The Afternoon Cruise: Recent Episodes
Jazz88
Interviews, features, and studio sessions originally aired on The Afternoon Cruise with Sean McPherson, weekdays from 3 to 7 p.m. CT.
Saxophonist Tony Exum Jr. will be in the Twin Cities November 15 performing at the Sheraton Bloomington Hotel in Edina at 6pm. MN Smooth Jazz Vibes founder Stephanie Calloway and Tony Exum Jr. talk with Manny Hill about the upcoming event, and what attendees can expect to experience. Tony also shares a little about his background and how he got into Jazz.
Since it's founding in 1985, The Dakota has become a linchpin of the music world. The Dakota's founder, Lowell Pickett, has been at the helm since the beginning and the journey from it's beginnings as a no-cover, all local music spot to one of the premier performance venues in the world has been miraculous, but also serendipitous. Pickett shares stories from the club's beginnings, shines light on the Minnesota music scene that is still so central to its success, and looks ahead to the 40 year anniversary block party coming up on Saturday, September 20.
Pianist Yuko Mabuchi is bringing her trio to the Selby Ave Jazz Fest for a performance on Saturday, September 13. Mabuchi, who hails from Japan but is based in L.A., was nice enough to connect with Sean McPherson and talk about her trio, her repertoire and her love of improvisation.
B offerings would permit. Lawrence El, so often the architect of these Mintroludes, decided he would call in the members of Mint Condition and friends and flesh those short tunes out into full on songs. The group will do just that on Monday, September 15 for two shows over at Icehouse. Special guests include: Stokley, Cory Henry, O’Dell, Ricky Kinchen, Jeffrey Allen, Keri Lewis, David Ginyard Jr and Kavyesh Kaviraj, Chris 'Daddy' Dave and more. Lawrence El was nice enough to visit our studios to discuss his musical journey and what inspired him to organize this concert.
After completing the long drive from the Upper Peninsula back to the Twin Cities, trumpet player and composer Adam Meckler was happy to pop in the booth at Jazz88 and discuss his upcoming gigs at Berlin on Friday, August 15. Meckler also talked about his upcoming record "Sampled" which drops in November. Meckler also shared what he and the rest of the team from the Michigan Technological University do to support their jazz students in Michigan.
Professional pianist Abebi Stafford and student saxophonist Sam Stauning stopped by the Jazz88 studios to talk about the fundraiser concert the MN Hard Bop Collective is hosting on Monday, August 11. The concert will feature a student ensemble with Stauning alongside pianist Basil Saathoff and guitarist Kyle Baxter. The concert will also feature a professional performance with Abebi Stafford on organ, Jesse Simon on drums and Ian Duerr on guitar. Stafford and Stauning discussed navigating a rhythm section free performance and also reflected upon the skills one can learn performing in a casual setting like the Sit-In Series.
The celebrated multi-instrumentalist Dosh dreamed big a couple years ago when he put together the Larry Schaefer Memorial Orchestra. This fully improvised 12-piece unit has been performing for a handful of years and Dosh is ready to bring the show to Palmer's on the West Bank for a show this Saturday. The orchestra will be joined by LA Buckner, Little Lizard and more. Dosh was nice enough to stop by the Jazz88 studios and talk about the new project and the upcoming concert. He also took time to celebrate Palmer's, a venue with a 100+ year history that is closing its doors in Mid-September.
The legendary guitarist Mark Whitfield is making his way back to the Twin Cities for a set at the Lakeside Guitar Festival. Whitfield is no stranger to Minnesota, having played here frequently at the beginning of his career when he was touring with Brother Jack McDuff. Whitfield covered the details of the trio he's traveling with, his reverence and love for education and his approach to improvising even when playing solo.
Abinnet Berhanu and Yohannes Tona are elite musicians who can cover a lot of ground musically. But, given that they are both Ethiopian-Americans, they bring a lot of passion for Ethiopian music into our scene. After many successful individual efforts, the duo decided to reach out to a likeminded L.A. musician, Kibrom Birhane, and form a new group. ENGOCHA premieres this Friday and Saturday at Icehouse in MPLS. The group breaks new ground in the world of Ethiojazz with a number of originals and they will also add some classics from the genre to the playlist. Abinnet and Yohannes were nice enough to stop by the Jazz88 studios to talk about this new project.
JC Sanford, the organizer of the Northfield Jazz Festival, swung by the studios of Jazz88 to discuss the 2025 installment of the festival, which takes place July 11-13. The event is only its second year, but it's already tripled in size. Sanford and co will host events from Friday evening all the way to Sunday evening. Listen to find out more about the Northfield Jazz Fest and this year's headlining artists, Miguel Zenon and Luis Perdomo.
Joan Hutton from Take that Back was nice enough to visit the Jazz88 studios in anticipation of their upcoming performance at Taste of MN this weekend (Sunday July 6 at 5:45). Hutton was joined by Stephanie Wiesler, who is filling in on sax and flute for Sue Orfield. The duo discussed the upcoming gig, the joys and difficulties of subbing in and the fun of playing outside!
Toussaint Morrison is a journalist, an actor and a recording artist. This Friday, Toussaint is premiering five new music videos and a live set of all new music at the Green Room in Minneapolis. The event is in celebration of his forthcoming new album, Shapeshifter. Morrison took the time to visit with Sean from Jazz88 to discuss his love of jazz and share a couple of his personal favorites.
Pianist and composer Emmet Cohen will be back in the Twin Cities to play at the Twin Cities Jazz Festival on Friday, June 20 at 8:30 with his trio and the Four Freshmen. Cohen took a break this week to catch up with Sean McPherson and talk about his latest studio release and what he still keeps on reaching for in the world of music.
Saxophonist Steve Cole is a Mack Avenue recording artist based in the Twin Cities preparing for a show at the Dakota on Saturday, June 14. Cole checked back in with Jazz88 to talk about his recent studio album "Without a Doubt" and the fun he's having with his band of Twin Cities heavyweights.
Bassist and composer Ted Olsen is back with a new disc titled Violette. The album comes out on June 6 and he is celebrating the release at the Cedar Cultural Center on Wednesday, June 11. Eric Mayson will be opening that show with a set. Olsen was nice enough to stop by Jazz88's studios to discuss the album. During the visit he did a portrait photo shoot with North High sophomore Devin Frelix.
Dayna Martinez is gearing up for a busy June but she took some time to visit Jazz88 and talk about the upcoming Twin Cities Jazz Festival. Festival events begin on June 19 with the main action happening June 20-21. Martinez talked about performances and masterclasses that she's excited about and she provided some tips on how to go even deeper with Jazz Festival activities.
Vocalist Connie Evingson is getting ready to do her final performance at the Woman’s Club. Next Wednesday, May 28 Connie and Lori Dokken are co-presenting a concert titled “Our Hearts Will Go On." The event features an incredible list of Twin Cities talent such as Mary Jane Alm, Doug Anderson, Ginger Commodore, Lori Dokken, Joan Griffith, Jennifer Grimm, Rachel Holder, Patty Peterson, T. Mychael Rambo, Emily Rubbelke, Erin Schwab, Dane Stauffer, Judi Vinar, Charmin Michelle and more. In addition to this star studded lineup, it is commendable that this performance benefits two current Woman’s Club tenants: Involve MN and Project DIVA International. The funds will help them secure a new physical space for their organizations. Connie visited Jazz88 to discuss her plans for the concert with Afternoon Cruise host Sean McPherson.
2025 marks the centenary year of Malcolm X's birth. For the occasion, Dr. Rose Brewer, Thandisizwe Jackson-Nisan and additional planners have organized an event uplifting the politics and vision of Malcolm X. The event is on Saturday, May 17 at UROC at Plymouth and Oliver. The event is described in the promotional materials as gathering of "conscious minds that will include panel discussion, break out groups and vegan food!"
Dr. Rose Brewer is a Morse Alumni Distinguished Teaching Professor and Past Chair Person of the Department of African American and African Studies at the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities. She took the time to hop on a ZOOM with Sean McPherson from Jazz88 to talk about the event, provide some modern context for X's impact and point listeners to some additional material if they want to learn more about Malcolm X.
Michael Bland is a musical powerhouse who calls the Twin Cities home. He is best known for his tenure as the drummer for Prince, but he has been a part of so many great moments in Twin Cities music. This Saturday, Bland will be diving back into the music of Prince for a show titled “New Power Generation – A Tribute To Prince." The show is this Saturday at the Hopkins Center For the Arts at 8pm. Bland connected with Jazz88's Sean McPherson to talk about his approach to Prince's music and his familial connection to his fellow New Power Generation bandmates.
Friends of the station Thomas and Alex Streitz are celebrating the launch of their new non-profit, The Minnesota Poets Collective. The group celebrates the art of poetry in all its forms and seeks to bring together diverse voices from all around the state of Minnesota. The father/son duo were nice enough to stop by the Jazz88 studios to talk about their upcoming publications and their mission to connect with Minnesota poets.
Grammy-nominated drummer, vocalist and producer Kassa Overall is bringing his approach full circle with a performance at The Dakota on Wednesday night. Some of Overall's earliest professional experiences were traveling with Geri Allen, Wallace Roney and others in very formal jazz bandstand settings. On Wednesday, Overall will bring all the enthusiasm and adventurousness that he's known for into a seated nightclub performance. Kassa Overall will also be premiering some new sounds that will be part of his next release and will be joined by the celebrated musician, and recent Twin Cities transplant, Melvin Gibbs.
Somali blues & American gospel have a conversation in a show coming to the St. Thomas University campus (St. Paul) Sunday, April 6 and Saint John's University (Collegeville) April 27. Bobby Vandell spoke with the organizers JD Steele, Ahmed Yusuf and Beck Lee. Details at https://culturalfluencyinitiative.org/events/
Judi Vinar is a singer's singer. Her skills and her collaborative spirit have made her an in-demand vocalist and vocal instructor nationwide. She dropped by Jazz88 to discuss her upcoming shows with Dennis Spears and the Wolverines Jazz Trio at The Capri Theater on Saturday, April 5 and Sunday, April 6. Vinar talked about maintaining her calm, her longtime collaborators the Wolverines and more.
Trombonist Ryan Keberle is making his way back through town for a performance at Berlin on April 11 with his group Reverso. Keberle was nice enough to catch up with Jazz88 and talk about Reverso as well as his other projects, Colectivo De Brasil and Catharsis. Keberle also shared his thoughts about writing memorable melodies and introduced us to his sleepy dog Stitch.
Singer Yazmin Bowers is also a pianist, painter, dancer and teacher. She's also quite the World traveler spending a lot of her time in Havana, Cuba where she teaches music and culture and eventually incorporating her own experiences into her own music. With her heart and soul ultimately coming from her Midwestern roots, it's always a delight to hear what she's up to musically and how her recent collaborations with the Twin Cities' own, Havana Quartet beart fruit.
We were lucky enough to have Yazmin along with Alvaro and Andrew from her group join us on the Afternoon Cruise to tell us more about what they've been up to and what to expect from her show at Crooners.
Shabaka is one of the most vital voices working in music today. For the past decade he has been heralded as one of the strongest and most imaginative saxophonists and bandleaders in jazz. The past handful of years have seen Shabaka turn his focus towards the flute. But his mission of creating "the best music possible" remains unchanged. Shabaka caught up with Sean McPherson to discuss his approach in advance of his appearance at The Walker on Thursday, March 20.
Black Market Brass and Obi Original are two of the most respected names in Minnesota music and now they have teamed up for a collaborative release. Obi is the featured vocalists on the new single "Battle Ready" from Black Market Brass. Vocalist Obi Original along with Mitch Sigurdson (guitar) and David Tullis (congas) swung by the Jazz88 studios to talk about the new music and the release show on Saturday, March 22 at the Turf Club.
Adrian Younge is a prolific and gifted musician, producer, performer and curator who has been at the helm of the Jazz is Dead project alongside his partner Ali Shaheed Mohammed since 2017, releasing collaborative albums with legends like Brian Jackson, Azymuth, Jean Carne, Tony Allen and more. Younge is on the road for his Something About April Tour with a stop at the Turf Club in Saint Paul on Friday March 14. Younge connected with Sean from Jazz88 to discuss the tour and the Jazz is Dead project.
Bobby Commodore has been an indispensable part of the Twin Cities music scene since he sat behind the kit with Sounds of Blackness in 1974. During tenures with Sounds of Blackness, Moore by Four and many other great groups, Commodore served the Twin Cities. Beyond his work behind the kit, Bobby Commodore has served as a business manager, a live sound engineer and, most importantly, as a supportive voice to generations of Twin Cities players. As Commodore prepares to hang up his cymbal bag and retire from live performances, he was nice enough to visit with Sean McPherson from Jazz88 to discuss his farewell concert on Tuesday, March 4 at the Dakota as well as his storied career.
