Jazz on the Tube "gets it"

When I lived in Europe in the '80's I saw programs on  BBC TV that were truly American, but never shown in the US. I saw speeches from Dr. King, and others, that only the BBC dared to show. Just as important to me, however, was that I saw Jazz. Live recordings! I'm talking Miles & Trane just standing next to each other in the studio.

I was blown away. And then, fast forward to a couple of years ago and I get an email from,

Hiromi 2011 Newport Jazz festival

I was first introduced to this classically trained Japanese piano phenom about five years ago while working as Program Host for the Evening Jazz Program at wncu.org.

I was intrigued by duet work with Chick Corea in Tokyo when

Hiromi 2011 Newport Jazz festival

Sunday Nights at El Caribe in Panama City

If you get the chance to visit Restaurante El Caribe on Via Argentina in El Cangrejo, Panama City, just show up and enjoy the food, music and atmosphere. You be well pleased.

On my first visit, I found the authentic Caribbean and Costenan cuisine to be superb. The music was Jazz with Reggie Boyce's group, Jazz Effects(http:jazzeffects.com), and

"I Love Myself When I'm Laughing", the new single from Lenora Zenzalai Helm

I first fell in love with Lenora Zenzalai Helm's music, and singing style, about ten years ago. She was performing at the Hayti Heritage Center, in Durham, NC. in 2002.

I have followed her over the years, playing her music on my Jazz program, interviewing her, and ultimately working with her as narrator on her latest Youtube video promo.

Internationally acclaimed, Chicago native Lenora Zenzalai Helm is an award winning

Lenora Zenzalai Helm, a life in music. See it now.

Ellis Marsalis Trio at the 2010 PJF Jan 14, 2010

I was anticipating the performance of New Orleans Jazz icon, Ellis Marsalis at the PJF on Thursday night, Jan 14, 2010, and he did not disappoint. I had already seen Wynton, Branford, Defayo and Jason in concert. This was my first time seeing the family patriarch.

A long time supporter of the PJF, this was Mr. Marsalis's first