores the behind-the-scenes life of backup singers like Fischer and others.
Talking Story with Reggae Legend Derrick “Duckie” Simpson
Before Friday’s show, I had the opportunity to interview Derrick “Duckie” Simpson, who also uses the nickname “Gong Gong Gullie.” He’s the founder and leader of Black Uhuru, one of the most recognized and prolific reggae bands for over 50 years. This was their third tour of Hawaii in two years, and their 2018 release, As The World Turns, is their first new album in 15 years.
Talking Story with Jazz Pianist Laurence Hobgood
Laurence Hobgood is one of the most accomplished jazz pianists working today. The talented musician is noted for his nearly 20-year collaboration with singer Kurt Elling, a combination that garnered 10 Grammy nominations. He’s also a top-notch jazz pianist, composer, arranger, and producer, as well as a Yamaha artist and Grammy winner for his 2009 CD, Dedicated To You: Kurt Elling Sings The Music Of Coltrane And Hartman.
Talking Story With Judy Collins
Judy Collins has inspired audiences with exquisite vocals, boldly vulnerable songwriting, personal life victories, and a strong dedication to social activism. In the 1960s, she embodied both the idealism and unwavering determination of a generation united against social and environmental injustices. Fifty years later, her brilliance continues to shine as new generations enjoy the glow of her legendary 50-album catalog and draw inspiration from her discipline to succeed in the music business for half a century.
Talking Story with Livingston Taylor
From Top-40 hits, “I Will Be in Love with You” and “I’ll Come Running,” to “I Can Dream of You” and “Boatman,” the last two recorded by his brother James, Livingston’s creative output has continued unabated. His musical knowledge has inspired a varied repertoire, and he is equally at home with a range of musical genres—folk, pop, gospel, jazz—and from upbeat storytelling and touching ballads to full orchestra performances.