Bobby Commodore has been an indispensable part of the Twin Cities music scene since he sat behind the kit with Sounds of Blackness in 1974. During tenures with Sounds of Blackness, Moore by Four and many other great groups, Commodore served the Twin Cities. Beyond his work behind the kit, Bobby Commodore has served as a business manager, a live sound engineer and, most importantly, as a supportive voice to generations of Twin Cities players. As Commodore prepares to hang up his cymbal bag and retire from live performances, he was nice enough to visit with Sean McPherson from Jazz88 to discuss his farewell concert on Tuesday, March 4 at the Dakota as well as his storied career.
Drummer and composer Emma Garau is performing on Monday, March 3 at Berlin in Minneapolis with Bryan Nichols (piano) and Chris Bates (bass). Garau recently moved to town from North Carolina and she discussed how she is enjoying the Twin Cities so far. She also explained her approach to making music and connecting her love of classic jazz to her more avant-garde side.
Gabe Terraciano is one of the most celebrated violinists from the jazz world and tonight he's stepping on stage at Berlin with Minneapolis players Greg Byers on cello and Geoff LeCrone on guitar. Tarraciano and Byers stopped by the Jazz88 studios to talk about the show and the importance of rhythm for string players.
In addition to being a stellar leader, saxophonist and vocalist Lucia Sarmiento has also toured with Pitbull and Karol G. and collaborated with many of the biggest names in music. This weekend, Sarmiento is celebrating the release of her debut album as a leader, Escape. Lucia stopped by to visit Jazz88 to talk about the new album and her process.
Terrell X, the improvisational jazz human beatboxer, is preparing to perform selections from his most recent album, Transformation to Terrell X, with a live band on Saturday at Antonello Hall at MacPhail. In addition to being an in-demand performer, X also serves as an instructor in Electronic Music Recording Arts Program at MacPhail. Terrell X, also known as Carnage the Executioner, discussed his personal journey, his connection to jazz music and his advice for anyone who is struggling to tell their own story.
The players in Room3 are keeping busy. After building up a reputation in the past handful of years for electrifying live shows the band has finally released some recorded material and they're preparing for a performance on Friday, January 31 at First Ave as part of the Best New Bands concert. Keyboardist Eli Awada and bassist Beck Madson stopped by our studios to chat about their new single, Moqueca, and about the big show coming up this weekend.
After years of sessions and casual collaborations, trumpet player Omar Abdul-Karim and pianist Kavyesh Kaviraj have forged a collaborative project. The quartet, which also features Ted Olsen on bass and Kevin Washington on drums, will perform on Tuesday, January 28 at the Dakota. Sean McPherson from the Afternoon Cruise caught up with the duo to get a sense of how this collaboration came about and how they're enjoying it!
On January 14, Sean McPherson from Jazz88 headed down to Whitey's Old Town Saloon in Northeast Minneapolis to check out a weekly Tuesday jam session helmed by bassist Graydon Peterson. Check out audio of the jam session, details about how to get involved and interviews with key players from the night.
Percussionist Bill Summers described music as a "religious undertaking" when he connected with Jazz88's Sean McPherson to discuss the recent Headhunters record and their upcoming performance at the Dakota. Summers was joined by their drummer Mike Clark and the conversation covered iconic moments from Headhunters history, the group's current lineup and their concern for musicians who are suffering after the Los Angeles fires.
The celebrated vocalist Bruce Henry is back in town to perform a concert on Saturday at the Dakota titled "Everyone Under the Sun: A Celebration of Unity and Love." Henry connected with Sean McPherson to discuss how he and the band will use Martin Luther King Jr. as a point of departure to build community with the audience.
Before Stanley Jordan was a household name he was getting his career started with Madison, Wisconsin as his homebase. The young player made routine trips up to the Twin Cities and he credits the Twin Cities as the first major metro area where he built up a fanbase. Even though Jordan can now command a crowd in every corner of the planet he's quick to come back to the Twin Cities, specifically the Dakota. He's holding court there on Thursday and he took the time to chat with Sean McPherson about his love of the Twin Cities, his approach to playing solo and his celebrated and unorthodox guitar technique.
Pianist Bryan Nichols is embarking on a new chapter in his musical life. On Saturday he launches a new quintet to navigate his original compositions. He'll be joined by Sophia Kickhofel (sax), Jake Baldwin (trumpet), Dan Carpel (bass) and JT Bates (drums). The group premieres at Berlin and he was nice enough to stop by Jazz88 and chat with Sean McPherson about the new lineup and his approach to collaborating with new players and how to stay committed to being a lifelong student of music.
Reid Anderson, the co-founder and the bassist for The Bad Plus, recently connected with Sean McPherson's Jazz88 for a chat. Anderson discussed the new album from The Bad Plus and their upcoming run of shows starting on Christmas Day at the Dakota.
Vocalists Toussaint Morrison and Roz Prickel are deep into the world of holiday music. They are in rehearsals for their Sno Ball event on Saturday at PNA Hall in Northeast. They swung by the Afternoon Cruise to chat about their favorite holiday music, their love of all things pickle and their upcoming show.
Vocalist Bruce A. Henry is back in town for a holiday performance with the JazzMN Orchestra. Though Henry didn't sing holiday music for the first half of his career, he reconnected with the canon during a holiday show at a shopping mall in Colorado and hasn't looked back since. In the interview Henry shared how he navigates the big band setting and the holiday songbook. The JazzMN Orchestra presents "Swingin' in the Season" at the Chanhassen Dinner Theatre on Monday December 9 with Henry and vocalist Connie Evingson.
Jazz88 connected with Windom, Minnesota's own Maria Schneider on her birthday to celebrate her Grammy-laden career and her continued connection to Minnesota but Schneider wanted to talk about was the new anthem she's written for her hometown team, the Vikings. Supported by her orchestra's trombone section and the beefiest baritones Julliard has to offer, Schneider's tune is bound to secure the Vikes the top slot in the NFC North. Check out the conversation and the tune here and SKOL VIKINGS.
The New Standards are a jazz-adjacent trio featuring John Munson (bass and vocals), Chan Poling (piano and vocals), and Steve Roehm (vibes). Though the group has plenty of rock'n'roll pedigrees on their resume, all the members have a deep love and knowledge of jazz. The New Standards rely on that love of jazz and the song suggestions they receive from their musical guests to craft a celebrated annual holiday show. This year the concerts are at the State Theatre on December 6 and 7th, including a matinee on the 7th.
This month Crooners Supper Club celebrates their ten year anniversary. Jazz88 caught up with their Music Director, Jennifer Grimm, to talk about the club's history, it's triumphant series of outdoor concerts during the pandemic and the importance of having clubs that serve as a listening rooms. This weekend on Sunday Jazz88's own Patty Peterson will revisit the Crooners stage after having served as the first performer at the venue on November 20, 2014.
Guitarist Zacc Harris is back with Chasing Shadows, the follow-up to his well-received 2021 effort Small Wonders. In the summer of 2022 Harris took an opportunity to get away to a cabin for five days sans family and with nothing specific on the agenda. During the retreat Harris found his way into about twenty new songs, eight of which can be heard on this new record. The resulting performance exude some of the curious and patient spirit so many find when they spend a couple days away from the grind. Harris discussed the writing and recording of the album with Jazz88's Sean McPherson. Harris and company will be celebrating the release of the new album on Friday November 15 at Berlin in Minneapolis.
Oogie_Push is from the Meskwaki Nation and is currently creating on Dakota territory, aka the Twin Cities. She’s an actor, writer, storyteller, dancer, a Meskwaki twine bag weaver, a production assistant and an award-winning documentarian. She is the playwright and lead performer for the Full Circle Production “The Adventures of a Traveling Meskwaki”. The show opens this evening (Friday November 8) at the Park Square Theatre in downtown Saint Paul and it runs through November 24th.
Broadcaster and Grammy-nominated performer Judy Carmichael is coming back to the Twin Cities for a performance at the O'Shaugnessy in Saint Paul on Saturday, November 16. She's no stranger to listeners of Jazz88 as we carry her show "Judy Carmichael's Jazz Inspired" on Monday nights at 10pm. She connected with Sean McPherson from Jazz88 to discuss her development as a piano player and how vital her connections with originators in the world of jazz like Count Basie were in the early years of her career.
Bassist Erik Fratzke from Happy Apple was nice enough to stop by the Jazz88 studio to discuss the group's new studio album New York CD. It's the group's first release in 17 years and Fratzke talked about the life cycle of the band and the beautiful rapport and camaraderie the group is enjoying as they hit the 25 year mark. Happy Apple is celebrating the vinyl release of New York CD this weekend with shows on Friday and Saturday November 8 and 9 at the Dakota in Minneapolis.
On the week of the release of MaLLy and Last Word's new album "The Sweetest of It All" MaLLy took some time to connect with Jazz88 to discuss his love of jazz. MaLLy's artform is hip-hop but his sources for inspiration run way deeper. He discussed how jazz can invite him to listen deeply, to relax and to celebrate Black culture in general. Listen in as MaLLy discusses some of his personal favorite jazz tracks with Sean McPherson.
Jesse Simon from the MN Hard Bop Collective grew up loving organ jazz out in Denver, Colorado so when it came to for the MN Hard Bop Collective to add more events to their sit-in series it was no surprise that Simon decided to concentrate on the organ. The series will draw inspiration from the legendary organist Shirley Scott. The MN Hard Bop Collective is launching a new weekly Sit-In Series event on Wednesdays from 4:30-5:30 at Metronome in Saint Paul. The group already holds court for their original Sit In Series at Metronome on Mondays at 7pm. Both events give jazz players of every age and ability level the opportunity to play with professional musicians and experience the exhilaration of 'sitting in' on a tune.
Vocalist Dane Stauffer visited the Afternoon Cruise to discuss his upcoming Monstrous Melodies Cabaret at the Dakota. Though Dane said he wasn't sure if any of the performance was legitimately "scary" he assured us it was lots of fun. He even brought along a rehearsal recording which sounded like a lot of fun. The Monstrous Melodies Cabaret event happens on Halloween night at the Dakota.
Bassist Liz Draper has been running a residency at Berlin for October and she's wrapping it up on Sunday, October 27 with her friend Ava Mendoza. Mendoza is a celebrated guitarist and composer based in Brooklyn and her friendship with Draper goes back almost 25 years. Liz spoke about her approach to improvising on the bass, her recent experience with playing through-composed music. Mendoza spoke about her forthcoming solo guitar and voice record, The Circular Train, and discussed her approach to composing on the guitar.
Mike Lewis, the celebrated multi-instrumentalist known for his work with Happy Apple, Fat Kid Wednesdays and Alpha Consumer, connected with Jazz88 to discuss the run of shows he'll be doing in November at Icehouse. Lewis highlighted some of the artists he'll be collaborating with like Anthony Cox, S. Carey and Jeremy Yvilsaker. He also discussed his approach to choosing his musical opportunities wisely.
Mere days away from releasing their sophomore album "NORFSIDE" drummer L.A. Buckner and his bandmates from BiG HOMiE are ready to celebrate an album that's been years in the making. Buckner, alongside David Smith and percussionist Jamani Buckner, spoke about the songwriting process, the importance of releasing the album at an iconic venue (the Capri Theater) in an iconic part of Minneapolis (the Northside) and the importance of celebrating the release in the heart of Black Minnesota. The release show is on Friday October 18 at the Capri Theater in Minneapolis.
Celebrated Danish vocalist Sinne Eeg is making her way to the Twin Cities for a show at Crooners on Thursday, October 17. Eeg was nice enough to hop on the phone with Sean from the Afternoon Cruise to talk about her upcoming performance at Crooners and about how she approaches singing with different size groups!
Obi Original is an accomplished musician/composer and vocalist. Obi agreed to come by to discuss one of his musical heroes, Fela Kuti. Fela was born October 15, 1938 and he, alongside his drummer Tony Allen, is recognized as one of the architects of the Afrobeat genre. Listen in to hear Obi Original's reflections on Fela's influence and importance.
The internationally acclaimed vocalist Samarth Nagarkar is bringing his Khayal Ensemble to MacPhail for a performance on Saturday October 12. In advance of the concert Mr. Nagarkar and Michael Cain, the Director of Electronic Music Recording Arts at MacPhail connected with Jazz88 via ZOOM to discuss the concert, the improvisational traditions of North Hindustani music and the connections to jazz and other aural/oral traditions around the globe.
Joel Shapira is always out there playing. He's out playing in town four or five times a week. But behind the scenes Shapira is always working on his own material. Joel came through the Jazz88 studios to discuss his new record "Sleepless Montage" and the release party coming up on Thursday, October 3 at Berlin in Minneapolis.
Violinist Ernest Bisong from Walker-West visited Jazz88 to talk about the new season of the Rondo Community Music Series. The series launches this Saturday (9/28) and rolls through to May with concerts from Kavyesh Kaviraj, Kevin Washington and RA Spirit, Katia Cardenas, Trio Zenia and more. Bisong shared his philosophy for recruiting the right artists, keeping the series accessible and involving workshops and panel discussions into the offerings.
Drummer and bandleader L.A. Buckner lovingly describes fellow drummer/bandleader Brandon Commodore as the "big homie". These two great drummers and bandleaders have years of history and the love will come through loud and clear on Saturday at Crooners when they share a bill. In their visit with Jazz88 Commodore pointed out that not only is it great to see two drummer/bandleaders sharing a bill but also pointed out that seeing two Black drummers who both hail from Minneapolis sharing a bill together is a beautiful thing. Listen to hear more about these dynamic players, their bass drum preferences and the range of emotions they share on stage with their groups BiG HoMiE (Buckner) and NRG (Commodore).
Voz En Punto, the wildly talented acapella group out of Mexico City visited Jazz88 on Monday September 16. It was a beautiful coincidence that the group was visiting on Mexican Independence Day. Voz En Punto is visiting the Twin Cities in partnership with VocalEssence. The group talked about their thirty plus year history and performed two songs: Tilingolingo and La Negra.
Trombonist Dave Graf has been a fixture in the Twin Cities jazz scene for decades but he spends most of his time behind the scenes. That changes on Sunday when he steps out on the Crooners Main Stage leading a band that includes Jennifer Grimm (voice), Phil Hey (drums), Doug Haining (sax), Mary Louise Knutson (piano) and Matt Peterson (bass). Graf took the time to connect with Jazz88 to discuss his lengthy career and his approach to presenting his own music. Dave even stuck around to play a little jazz trivia!
Vocalist extraordinaire Samara Joy is coming to the Ordway on Saturday September 14. During a break in her schedule Samara Joy connected with Sean McPherson to discuss her technique for picking songs, her quick rise to become one of the biggest names in the world of jazz and her love of ensemble singing.
Celebrated vocalist Ashley DuBose took some time out of her day to chat about her songs, her love of jazz and her upcoming performance at the Selby Ave JazzFest on Saturday, September 14 in Saint Paul.
There are no names bigger in jazz than Louis Armstrong and Miles Davis. And for aspiring trumpet players it is essential learning to understand the careers and influences of these two icons. For Solomon Parham and Omar Abdulkarim the invitation to pay tribute to these icons at the Capri Theater in North Minneapolis gave them the opportunity to revisit two of the heroes they grew up studying. The duo visited Jazz88's Afternoon Cruise to talk about the show and Armstrong and Davis's oversized influence in the world of music.
The Marcin Wasilewski piano trio has been going for thirty years and their chemistry shines on and off stage. Tonight they're preparing for two shows at Berlin in the North Loop of Minneapolis. Sean McPherson connected with Marcin Wasilewski, Slawomir Kurkiewicz and Michal Miskiewicz to find out about their staying power, the Polish jazz scene and their love of Prince.
Like so many jazz performers, Davina discovered jazz music early on in her life through her father and has loved and studied the music ever since. Davina connected with Sean via phone in advance of her upcoming show at the Dakota to discuss some of her favorite songs including Fats Waller's rendition of "I'm Going To Write Myself a Letter".
Author and journalist Andrea Swensson visited the Afternoon Cruise alongside Youa Vang, the Vice-President of the Ramsey County Historical Society. Swensson will be doing a reading and signing of her new book "Deeper Blues: The Life, Songs and Salvation of Cornbread Harris" on September 12 at Springboard for The Arts for Ramsey County Historical Society's History Revealed Series. The book's subject, Cornbread Harris, will also make an appearance at the event. Listen to hear more context about Harris's remarkable life and Swensson's new book about that life.
A call from a storage unit manager lead George Benson down the path to releasing one of the most majestic and compelling albums of his entire career. Listen to George Benson in conversation with Sean McPherson as he reflects on the recording sessions that led up to this new release Dreams Do Come True.
Moore by Four is getting ready for a show this Friday over at Crooners. Members Ginger and Ashley Commodore stopped by to talk about the group's thirty plus year history and what gives them their staying power.
Twin Cities-based guitarist Pavel Jany and his Global Jazz Collegium are back with their latest disc, Labyrinth. Jany and many of the other members of the Collegium also work in the group Ticket to Brasil, but for this group, they follow their interests beyond Brazil and explore many of the international sounds that have become part of the jazz palette. Jany stopped in to connect with Sean McPherson and talk about the new release and discuss how the pandemic supercharged this passion project with new enthusiasm. They’ll be celebrating the release at MetroNOME Brewery on Sunday, August 4 at 6:30 PM.
Local mainstay and friend of the station Ginger Commodore came to visit Sean McPherson on Friday's Afternoon Cruise to discuss her new 4-show series "And the Melodies Still Linger On". The series launches on Thursday, August 1 at Crooners. Ms. Commodore discussed how she picks songs, accompanists and why she has been so focused on celebrating and expanding the Great American Songbook in the last handful of years.
Joyann Parker isn't one to slow down. Since finding blues and soul music in her mid thirties she has been on a campaign to learn, celebrate and perform Black American music. She's doing just that on Friday night at the Woman's Club in Minneapolis. She and Lori Dokken from the Woman's Club stopped by to chat about the concert with Sean from the Afternoon Cruise.
Bassist Greg Bryant is one half of the jazz duo Concurrence. On their new album, Indivisible, he and pianist Paul Horton use an entire toolbox of expression to tell the story of the impact of I-40 on Black neighborhoods in Nashville. Bryant, who hails from Nashville, discussed how he and Horton came to tell this story and how the music balances the shameful details of the highway and the optimistic and resilient response from the Black community in Nashville. Photo Credit: Giovanni Rodriguez
In his interview with Sean McPherson this week Kavyesh Kaviraj said he is running on "two batteries". His debut album as a leader, Fables, is a culmination of at least a year of work for Kaviraj and his team. For his visit to Jazz88, Kavyesh Kaviraj focused on how a half decade of work as a sideman laid the groundwork for his arrival as a leader.
Manny Hill is the Executive Producer of MPS Voices and one of his closest colleagues is Olive Norvell who serves as host and producer on MPS Voices. MPS Voices is a central hub for student and staff audio content for and from Minneapolis Public Schools. Learn more about MPS Voices' triumphant first year in this interview and check out the station at MPSVoices.com.
Choreographer Leslie Parker and musician DeCarlo Jackson have been working together in a larger group toward a Black Dance Improvisation concert coming up on Saturday at Cedar Cultural Center. The event is a part of the Twin Cities Jazz Festival and it represents the culmination of work done with a cast of dancers and many of Leslie Parker's mentors from the Twin Cities dance world. Listen to the conversation to hear about how this intensive workshop is the first of its kind in the Twin Cities and the way that Parker and DeCarlo have stretched themselves to present this concert.
Patty Peterson talked to saxophonist Claudia Medina as she talked about her life in Peru, her passion for jazz, and her appearances at the Twin Cities Jazz Festival. Not only did she have a concert on the main stage with her band but she was instrumental in leading the Walker West Women In Jazz Retreat and concert.
Trumpet player and composer, Ella Grace, joined Patty Peterson to talk about her upcoming performances at the Twin Cities Jazz Festival 2024. She is a part of the Walker West Women In Jazz Retreat, and will also be leading her own band at Metronome.
Damian Kulash, the singer and guitarist for Ok Go is getting ready for a show at First Ave on July 11 and he was eager to connect with Jazz88 and discuss how he has connected with jazz throughout his life. During his conversation with Sean McPherson, Kulash discussed the way jazz got him to focus on what is central to the power of music. The conversation focused in particular on New Orleans legend Snooks Eaglin's cover of "Careless Love".
In anticipation of their Courtyard Concert appearance at MIA on Thursday, June 20 Sean McPherson connected with artists Queen Drea, Pavielle and Tish Jones. In addition to hailing from the same part of Saint Paul (Rondo), Jones, Queen Drea and Pavielle have served as "co-conspirators" for decades at this point. Throughout the conversation the themes of Black liberation and shared history came to the fore. The interview also features portions of songs from Pavielle and Queen Drea.
The Grammy winning bassist Ben Williams is in the Twin Cities to play the "Black to Life" event at Schneider Theater on Friday June 14. Before he even got his checked baggage from the carousel he hopped on the phone to talk with Sean McPherson about how he has added producer, vocalist and leader to his already impressive resume and how it all connects to the legacy of Black music and his hometown of Washington, DC.
After studying at UW-Eau Claire and a stint in Chicago, Mike Wolter has firmly planted his flag in the Twin Cities jazz scene. This weekend he is celebrating the release of his band's debut album. The Early Planets release is called The Waits/In Between Music and alongside bassist Cody McKinney and drummer Cory Healey the crew has churned out a full length of Wolter originals. In the interview Wolter discussed how he arrived in the Twin Cities, what makes his relationship with the rest of the Early Planets so special and identifies some of his biggest guitar influences.
Joe Lovano connected with Sean McPherson from Jazz88 in anticipation of his performance at the Twin Cities Jazz Festival on Saturday June 22. Lovano and McPherson discussed Lovano's long running quartet, his legendary role in the Paul Motian Trio alongside Bill Frisell and Lovano's many great experiences in the Twin Cities including a show with the Woody Herman Orchestra back in the 1970s.
Since moving to the Twin Cities from the East Coast a handful of years ago, Abinnet Berhanu has become an essential part of the Twin Cities music scene. He's spent time supporting touring artists, playing countless jam sessions around the city and celebrating the music of Ethiopia with his group Andanet. This Saturday he brings an impressive group of players including Omar Abdulkarim and Joe Strachan to Elliot Park in Minneapolis for a 2pm Jazzclectic Concert. This outdoor series is family friendly and free of charge. Sean from Jazz88 caught up with Abinnet to find out about his musical endeavors in general and his plans for this concert in particular.
Celebrated vibraphonist and visionary Stefon Harris is making his way back to the Twin Cities for a headlining performance on the Jazz88 Mainstage at the Twin Cities Jazz Festival. In anticipation of his set of Friday June 21 Harris was kind enough to connect with Sean McPherson from Jazz88 and discuss his career, his purpose and his background.
Erin Schwab learned how to personalize a song from Bette Midler and this weekend at the Capri Theater in Minneapolis she and an all-star band are exploring Bette Midler's songbook. Schwab also brought along James Scott from the Capri to talk about their Capital Campaign and the upcoming Legends season.
Drummer and composer Kevin Washington is bringing his group, Ra Spirit, to the stage of Icehouse for a performance on Friday night. Washington stopped by Jazz88 to discuss the gig and discussed his policy for curating a show and keeping his musicians and the audience engaged with the material.
Jazz88 and MPS Voices host Olive Norvell recently connected with the team from Keane Sense of Rhythm to get the update on their celebration of National Tap Dance Day at Como Park Pavilion on Saturday May 25.
Iconic producer and musician Don Was is bringing his new project, The Pan-Detroit Ensemble, to the Dakota for two shows on Tuesday May 21. Though much of Was's work nowadays is working as the head of Blue Note Records he recognizes the importance of getting out and playing the music. In the conversation he confesses that "there's nothing like it". Listen to Don Was's conversation with Sean McPherson as he reflects on his life in music.
Atlanta-based pianist Joe Alterman hopped on the phone recently to catch up with Sean McPherson from Jazz88 about his upcoming show at Crooner's. Alterman discussed how a love of bluegrass brought him to his career in jazz and discussed the humor he sometimes finds in a player's dynamic range.
Ron Carter is THE bass player. He is the most recorded bass player in the history of jazz and he continues to deliver quality recording and performances as he prepares to celebrate his 87th birthday. Mr. Carter was nice enough to join Sean McPherson from the Afternoon Cruise on a short ZOOM to celebrate his birthday and talk about the many milestones in his sixty plus years as a professional bassist.
MPS Voices and Jazz88 host Olive Norvell recently connected over ZOOM with Kamasi Washington in anticipation of Washington's new album, Fearless Movement, and his upcoming show at the Fitzgerald Theater on May 11. They discussed his new record, his passion for music, his experience in scoring films and his feelings about pasta in general and spaghetti in particular.
On April 23, 2024 Cornbread Harris celebrated his 97th birthday. Ahead of his birthday festivities at Hook and Ladder on Thursday Harris took the time to chat with Sean McPherson from Jazz88 to talk about his life. Special thanks to Andrea Swensson for facilitating the interview.
On April 23, 2024 Cornbread Harris celebrated his 97th birthday. Ahead of his birthday festivities at Hook and Ladder on Thursday Harris took the time to chat with Sean McPherson from Jazz88 to talk about his life. Special thanks to Andrea Swensson for facilitating the interview.
On April 23, 2024 Cornbread Harris celebrated his 97th birthday. Ahead of his birthday festivities at Hook and Ladder on Thursday Harris took the time to chat with Sean McPherson from Jazz88 to talk about his life. Special thanks to Andrea Swensson for facilitating the interview.
Steve Cole is a big name in the world of smooth jazz and he has been based in the the Twin Cities for over fifteen years now. He's bringing his saxophone and his Super Band onto the stage of the Dakota for two shows on Friday, April 26. Cole dropped by the Jazz88 studio to talk about his recent Mack Avenue release "Without a Doubt" and what goes into getting ready for a run of shows with his band.
Bassist Anthony Cox joined Jazz88's Sean McPherson to discuss Charles Mingus and Paul Chambers on their birthday (April 22). As a fellow bass player Cox shared the influence these icons of the instrument had on his development as a bass player, including how catching a live performance from Charles Mingus shaped Cox's decision to pursue music as a career.
Twin Cities mainstay Jeremy Yvilsaker is curating Monday nights at Icehouse for the month of April and he's doing it with a simple philosophy: get really creative people to try out new ideas. The results have been a success for Jeremy so far, and he took a break from a van ride to Kansas City with Annie Humphrey for a gig opening for the Indigo Girls to chat about the series and what is in the works for the remaining Mondays.
March 28 is the 88th day of the year and Jazz88 is celebrating the piano! World Piano Day on Jazz88 is supported by Schmitt Music. Sean McPherson headed out to Schmitt Music today to learn a little bit more about the piano and it's staying power in the music world with Dr. Andy Fleser, the keyboard manager at Schmitt.
The trio Trigonal composed of Anthony Cox (Bass, Cello and Percussion), Davu Seru (Drums and Percussion) and Douglas R. Ewart (Winds, Percussion, Poetry and Invented Instruments) are preparing for a show on Saturday March 28 at the Cedar Cultural Center. For this event they will be joined by Sarah M. Greer on vocals. Sean McPherson from Jazz88 recently caught up Seru and Ewart from the group to discuss their history and their philosophy for creating music. During the interview you will also hear from Janis Ewart, a distinguished member of the music and radio community in the Twin Cities and a beloved former staff member at Jazz88.
Katia Cardenas is at the helm for Walker-West's "Women in Jazz Initiative". This Saturday the team is hosting a jazz workshop and jazz jam sessions with players like Mary Louise Knutson, Tasha Baron, BEth Varela and Sophia Kaufmann and more. Cardenas spoke about the importance of creating places to play and learn jazz that are focused around women.
Michael Cain, a gifted pianist, piano instructor and Director of Electronic Music and Recording Arts at MacPhail as well as the co-founder and CEO of Ekwe stopped by Jazz88 to discuss a concert he's throwing at Antonello Hall this Saturday with Yousif Sheronick, Barbara Cohen, JD Steele, Zacc Harris and more.
The celebrated singer-songwriter Valerie June is making her way to the Twin Cities for a performance this Saturday at Hopkins Center for the Arts. Sean McPherson caught up with Valerie June to find out about her performance process, her songwriting philosophy and her recent forays into public speaking.
Mary Halvorson is widely regarded as the most exciting guitarist of her generation. She continues to cement that reputation with her new Nonesuch release "Cloudward". On this record Halvorson endeavored to not "overwrite", leaving space for the instrumentalists to find their way on their terms. Halvorson discussed her approach, her philosophy and the way that she navigated exploring music as a career.
Minnesota based guitarist Cody Steinmann has been steadily releasing music with his trio which features Chris Bates on bass, Abbinet Berhanu on the drums. But for his next act Steinmann is bringing in some extra support. East Coast based tenor player JD Allen is coming through town for a number of engagements including a performance and recording session with Steinmann. Steinmann visited Jazz88 to talk about his upcoming whirlwind weekend with JD Allen and company.
Celebrated drummer JT Bates is getting back into the fold as a curator and booker. In addition to taking on more booking responsibilities at Icehouse in general, Bates is curating Mondays at Icehouse for the month of March. Listen to find out what Bates has planned for the long running curated Monday series at Icehouse.
Tina Schlieske has been a fixture in the Twin Cities music scene since the 1990s but this is the first time she's had a project so centered in jazz. On her new album "The Good Life" Schlieske performed classic numbers with some of the finest musicians in the Twin Cities jazz scene. Tina stopped in to chat with Sean McPherson about the new album and about the release show at Icehouse.
According to LA Buckner, he is putting "all his eggs into his own basket". After years of splitting his time as a sideman and as a leader he is focusing on taking LA Buckner and BiG HOMiE up to the next level. To that end, Buckner is making his debut as a leader at Crooners this Friday. Listen to find out what the plan is for the show on Friday.
Adi Yeshaya is an in-demand arranger and composer whose has done work for Whitney Houston, Prince, Lena Horne and more. In the Twin Cities Yeshaya might be best known for his longtime collaboration with Debbie Duncan. After Duncan's passing in 2020 Adi started to revisit the charts he had worked up during their decades of collaboration. With these arrangements and some new ones in hand, Yeshaya and his Jazz Orchestra are taking the stage of Crooners on Sunday February 25 at 6:30. Jennifer Grimm will be joining the Orchestra as the featured vocalist.
Starting his professional career in the late 70s and staying vital and relevant up to today, Kenny Garrett truly bridges generations as a jazz icon. Frequently recognized as the greatest alto player of his generation, Garrett is also a generational talent as a composer. Check out the conversation between Kenny Garrett and Sean McPherson as they discuss his upcoming shows at the Dakota on February 24 and his forthcoming album which is slated for an April release.
Though performing his own originals and doing tributes is still on the menu for Bruce A. Henry, in recent years he has gravitated towards shows where he explores facets of the African-American experience through music. Though educational, these performances are also engaging and electrifying. The key to maintaining that balance is Henry's personal investment in learning history from all corners of the world and synthesizing that into impassioned performance. Henry endeavors to do just that on Saturday February 17 with his new show “Watch That Star” – A Music Celebration of The African American Journey.
After a decade as one of the most celebrated instrumental groups in the Twin Cities, Purple Funk Metropolis is back in action for 2023. Fresh off a band vacation to Puerto Rico, the group is preparing to head back into the studio and get a couple shows on their calendar. Purple Funk Metropolis is getting ready for a show at The Dakota on February 26 and keyboardist Sam Rosenstone and saxophonist Andrew Tomten popped in to talk about a show and their plans for the year.
Wil B, one half of the hip-hop meets classical string duo Black Violin connected with Jazz88 in anticipation of their show on Saturday, February 10 at the State Theatre.
More than any other hip-hop producer, J. Dilla, born James Yancey February 7, 1974, has impacted how jazz musicians write and play today. His famously "drunken" drum programming, his singular approach to harmonization and his bass programming have all become part of the lexicon of modern jazz. To mark what would be Dilla's 50th birthday (he passed away from complications of a rare blood disease and Lupus in 2006) Sean McPherson connected with Jedidiah Jones and Kevin Gamble. In addition to being a broadcaster here on Jazz88 Jones is a music producer. Kevin Gamble is a popular keyboardist in the Twin Cities music scene as well as a producer. Listen to this episode to hear reflections on Dilla's impact, snippets of his productions and enthusiasm on where music is heading next!
Adam Levy is a career guitar player who has shared stages and recording studios with Norah Jones, Tracy Chapman, Meshell Ndegeocello and more. Listen to find out more about Levy's new album "Spry" and his approach to writing and playing.
The Sit In Series is a new program sponsored by the Minnesota Hard Bop Collective. The Sit In Series aims to provide a formal opportunity for middle school to college aged musicians to sit in or perform with professional musicians. Lead mentors Dale Alexander (piano) and Omar Abdulkarim (trumpeter) alongside mentee Bernadette Brownrigg Spray (vocals) stopped by the Afternoon Cruise to chat about the series. The next event is on Sunday February 4 at 6:30 at MetroNOME in St. Paul.
Dennis Spears is the longtime curator of the Legends Series at the Capri Theater. Spears was nice enough to visit Jazz88 on his "day off" to discuss the show he is putting up at the Capri this weekend. The focus for the concert is the legendary soul sounds of the 1960s and 1970s. In addition to talking about this concert, Dennis Spears also reflected on the staying power of this era of music.
Jazz88 is getting ready to launch their newest show, "The Jazz Impulse". Danny Sigelman will host the new show on Saturdays 7-10pm. This show will be about the "now". The artists stepping on stage that night, the music that's making this great jazz scene go strong. Sigelman joined Sean McPherson to talk about the show and the inaugural episode!
Saint Paul Peterson is a funk ambassador, gifted vocalist, bassist and a curator of the Funk Friday series. He’s been a member of the Family and The Time and he’s been a recognized fixture in the music world on an international level for decades. Saint Paul is bringing his online series, Funk Friday, onto the stage on Friday at the Green Room in Minneapolis. Jazz88 is sponsoring the event and broadcasting portions of it on the air. Check out this interview to get an overview of the Funk Friday series and learn what's happening on stage on Friday.
Jenny Klukken has been bridging the gap between her classical background and her passion for jazz on her primary instrument, the marimba, for years. She's back at it on Thursday night over at Crooners with an all-star band of Chris Olson (g), Chris Bates (b) and non-Chris Dave Schmalenberger (d). Klukken caught up with Sean from Jazz88 to discuss how marimba fits into the world of jazz and how her marimba fits into her minivan.
Chris Speed, saxophonist for The Bad Plus, recently connected with Sean McPherson to discuss The Bad Plus's upcoming residency at the Dakota, which starts on December 25 and runs until December 28.
Reid Anderson, co-founder and drummer for The Bad Plus, recently connected with Sean McPherson to discuss The Bad Plus's upcoming residency at the Dakota, which starts on December 25 and runs until December 28.
Joyann Parker is all in for the blues and for weighted blankets. As she travels the road as a celebrated blues musician she has been amassing a fan base across the Midwest and beyond. Check out the conversation to find out Joyann Parker's 2023 album "Roots", her holiday show at KJ's Hideaway and her New Year's Eve shows at Crooners.
Karrin Allyson and Rod Fleeman are never far from the holiday spirit. After sharing many a night on stage in Kansas City Allyson and Fleeman frequently travel together to bring their special brand of holiday cheer further afield. The duo were nice enough to stop by our studios today to serenade us with renditions of "Christmas Bells Are Ringing" and "Some of that Sunshine" plus some conversation.
DeCarlo Jackson is a shining light in the Twin Cities. He is a member of HEYARLO, Hippocampus and is a gifted trumpet player and bassist. After a viewing of the Spike Lee classic Mo' Better Blues, DeCarlo Jackson wanted to combine the thriving jazz scene in the Twin Cities with the thriving comedy scene in the Twin Cities. After connecting with Emma Dalenberg, the duo planted the seeds for RIFFS, which began out at Jazz Central Studios in October. The comedy/jazz collaboration continues this weekend with shows on Sunday December 17 and New Year's Eve at the Green Room in Uptown. Listen to hear how the collaboration got started and some of the high points so far!
Toussaint Morrison and Roz Prickel are no strangers to stages of all varieties. But after about a year of contemplation and a handful of weeks of intense work, the duo are ready to stage their debut holiday show. They'll be staging it at Northeast Social on Thursday and Friday December 14 and 15.
Joshua Redman recently released his Blue Note Records debut, "Where Are We". The album is much more lyrics heavy than Redman's previous outings and features Redman's maiden voyage as a lyric writer. The album is built around a collaboration between Redman and vocalist Gabrielle Cavassa as well as a top notch band featuring Aaron Parks, Joe Sanders and Brian Blade. Joshua Redman is scheduled for two shows at the Dakota on February 6 of 2024.
We are stuffed to the gills in Minnesota with great jazz artists. We wanted to highlight some of the best songs released in 2023. This list is by no means comprehensive and we encourage you to listen our stream dedicated to Minnesota music, Minnesota Jazz Tracks. And don't miss out on the great local show of the same name on our FM airwaves on Monday nights from 7-9.
We are stuffed to the gills in Minnesota with great jazz artists. We wanted to highlight some of the best songs released in 2023. This list is by no means comprehensive and we encourage you to listen our stream dedicated to Minnesota music, Minnesota Jazz Tracks. And don't miss out on the great local show of the same name on our FM airwaves on Monday nights from 7-9.
José James is a product of South Minneapolis and even though he lives elsewhere he is still strongly connected with the Twin Cities. In fact, James fell in love with jazz as a young teenager thanks to an announcer on Jazz88 outlining the role of Billy Strayhorn in the composition "Take The A Train". In his adulthood James has become an internationally revered jazz artist. He's dropping a new album in April of 2024 and he's coming back to the Twin Cities for two shows at the Dakota on December 12 and 13. These are his annual Christmas shows and this year, he'll be joined by Christian Sands on piano. Tune in to hear about all this and more from José James.
Craig Dion and Jason Craft alongside fellow musicians and vocalists will be gracing the stage of the Capri Theater in Minneapolis this Sunday for a concert celebrating the music of Stevie Wonder. They visited the Afternoon Cruise to discuss the concert, Wonder's vast musical output and the unique unpolished joy that Stevie Wonder brings to his work behind the drum kit.
Ginger Commodore, Judi Vinar and Connie Evingson are all headliners in their own right but they have elected to get together as a triple threat for the first time to usher in the holidays with their Crooner's concert on November 30 "Holiday Sugar, Spice and Everything Nice". The trio connected with Sean McPherson from the Afternoon Cruise to discuss their plans for the concert and their storied careers in the Twin Cities music world.
Maurice Jacox is a living legend. He's lived his life on stages around the world and nowadays the Twin Cities is blessed to see him all over town. On November 28 Maurice will be leading his group "We Still R" through a concert at the Dakota. In the conversation with Jazz88's Sean McPherson Jacox discusses how he ended up playing with We Still R, his love of the Cuban people and more.
Drummer, bandleader and writer Brandon Commodore is no stranger to stages all across the world in his work with Stokley, The New Power Generation and more. But for Brandon's own musical development, no stage looms as large as the Dakota. This Monday he and his group NRG will grace the stage and Commodore has a lot to be excited about.
Harold López-Nussa is already out on the road and is ready to visit the Cedar Cultural Center on Wednesday November 15 for his debut performance at that venue. López-Nussa's new release is his first for Blue Note and it's garnering lots of acclaim for good reason; it's a reflection on his experiences, both joyous and melancholy, of leaving Cuba and moving with his family to France. Harold took some time out of his schedule to chat with Sean from the Afternoon Cruise about the record and about his experiences playing the music out on the road.
Nabaté Isles connected with Jazz88 in advance of his show this Sunday at Crooners. The show is titled "Jazz's Influence on Hip-Hop". Isles was quick to point out how his upbringing in NYC in the golden era of hip-hop involved his artistry and his understanding of music in general. Nabaté also shared the information on the distinguished group of players and guests that he'll have with him on Sunday.
The celebrated Twin Cities vocalist Kathleen Johnson is back onstage this weekend at the Capri Theater this weekend for Blue Gardenia. The show features three singers, Johnson, Thomasina Petrus and Patricia Lacy. The trio is navigating the songbooks of Etta James, Billie Holiday and Phyllis Hyman. Kathleen Johnson took the time to visit Jazz88 and discuss her connections to Etta James and her excitement about bringing the music to the stage this weekend.
LA Buckner and his Big HomiE project are preparing for another big show at the Dakota. This week he'll be bringing a special Halloween friendly program to the stage. When he visited Jazz88 he talked about this show and his recent experience playing with Big HomiE on stages that require different levels of restraint in regards to volume.
Dez, Rokkstar Savage and Glo visited the studios of Jazz88 to announce an exciting development for their podcast, 4theKulture. The 4theKulture podcast is presented by the Kulture Klub Collaborative. Glorius L. Martin, aka Glo, has been helping the team produce the podcast. And starting next week, you can hear the 4theKulture podcast on MPS Voices. Listen to hear more about this exciting new collaboration.
Vic Volare is preparing to throw his Monster Mash Birthday Bash on Halloween night over at the Granada Theater in Uptown Minneapolis. In regards to throwing a night of swinging music, this is not Volare's first rodeo. Vic Volare was at the epicenter of the swing dancing renaissance of the mid-90s here in the Twin Cities and has parlayed that into a career as an in-demand swingin' bandleader. Volare visited the studios of Jazz88 to discuss his long career playing swing music and to chat up his upcoming Halloween show at the Granada.
Craig Taborn was raised in the Twin Cities but set his sights on the East Coast early in his professional career. After cementing his status as a top-flight straight-ahead jazz player in the 1990s, Taborn has become one of the most inventive and forward thinking musicians in any genre. Although he is well-known for his work on synthesizers, Taborn will be performing a largely solo "bespoke" concert on acoustic piano at Icehouse on Tuesday, October 24.
During some downtime in Atlanta Fantastic Negrito was doing a little genealogical digging when he started to follow a trail to his seventh generation grandparents. It turns out that in Virginia in the 1750s his grandparents, a White Scottish indentured female servant and an enslaved African man fell in love and started a family. This discovery prompted an outpouring of creativity from Fantastic Negrito. Negrito released an album based on this relationship in 2022 called "White Jesus Black Problems". Currently Negrito is out on the road screening the film. He'll be at the Dakota on Wednesday October 25 for a screening, q & a, and an acoustic performance.
Leslie Vincent visited the studios of Jazz88 to perform a haunting ukulele version of her song "Bury Her Down" and chat up her upcoming performance at Granada Theater on Saturday October 21.
Back in 2017 Jazz88's Bobby Vandell connected with drum legend David Garibaldi for a long interview covering many aspects of Garibaldi's legendary career going back to the earliest years of Tower of Power. Jazz88 will continue to share portions of this interview throughout the coming months. Enjoy this portion of the conversation, focusing on Garibaldi's formative years.
Roy Hargrove was born October 16, 1969. In his too-short life (Hargrove died in 2018) he became an icon; sharing stages with musicians from across genres, winning Grammys and penning songs with will live on. Minnesota-based trumpet player Omar Abdulkarim had occasion to share stages and conversations with Hargrove during Abdulkarim's time living in New York. Omar was nice enough to visit our studios and chat with Sean McPherson about his memories of Roy Hargrove.
Stokley is an internationally acclaimed R&B star, both as a solo act and with his 20+ year career with Mint Condition. Hailing from the Twin Cities, Stokley can keep a low profile in town and he doesn't perform in town too often. But when he does. . .it's an EVENT. This Saturday Stokley is playing at the Uptown Theater alongside Jordan Johnston, Bakarii and LA Buckner and Big Homie. This week Stokley, Bakarii and LA Buckner stopped by the studio to talk about the big show and more.
Grammy award-winning vocalist Kurt Elling took some time out of his touring itinerary to chat with the Afternoon Cruise's Sean McPherson about his new album SuperBlue 2: The Iridescent Spree. Listen to find out how the tour is going and how some of the best songs on the new album came to be.
Celebrated trumpeter, bandleader and composer Randy Brecker is swinging back into town to join the JazzMN Orchestra at the Chanhassen Dinner Theater on Monday night. Jazz88's Peter Solomon caught up with Brecker to find out about the program on Monday and much more!
John Raymond was raised in the Twin Cities but is now based out of Bloomington, Indiana and New York. Raymond will be back in town to kick off a tour supporting his new collaborative album with S. Carey, Shadowlands. Jazz88 caught up with Raymond to find out about how this unique collaboration came to be.
Braxton Haulcey, the Executive Director of Walker-West and Ernest Bisong, a violin instructor at Walker-West as well as the curator of the new season of the Rondo Community Music Series visited Jazz88 to discuss the launch of their Rondo Community Music Series.
Dorothy Doring has added a new chapter to the long story of her life as a musician. In the past couple years Dorothy Doring has started writing songs and she's ready to share them with the world. She'll be playing at Metronome Brewery in St. Paul on Saturday alongside her host and opening act Trish Sisson.
Pavielle, celebrated vocalist and bandleader as well as host on Jazz88, has teamed up with vocalist and curator Dennis Spears to kick of season 14 of Legends at the Capri Theater. This weekend the Capri will be transformed into a juke joint in a show titled "Hot Times at Zona's Cabaret and Blues Joint". Listen for how Pavielle and Dennis Spears are bringing their musical histories into an exciting new stage performance.
Yohannes Tona, an internationally renown bassist, and vocalist Dibekulu have teamed up to bring Ethio-Jazz to the Twin Cities. Listen to the interview to find out how Yohannes discovered the sounds of Ethio-jazz while learning other styles of music. And discover how the notes of the Amharic scales of Ethiopia combining with Latin and jazz rhythms and harmonies brought about a new sound, largely canonized by Mulatu Astatke.
Cuban and American piano phenom Alfredo Rodriguez is coming to the Turf Club for a show on Sunday night with his trio. He's celebrating the release of his new Mack Avenue recording "Coral Way". Listen to the conversation between Alfredo Rodriguez and Sean McPherson and prepare for Rodriguez's trio first visit to the Twin Cities at the Turf Club Sunday, September 24.
David Feily, Greg Byers and Ernest Bisong are all first call players in the Twin Cities music world. As members of the small world of string players working in improvised settings they might've been destined to cross paths regardless, but it was the urging of violin master Randy Sabien that initially brought them together. After a couple days of free recording time at the Institute for Production and Recording, the group decided on a name and started taking gigs. This Sunday they are taking the stage of Crooners. Listen to the conversation between David, Greg and Sean to find out what to expect at the concert!
Kavyesh Kaviraj is in demand in the Twin Cities as a phenomenal piano player. That means that in his ten years in the Twin Cities he's developed quite the network of players to call on when he's the leader. So as Kavyesh Kaviraj took on the duty of curating a Jazzclectic Concert, he knew the right people to call. Listen to the conversation between Kavyesh Kaviraj and Sean McPherson to hear about Kavy's lineup including Miguel Hurtado (drums), Stephanie Wieseler (saxophone), Anthony Cox (bass) and DeCarlo Jackson (trumpet).
Marcus Kar, the Northside program director at Youth Farm and co-chair of the Homegrown Minneapolis Food Council came to visit Jazz88 and brought along Jesse Miller, a Youth Farm lead. This Saturday they are celebrating the season with Playing For the Plants 2023. A concert featuring free food while supplies last and music from Lady Midnight, LA Buckner and Friends, Hastings 3000 and more.
Twin Cities vocalist Aja Parham fell in love with the voice of Sarah Vaughan on CD. From there, Parham has made an effort to celebrate Sarah Vaughan on stages across the Twin Cities and beyond. She'll be exploring the Sarah Vaughan songbook on Sunday night over at Crooners. Listen in for a conversation between Aja Parham and Sean McPherson about all things Sarah Vaughan.
Jon Reyerson is with the Wayzata Chamber of Commerce and they are preparing for James J Hill Days this weekend. This year Jazz88 is part of the event, presenting a Jazzclectic Concert on Friday night with the Jack Brass Band. Jon stopped by to chat about the concert and about the larger offerings of James J. Hill Days, including llamas in costume.
Grammy nominated artist Najee took the time to connect with Jazz88's Patty Peterson in advance of his headlining show on Saturday, September 9 at the Selby Avenue Jazz Festival. Najee discussed his time touring and recording with Prince, his "COVID" record and he went over the details for the stellar band he's bringing to St. Paul this weekend.
In anticipation of the Zorn at 70 event at the Walker Art Center on Saturday, September 9 Sean McPherson from Jazz88 sat down with Philip Bither from the Walker Art Center to highlight some tracks from Zorn's vast catalog and talk about Zorn's significance in the musical world.
Celebrated pianist Larry McDonough has been a fixture on the jazz scene for decades and he's well-known for his love of Bill Evans. This Thursday Larry and company are gracing the mainstage of Crooners to play Bill Evans' material. They'll also share part of a moving documentary about Evans' life.
Maud Hixson is a mainstay of the jazz scene in the Twin Cities and she has churned out another exemplary disc. On Saturday she's taking the stage of Crooner's to celebrate the new release "Permanent Moonlight". Listen in to Maud's conversation with Sean McPherson from the Afternoon Cruise about the new disc and about Hixson's upcoming performance at Lincoln Center.
Jack Barrett (piano) and Charlie Bruber (bass) are kindred musical spirits. And during the pandemic they found their way back to creativity by doing brisk, low-pressure sessions with Ben Ehrlich and Jake Baldwin bright and early in the morning. These sessions grew into the record that they are releasing as the Jack Barrett Quartet on Wednesday night at Icehouse.
On August 21, 1904 Count Basie was born in Red Bank, NJ. In his seventy-nine years on planet earth he contributed immense amounts to the development of jazz. And the legendary orchestra that he led for the majority of his life continues on to this day under the tutelage of Scotty Barnhart. Rick Carlson, a Twin Cities pianist who holds an after hours residency at Crooners, was raised on the piano work of Count Basie and was nice enough to come through Jazz88 to talk about Count Basie's importance in the world of music.
Jamecia Bennett took time out of her busy schedule to chat with Jazz88 in advance of her headlining show at the Art and All That Jazz Festival this weekend in Burnsville. Ms. Bennett, well-known for her long tenure with Sounds of Blackness, is bringing her critically acclaimed solo show to Nicollet Commons Park and already planning out further performances later in the year at the Ordway.
Deedles, aka Diane Schuur, is making her way back to the Twin Cities for two shows on Saturday, August 12 with the JazzMN Orchestra. She'll be exploring the Count Basie songbook, something she's been doing since the mid 1980s. Diane was joined for this interview by her feline partner, Puss Puss. This interview was edited by Ben Ere’imul.
Celebrated pianist and MacPhail instructor Michael Cain spent about a decade working with Jack DeJohnette from '90-'99. He was nice enough to swing through Jazz88 and talk about his love of Jack DeJohnette. He also reflected on DeJohnette's larger importance in the music world at large.
Award-winning pianist Isaiah J. Thompson is navigating life as a rising star in the jazz world, an in-demand sideman touring the world with John Pizzarelli and a newly-wed! It's a lot to balance but Thompson finds a way to that and also serenade his mother's old Volvo in song form.
JT Bates is preparing for a show on Monday August 14 with Todd Clouser and John Medeski. JT Bates connected with Sean from the Afternoon Cruise to talk about what it's like to play with Medeski and Clouser and what they plan to bring to the stage of Icehouse on Monday, August 14.
Ted Godbout is a consumate sideman supplying the needed support on the keys for many of the greats in the Twin Cities and beyond. But on Wednesday August 9 Godbout will be stepping out as a leader to bring his sounds to the plaza of the Capri Theater. Check out the conversation between Ted and Sean McPherson from the Afternoon Cruise.
Adam Meckler isn't just a trumpet player. He's a writer, an arranger, a curator, an educator and more. He swung down from the Upper Peninsula to get his Twin Cities based orchestra back together for a show at Crooners on Friday. In the conversation Meckler and McPherson discuss Meckler's approach to big band writing, his love of reusing material and his dedication to sharing the tricks of trade with the next generation of musicians.
Jason Fabus is a Minnesota educated jazz musician making his way out in Los Angeles. He's swinging back through town to visit friends and play a couple shows. He'll be at Crooners on Friday night with Graydon Peterson (bass) and Phil Hey (drums) supporting. Fabus is a bit of an odd bird in the jazz world, as he works both as a saxophonist and as a vocalist. In the conversation Jason shared a bit about his path to performing in two disciplines.
The Twin Cities based cellist Greg Byers stopped by the Afternoon Cruise to chat about his new album, "Dear Zbigniew". Greg discussed how visiting Poland in 2018 for the Seifert International Jazz Violin Competition changed his life and where he believes the world of bowed jazz players is heading.
Billy Stritch connected with Jazz88 in advance of his Crooners show, "A Musical Night Out with Billy Stritch". Sean from the Afternoon Cruise chatted with Billy about what he's learned from working with greats like Liza Minnelli, Linda Eder and others. Billy Stritch also shared a memory of playing with the late great Tony Bennett in Stritch's hometown of Sugar Land, Texas.
Bruce Henry dates his music career back to the first time he got paid to make music in a nightclub, going back almost exactly fifty years. He'll be celebrating his breathtaking career at the Dakota on Saturday night. Check out the conversation between Bruce Henry and Sean McPherson
Brian Ziemniak of the BZ3 Organ Trio rolled through the Afternoon Cruise to talk about their upcoming show at Crooners and he brought along Julius Collins, one of the special guests that will be on the show at Crooners. Check out the full conversation here. This podcast was edited by Ben Ere'imul.
The vibraphonist Cecilia Smith connected with Jazz88 to discuss her latest album, "The Mary Lou Williams Resurgence Project Vol. 1". Smith has been on a campaign since the late '90s to shine a light on Mary Lou Williams legacy and her writing. Listen for insight on how Cecilia Smith goes about amplifying and advancing Mary Lou Williams' legacy.
Mack Avenue Recording artist and Minneapolis resident Steve Cole is getting ready for a headlining show at the Ames Center in Burnsville on Friday August 18. Steve was kind enough to visit the Afternoon Cruise and talk about his career, his connection to the Twin Cities and his path to becoming one of the big names in contemporary jazz.
Leslie Vincent visited the Jazz88 studios in anticipation of the release of her new album "About Last Night". In the conversation she talked about her love of jazz and her connection with the band that played on her new recording.
Laila Biali is getting ready for a show at Crooner's on Saturday July 22. She was nice enough to connect with Sean from the Afternoon Cruise to talk about her new record, "Your Requests" as well as her collaborations with Sting, Kurt Elling and her embrace of her own musical strengths.
Omar Abdulkarim and Anthony Coleman II visited the Afternoon Cruise to discuss their July 16 show at the Dakota. As two of the most exciting trumpet players working in the Twin Cities they had a lot to say about what they're bringing to the stage. They also talked about the support and encouragement they both received from Roy Hargrove while studying, living and playing in New York City.
Béla Fleck connected with Sean from Jazz88 in advance of a two-night four show run at the Dakota on Thursday and Friday of this week (July 13 and 14). Fleck is touring in support of his 2021 release, My Bluegrass Heart. Fleck and McPherson discussed the unique challenges of playing bluegrass, and the new perspective Fleck has on the genre after a ten year absence from playing it outside of his own practice.
On her way to rehearsal Ginger Commodore visited the Afternoon Cruise to talk about her upcoming show honoring the legacy of Tina Turner. The show happens on Sunday night at the Dakota.
Celebrated musician and composer Martin Dosh swung through the Afternoon Cruise to discuss some upcoming shows including a Courtyard appearance at Icehouse on Thursday, July 6.
Taylor Carik, one of the organizers of Taste of Minnesota, visited the Afternoon Cruise to discuss the event including answers on how to enjoy the festival, how to get to the festival and what he plans on eating once he gets there!
David Billingsley visited the Afternoon Cruise to discuss his upcoming show on Sunday at Taste of Minnesota. He'll be one of the headliners at the Jazz88 stage at 5th and Nicollet in downtown Minneapolis. In the interview David discussed his lineup for the show and what he hopes to give to listeners with his musical efforts.
Master drummer Kevin Washington swung through the Afternoon Cruise in advance of his appearance at the Jazzclectic pop up concert series on Wednesday June 28 at Waterworks Park in Minneapolis.
Katia Cardenas and Lucia Sarmiento are both instructors in a new program from Walker West Music Academy called the "Women in Jazz Initiative". The first combo of players from the program are playing on Saturday June 24 at the Twin Cities Jazz Festival. Katia and Lucia discussed the importance of creating spaces where girls can thrive and feel supported as they learn jazz. These instructor/practitioners also discussed their upcoming shows as musicians.
When Christian McBride was in town to play the Dakota in January he took time with Sean to discuss the ensemble he'd be bringing to the Twin Cities Jazz Festival.
When Christian McBride was in town to play the Dakota in January he took time with Sean to discuss the ensemble he'd be bringing to the Twin Cities Jazz Festival.
Paquito D'Rivera connected with the Afternoon Cruise in anticipation of his performance on Friday June 23 at the Twin Cities Jazz Festival with the Dizzy Gillespie Afro Latin Experience. D'Rivera covered his love of Dizzy Gillespie's music and his memories of playing and traveling with him.
Camille Thurman the Darrell Green Quartet are getting ready to play on the Jazz88 Mainstage on Friday June 23. They caught up with Sean from the Afternoon Cruise to talk about their plans for the show!
Travis Ryder, the Program Director here at Jazz88 stuck around to chat with Sean from the Afternoon Cruise about the broadcast schedule for this weekend's Twin Cities Jazz Festival.
Davina from Davina and The Vagabonds swung through the Afternoon Cruise to talk about the upcoming show for the Vagabonds. Davina also mentioned how the pandemic has changed their goals and life outlook.
Gary Hines, the leader of Sounds of Blackness connected with Sean from the Afternoon Cruise to discuss the group's new single, "Woke" as well as their upcoming Juneteenth show at Allianz Field.
Manny Hill, the executive producer of MPS Voices, was nice enough to swing through the Afternoon Cruise and talk about the new service designed to let more listeners discover the talents of the Minneapolis Public Schools community.
Cody Steinmann visited the Afternoon Cruise to discuss his upcoming concerts, his monthly jam session and his love of the Twin Cities. He was raised in Milwaukee but relocated to the Twin Cities about five years ago. Sean McPherson also quizzed him about Milwaukee's not so famous food, hoppel poppel.
Jevetta Steele caught up with Sean from the Afternoon Cruise as she was preparing for her appearance with the Minnesota Orchestra for their Juneteenth Celebration on June 23.
Ernest Bisong, an accomplished violinist based out of the Twin Cities swung through the Jazz88 studios to talk about the role of violin in jazz music and to discuss his upcoming summer camp for string players.
Legendary guitarist, vocalist and radio host John Pizzarelli hopped on the phone with Jazz88 to discuss his new album and his recent travels with his trio.
Dave King of the Bad Plus hopped on the phone to talk with Sean from Jazz88 about the Bad Plus's new quartet lineup and their upcoming show at First Ave on June 10. Plus, they discussed Dave King's work with Julian Lage and King's connection to the Twin Cities.
Brandon Commodore, the leader of the NRG project, stopped by the Afternoon Cruise to chat about his concert on May 26 at The Commons in downtown Minneapolis.
Celebrated producer and saxophonist Terrace Martin hopped onto a ZOOM with Sean from the Afternoon Cruise to discuss his upcoming run of shows at the Dakota. During the conversation Martin shared his deep knowledge of the Twin Cities music scene, including gracing the stage of Arnellia's in St. Paul and taking in a performance at JT's Jazz Implosion at the Turf Club.
The celebrated mc and activist Lewiee Blaze visited the studios of Jazz88 to discuss his upcoming performance at Purple Day. This annual celebration of "The Purple One" aka Prince, brings together some of the best and brightest of the Twin Cities music scene for a great community event.
The celebrated harp player Brandee Younger is preparing for a visit to the Dakota for a headlining show on 5/23. She hopped on the phone with Sean from the Afternoon Cruise to discuss the show, her recent album and the influence of the harpist Dorothy Ashby on Younger's work.
Byron Stripling, a nationally acclaimed trumpet player and conductor, swung by The Afternoon Cruise to discuss his upcoming season-opening show with the JazzMN Orchestra on May 23.
Sloane Martin, a broadcaster with the Minnesota Lynx, swung by the Jazz88 studio to talk about the upcoming season which gets started on May 19 with a home game against the Chicago Sky.
In-demand drummer and bandleader LA Buckner swung by the Jazz88 studios to discuss his upcoming show at Indeed Brewing for the Art-A-Whirl festival, Whirlygig.
Chadwick 'Niles' Phillips stopped by the studio to discuss his involvement with ComMUSICation, a program founded in 2013 to provide high-quality afterschool music programs accessible to youth. The group is celebrating their 10th anniversary on Sunday May 21 at the Ordway in St. Paul.
Ambrose Akinmusire is getting ready for a two night stand at the Walker Art Center on May 19 and 20. He's been working on new music and figuring out how to balance his music work with his well-being. Listen for a conversation between Ambrose Akinmusire and Sean McPherson before attending the shows.
A promising group of middle school girls came through the Jazz88 studios to premiere their new single "Be Positive" and discuss their upcoming performance at Viva City at South High. Thanks to Mr. B and Adrian Davis for bringing the students and thanks to Angel Williams, Shakira McMorris, Trinity Boyd, Kaleidra Stone, Arianna Harris, Kylie Lee and Vee Born Burnham for visiting us.
Pete Whitman, the celebrated Minnesota-based saxophonist and composer swung by the Afternoon Cruise to discuss his upcoming show leading and conducting the South High Jazz Band on May 24. This podcast was edited by Autumn Haeg.
The in-demand, Twin Cities based keyboard player Kavyesh Kaviraj came through the studios of Jazz88 to talk about the importance of working as a side person, his approach to leading bands and his upcoming show at the Dakota.
Steve Heckler and Dayna Martinez swung by the Afternoon Cruise to chat about The Twin Cities Jazz Festival. They covered details on the MPS Voices Youth Stage as well as provided highlights from all Jazz Fest has to offer.
Pete Whitman, the celebrated Minnesota-based saxophonist and composer swung by the Afternoon Cruise to discuss his upcoming show with Byron Stripling and the JazzMN Orchestra on May 23, as well as an upcoming set on the books at the Dakota.
Ronnie Foster is making his way to the Dakota on May 11. He was nice enough to hop on a ZOOM with Sean McPherson and talk about his new album, the upcoming show, his tutelage under other organ masters and his experience of being sampled by A Tribe Called Quest.
Bobby Lyle is back in town for a Friday show at Crooners and he was nice enough to stop by the Afternoon Cruise. He talked about growing up in Minneapolis and hearing about young musicians in North Minneapolis who were working out of a garage. Those musicians turned out to be Prince and Morris Day! That's the tip of the iceberg with the stories Bobby Lyle can tell about his four plus decades in the music world.
Pianist Billy Childs connected with Sean McPherson via ZOOM to discuss his new album, his collaborators and his upcoming show at the Dakota in Minneapolis. - This podcast was produced and edited by Autumn Haeg.
Karrin Allison swung through the Afternoon Cruise to talk about her upcoming show at the Dakota on Tuesday, May 16. She's preparing for a new album centered on the music of Brazil and she's bringing some collaborators, including Rossa Passos to get in on the action.
Karrin Allison swung through the Afternoon Cruise to talk about her upcoming show at the Dakota on Tuesday, May 16. She's preparing for a new album centered on the music of Brazil and she's bringing some collaborators, including Rossa Passos to get in on the action.
Karrin Allison swung through the Afternoon Cruise to talk about her upcoming show at the Dakota on Tuesday, May 16. She's preparing for a new album centered on the music of Brazil and she's bringing some collaborators, including Rossa Passos to get in on the action.
In advance of a release show at the Cedar Cultural Center, deVon Russell Gray, Nathan Hanson and Davu Seru visited Jazz88 to discuss their new album, We Sick.
The jet-setting Twin Cities based saxophonist Lucia Sarmiento swung by the Afternoon Cruise to chat with Sean McPherson in anticipation of her first headlining concert ever, taking place at Crooners on Thursday, April 27.
Willie West hopped on the phone with Sean from the Afternoon Cruise to chat about his upcoming show at Crooners and the re-release of his record "The Soul Sessions".
Lakecia Benjamin connected via ZOOM with Afternoon Cruise host Sean McPherson to chat about her new record "Phoenix" and her rising star in the music world.
Joan Hutton and Sue Orfield came through the Afternoon Cruise to chat about their new record "Take That Back" and their upcoming show this Friday at Crooners.
Patty Peterson stopped by the Afternoon Cruise to discuss the Minnesota Jazz Legends event coming up on Sunday. Dive into this interview to get a glimpse of what goes into producing an event like Minnesota Jazz Legends. And we'll see you there on Sunday!
Patty Peterson stopped by the Afternoon Cruise to discuss the Minnesota Jazz Legends event coming up on Sunday. Dive into this interview to get a glimpse of what goes into producing an event like Minnesota Jazz Legends. And we'll see you there on Sunday!
Patty Peterson stopped by the Afternoon Cruise to discuss the Minnesota Jazz Legends event coming up on Sunday. Dive into this interview to get a glimpse of what goes into producing an event like Minnesota Jazz Legends. And we'll see you there on Sunday!
Patty Peterson stopped by the Afternoon Cruise to discuss the Minnesota Jazz Legends event coming up on Sunday. Dive into this interview to get a glimpse of what goes into producing an event like Minnesota Jazz Legends. And we'll see you there on Sunday!
Patty Peterson stopped by the Afternoon Cruise to discuss the Minnesota Jazz Legends event coming up on Sunday. Dive into this interview to get a glimpse of what goes into producing an event like Minnesota Jazz Legends. And we'll see you there on Sunday!
Patty Peterson stopped by the Afternoon Cruise to discuss the Minnesota Jazz Legends event coming up on Sunday. Dive into this interview to get a glimpse of what goes into producing an event like Minnesota Jazz Legends. And we'll see you there on Sunday!
Patty Peterson stopped by the Afternoon Cruise to discuss the Minnesota Jazz Legends event coming up on Sunday. Dive into this interview to get a glimpse of what goes into producing an event like Minnesota Jazz Legends. And we'll see you there on Sunday!
Patty Peterson stopped by the Afternoon Cruise to discuss the Minnesota Jazz Legends event coming up on Sunday. Dive into this interview to get a glimpse of what goes into producing an event like Minnesota Jazz Legends. And we'll see you there on Sunday!
In preparation for their show on Saturday April 1, 2023 at Dakota, Jay Young brought down his son and fellow bassist Ian Young as well as celebrated vocalist Ginger Commodore to discuss the Lyric Factory project.
Immanuel Wilkins visited the Afternoon Cruise in advance of his performance at Dakota on Wednesday April 5. This interview was produced and edited by Autumn Haeg.
While he was in Minneapolis Christian McBride was nice enough to connect with Sean from the Afternoon Cruise to discuss his upcoming performances in the Twin Cities, his love and support for all things jazz and his work on Jazz Night in America.
Acclaimed poet and educator Desdamona stopped by Jazz88 to discuss her work with TruArt Speaks and their upcoming relaunch of their acclaimed Open Mic series.
The celebrated saxophonist and composer James Brandon Lewis visited with Sean from the Afternoon Cruise to discuss the music and legacy of Ornette Coleman on Coleman's birthdate, March 9. Lewis's path in the music world is connected to Coleman not only by Coleman's musical legacy, but also by players like Charlie Haden and Jamaaladeen Tacuma, who have worked with Coleman and Lewis.
After a seven year absence from the stages of the Twin Cities, Pippi Ardennia and her partner Daniel Leahy are back to grace the Crooners MainStage on Sunday evening. They were nice enough to hop on a Zoom with Sean McPherson from the Afternoon Cruise to chat about their upcoming visit.
LA Buckner was nice enough to visit the Afternoon Cruise before his headlining Dakota show on Monday March 6.
Cecile McLorin Salvant joined a ZOOM with Sean from the Afternoon Cruise in advance of her shows this weekend at the Walker Art Center.
Joan Griffith visited the Afternoon Cruise to discuss her new album Sambanova 2 and her upcoming show on Crooner's on February 17.
Minnesota jazz royalty stopped by the Afternoon Cruise to discuss the upcoming release party for their new album, Weights and Measures.
Jeremy Pelt and Cory Weeds joined the Afternoon Cruise to talk about a recent initiative from Cellar Records to release more music from Black-led bands. Cory Weeds is the label head for Cellar and Jeremy Pelt has appeared on many Cellar releases both as a producer and as a performer. Pelt and Weeds discussed how the mission to release more records from Black leaders came about and how it's been going.
Rachael Price hosted Sean McPherson from the Afternoon Cruise at the Palace Theatre in St. Paul to chat about her new release with guitarist composer VIlray "I Love a Love Song".
Drummer and composer extraordinaire Kevin Washington visited the Jazz88 studios to Discuss his upcoming concert at The Hopkins Arts Center.
Gary Hines, the leader of Sounds Blackness, took the time to visit with Sean from the Afternoon Cruise in advance of Sounds of Blackness's show on Friday January 13 at the Ordway, Music for Martin.
Minnesota musician Keyez Williams paid a visit to the Afternoon Cruise to discuss his run of shows at the Granada in Uptown Minneapolis and to play a bit of his music.
The guitarist Marc Ribot was nice enough to catch up with the Afternoon Cruise in advance of his upcoming show at the Cedar. Ribot discussed his love of solo performance, his short lived tenure in Brother Jack McDuff's band and his close associations with the No-Wave scene in New York City.
Award-winning music icon Vijay Iyer was nice enough to join Sean McPherson from the Afternoon Cruise in anticipation of his Thursday show at The Dakota. In this interview Iyer discusses his new record, Uneasy, his love of the piano trio format and his approach to teaching.
In anticipation of his Saturday show at Jazz Central, saxophonist Dennis Mitcheltree hopped on a ZOOM with Sean from the Afternoon Cruise to talk about new album, Golden Rule.
The celebrated vocalist Kendra Morris, who is out on the road at the moment with labelmates Monophonics, hopped on a ZOOM to chat with Christian Fritz in advance of her upcoming show at the Fine Line.
Kelly Finnigan, the leader of Monophonics, connected via ZOOM with Christian Fritz in advance of the Monophonics show coming on October 3 at the Fine Line in Minneapolis.
The musical icon Jellybean Johnson swung through Jazz88 to talk blues, museums and the greatness of the Twin Cities music scene.
The Minnesota-based music icon Nachito Herrera hopped on the phone with Jazz88's Sean McPherson to discuss his upcoming performance at The Ordway. He'll be playing with a 7-piece band featuring the cream of the crop from the Cuban music scene. Enjoy the conversation about what concert-goers can expect from the show.
Lucibela, a rising star and vocalist from Cape Verde was nice enough to stop by Jazz88 before her show at the Cedar Cultural Center on Friday September 16.
Julian Lage is out on the road in support of his new Blue Note release "View with A Room". He's swinging through the Dakota in Minneapolis on Saturday, September 17 and he was nice enough to connect with Sean from the Afternoon Cruise and discuss Bill Frisell's contributions to the album, the history of jazz guitar, his relationship with Dave King and much more.
John Scofield is out on the road with his band supporting his new self-titled release. He was nice enough to take some time out of his busy schedule to visit with Sean McPherson from the Afternoon Cruise.
Acclaimed vocalist was nice enough to connect with Jazz88's Sean McPherson in advance of her duo show on Thursday, September 1 at The Dakota. Check out the whole conversation here.
Zacc Harris is celebrating the legacy of Pat Martino on Thursday August 25 at Crooner's. He hopped on the Afternoon Cruise to discuss Martino's influence in the jazz world.
Ben Sidran is rolling through town for a two night stand on Friday August 19 and Saturday August 20 at Crooners. He was nice enough to hop on a ZOOM and chat with Sean McPherson about his new album and his upcoming shows.
The jazz legend and Jazz88 broadcaster Butch Thompson passed away on Sunday 08/14/22. This is the audio of the tribute to Butch Thompson from 8/16/22 during the Afternoon Cruise with Tony Baluff (Southside Aces) and Sean McPherson (Jazz88).
Pavielle is releasing a new documentary that tracks the making of her album, Sovereign. Check out the extended conversation between Pavielle and Jazz88's Sean McPherson.
Ann Hampton Callaway is visiting the Twin Cities for a two-show stand over at Crooners this weekend. She was enough to talk about her love of the Linda Rondstadt songbook and her love of performing in general!
Hear Scotty Barnhart talk about the upcoming show at Crooner's alongside a discussion about the role of trumpet in jazz and Scotty's take on the most important jazz musician of all time.
Celebrated pianist and MacPhail faculty member Michael Cain stopped by in advance of his performance this Saturday at the MacPhail WaterWorks event.
Emmet took a minute between soundcheck and his performance on Friday June 24 to touch base with Sean McPherson from Jazz88.
Benny Jones Sr., bass drum player and bandleader for the Treme Brass Band took the time to catch up with Sean McPherson from Jazz88 via phone from his home in New Orleans.
Zacc Harris, an in-demand guitar player from the Twin Cities, stopped by the Afternoon Cruise to chat with Sean McPherson about his upcoming show at the Twin Cities Jazz Fest. Harris and his group will be playing on Saturday at 2pm on the Jazz88 Mainstage.
Gary Hines, the longtime leader of Sounds of Blackness, stopped by Jazz88 to visit and discuss the group's new anthem, "Juneteenth Celebration".
Veteran drummer Peter Kogan was nice enough to swing by for a conversation with Sam Keenan from Minnesota Jazz Tracks! Check out the interview!
In anticipation of their shows this week at the Dakota, Patty Peterson connected with Dane Alderson from The Yellowjackets.
Julius Collins, of Dr. Mambo's Combo, stopped by the Afternoon Cruise to chat with Sean McPherson in advance of the group's two show stand at the Capri Theater this weekend. The show is called "Let's Go Crazy" and it's a Prince tribute.
Jill Mott, sommelier from Henry & Son, talks about fermenting, storing and drinking wines in clay vessels.
State Climatologist Luigi Romolo talks about rain helping drought conditions, wind bringing cold, and numerous volunteer opportunities for weather observers.
Stephen Rueff from the Minneapolis College of Art and Design talks about PitchFest, the annual arts entrepreneurship competition. PitchFest is an opportunity for MCAD undergraduates to stretch their creative thinking, consider how they can impact the world, and win some fantastic award money.
Pianist Nachito Herrera pays tribute to the late Chick Corea in a live performance at the Dakota on Wednesday, Mar. 31, 2021.
This is an interesting time to think about how we managed our finances a year ago when the pandemic first got underway and where we are now, as the end of the pandemic is in sight! Joanne Lundberg in LSS Financial Counseling, shares trends she is seeing through her work with others around personal finance and offer recommendations for planning our personal finances in the months ahead.
Film publicist Peter Schilling talks about a series of films by Wong Kar Wai showing at the Trylon in south Minneapolis, and a series of short films showing at the Walker Art Center.
Derek Francis and Jim Bierma are counselors with Minneapolis Public Schools. They talk about the upcoming College and Career Readiness Week starting Monday, March 29, 2021.
Davina and the Vagabonds have a show coming up at the Dakota Friday, March 26, 2021. Davina Lozier talks about the upcoming show and her process for writing songs.
Craig Rice from the MSP Film Society talks about what's new on the Virtual Cinema and the upcoming Cuban Film Festival.
State Climatologist Luigi Romolo talks about much-needed rain for Minnesota and how to become a volunteer weather observer.
Margo Ashmore publishes the Northeaster Newspaper for Northeast Minneapolis, Columbia Heights, St. Anthony and Hilltop. She talks about what's in the newest edition of the paper.
Musician and author Mick Sterling has a live performance coming up at the Dakota where he'll sing and also read passages from his new book.
Unemployment has dropped significantly since the start of the pandemic, but looming uncertainty in sectors like entertainment and hospitality have led many of us to consider other career paths moving forward. Sarah Northrup with LSS Employment Services talks about what job-seekers need to know when shifting careers
Author Vicki Toups Sheaffer talks about her new children's book, "Oh Mother How Funny" illustrated by Kristie Kaiser Frudden.
Sommelier Jill Mott from Henry & Son talks about new beers from around the world to enjoy in the Twin Cities.
State Climatologist Luigi Romolo talks about mid-March snow and the upcoming vernal equinox.
Step Up youth participants practice job interview skills in mock interviews in preparation for summer internships. Interns will have just completed their Step Up work readiness training. Jeremiah Brown from AchieveMpls talks about the process.
Through the pandemic, more Minnesotans are having difficulty making ends meet and securing food for their families. Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota has been busy this year with its LSS Meals service providing pop-up meal distribution sites, online meals and expansion of its services. Kristin Schurrer from LSS Meals talks about the importance of nutrition and how they are providing it during these difficult times.
Film publicist Peter Schilling talks about the "odder" films being shown at the Heights Theater, and a special screening at Trylon Cinema.
Singer-songwriter Mae Simpson and her band play at the Dakota in a live-streaming event Saturday, March 13 at 7:00 p.m.
The Minneapolis sibling group, NUNNABOVE, talks to the Morning Show about their upcoming performance at the Dakota.
The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America (AFA) will host a free virtual Alzheimer’s educational conference for Minnesotans on Tuesday, March 16, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. as part of its 2021 national Educating America Tour. The conference, which is free and open to everyone, will allow participants to learn from, and ask questions of, health, caregiving and legal experts. CEO Chuck Fuschillo talks about the conference.
State Climatologist Luigi Romolo encourages listeners to join CoCoRaHS, the Community Collaborative Rain, Hail and Snow Network. Volunteer weather observers collect precipitation data and other information to help accuracy.
Margo Ashmore is the publisher of the Northeaster Newspaper, she talks about what's happening in that area of Minneapolis over the next few weeks.
Patricia Hoolihan is a Twin Cities-based author. She talks about her new book "Hands and Heart Together: Daily Meditations for Caregivers."
Erin Waterbury from LSS Behavioral Services talks about children and mental health during the pandemic.
Katia Cardenas and DJ Michel.Be talk about the upcoming classes for students interested in jazz and all music. Registration deadline is today, March 5, 2021.
Corky Siegel and his Chamber Blues ensemble have a show Saturday night (March 6, 2021) called EXTRAVAGANZA featuring several special guest artists.
Superintendent Ed Graff from Minneapolis Public Schools talks about secondary students returning to in-person learning.
Sommelier Jill Mott talks about Sauvignon blanc and highlights one of her favorite female winemakers in honor of Women's History Month.
Craig Rice from the MSP Film Society talks about the Italian Film Festival and what's new on the Virtual Cinema.
Kate Roberts, Exhibit Developer for the MN Historical Society, talks about the new exhibit Extraordinary Women, opening March 6th.
If you’re caring for a loved one, possibly with a disability or an older adult, there is an option under the Home and Community Based Waiver program through the State of Minnesota that gives individuals control and choice to direct their own services. It’s called Consumer Directed Community Supports and Tory Merhar with PICS, a subsidiary organization of Lutheran Social Service, talks about the benefits of this service option for families.
Film publicist Peter Schilling talks about some of the films showing for the Italian Film Festival, and a new book from someone at the Trylon Cinema that celebrates the 25th anniversary of the film, Fargo.
Shawn Harris-Berry is the Associate Superintendent of Minneapolis Public Schools and Dirk Tedmon is from the Communications Department. They talk about bringing secondary students and Transition Plus students back to in-person learning.
Dance troupe Rhythmically Speaking has a new show this weekend called "RadioBody: The Screendance Iteration" featuring Radiohead covers done by guitarist Mike Lauer. Artistic Director Erinn Liebhard talks about the show.
Margo Ashmore from the Northeaster Newspaper updates the news over the last two weeks and talks about upcoming events.
MNspin is a resource provided by the Hennepin County Library to provide Minnesota musicians with a stipend and a space to share their music with the world. The submissions window is now open.
Ashley Grell is the Step Up Manager of Employer Engagement from AchieveMpls. She talks about an upcoming event on Feb. 24 for employers seeking student interns.
Shannon Doyle is from LSS FInancial Counseling. She talks about the latest extension for those repaying student loans.
Gospel singer Robert Robinson celebrates Martin Luther King, Jr. and Black History Month live at the Dakota on Sunday, Feb. 21.
The President and CEO of Jeremiah Program, Chastity Lord, talks about the services they offer.
Craig Rice from the MSP Film Society talks about a new series of short films called Our Right To Gaze, along with new offerings in the Virtual Cinema.
Sommelier Jill Mott from Henry & Son talks about trumpeter Dizzy Reece and the delicious, dependable wines that go with his music.
State climatologist Luigi Romolo talks about warming temperatures and how this stretch of cold stacks up to other frigid February months in Minnesota's recorded history.
Michele Fournier from LSS Housing Services talks about the impact of the pandemic on housing for Minnesotans and how new emergency assistance might be able to help.
Prudence Johnson and Dan Chouinard have four shows coming up at Crooners Supper Club Saturday and Sunday.
Film publicist Peter Schilling talks about films showing at Walker Art Center, the MSP Film Society's Virtual Cinema, and the Trylon Cinema.
Sara Eugene from Minneapolis Public Schools' Culinary and Wellness Services talks about free meals available to students during the pandemic, whether students are learning in person or from a distance.
Craig Rice from the MSP Film Society talks about a new viewing opportunity called Our Right To Gaze, and updates us on what's showing on the Virtual Cinema.
State Climatologist Luigi Romolo talks about the current cold spell with no end in sight.
Margo Ashmore is the publisher of the Northeaster Newspaper and she gives us an update on news in Northeast Minneapolis.
Stages Theatre Co. continues its out-of-the-box offerings for families with Stone Soup. Artistic Director Sandy Boren-Barrett talks about the show.
With Valentine's Day approaching, Kay Kinkel from LSS Behavioral Health talks about healthy relationships.
Acoustic Deathwish is drummer Dave King, bassist Anthony Cox and saxophonist Brandon Wozniak. They play at Crooners Saturday night, and you can stream the show if you're unable to attend in person.
Minnesota's Maud Hixson celebrates music associated with Judy Garland at Crooners Supper Club Saturday, Feb. 6 at 5:30 p.m.
Craig Rice from the MSP Film Society talks about which films are part of the Great Northern Festival, and what's new on the Virtual Cinema.
Sommelier Jill Mott from Henry & Son talks about classic wines with a twist, and why they remind her of a certain jazz artist.
Superintendent Ed Graff from Minneapolis Public Schools talks about a return to in-person learning for elementary grades and an upcoming Virtual Q&A.
Punxsutawney Phil saw his shadow today, indicating another 6 weeks of winter. State Climatologist Luigi Romolo talks about the tradition and Phil's accuracy.
Kim Miller with LSS Financial Counseling talks about how the pandemic is affecting our spending and personal finances – just as holiday credit card bills are coming due.
Guitarist/bassist Pavel Jany talks about his new album, Who's There, including performances from local and international artists.
Craig Rice from the MSP Film Society talks about which films are showing as part of The Great Northern festival, and what's new on the Virtual Cinema.
Pianist/vocalist Karrin Allyson returns to Crooners for two shows this weekend. She talks about being on the road, master classes, and the late Debbie Duncan.
Atlantis Quartet is doing a live stream from the Hook & Ladder on January 29. Guitarist Zacc Harris talks about the upcoming show, returning to the stage, and his new online project.
Cia Sautter, artistic director of Storydance Theater, talks about an upcoming event, The Garden: A Refuge, featuring music, poetry and dance.
State Climatologist Luigi Romolo talks about the warmer-than-average January, despite cooler temps this week.
Margo Ashmore, publisher of the Northeaster News, talks about news in Northeast Minneapolis.
Allycia Wolff from LSS talks about Supported Decision Making, and how it differs from conservatorship or guardianship.
Phil Gwoke is the Managing Director of Bridgeworks, a company that's been bridging generational divides for decades. He talks about a series of seminars available now to Minneapolis educators and Twin Cities employers.
Wanda Felder from MPS talks about registering for in-person learning, and registering for school in the fall.
Craig Rice from the MSP Film Society talks about new offerings on the Virtual Cinema, and the films that are a part of the upcoming The Great Northern Festival.
Today is Martin Luther King Jr. Day, a day to honor the Civil Rights leader who used nonviolence to dismantle racism, work for justice and create racial equity in our community. Paul Slack, a social justice advocate for Lutheran Social Service shares his reflections about this day, and invites us to consider ways we can continue the important work of Dr. King.
Film publicist Peter Schilling talks about the Sundance Film Festival screenings at Riverview Theater, a series celebrating books turned into film/tv, and new screenings at the Trylon Cinema.
Theresa Stets is a Step Up Youth Services Manager for AchieveMpls. Step Up is a program that places students in Minneapolis ages 14-21 in summer internships. The application window is now open.
Craig Rice from the MSP Film Society talks about several new offerings in their Virtual Cinema.
The International Bluegrass Music Association has started a grant program whose goal is to encourage people of color to play bluegrass. The program is open to organizations and individuals, and the deadline date this first round is Jan 31, 2021. Phil Nusbaum, host of Bluegrass Saturday Morning, interviewed Nancy Cardwell and Richard Brown about the program, called The Arnold Shultz Fund.
State Climatologist Luigi Romolo talks about the top 5 weather events of 2020 as voted on by Minnesota residents.
Margo Ashmore is the publisher of the Northeaster Newspaper and provides an update on news in NE Mpls.
Kerry Casserly is the artistic director of Lundstrum Performing Arts. She talks about Dancemania! for special needs students, starting Wednesday, Jan. 13.
Jan Haugrud is with LSS Behavioral Health and talks about beating the "winter blues" in Minnesota.
Superintendent Ed Graff from Minneapolis Public Schools talks about the return to in-person instruction for Pre-Kindergarten through 5th grade students.
Artistic Director Sandy Boren-Barrett talks about the four new Out-of-the-Box theater experiences offered by Stages Theatre Co.
Craig Rice from the MPS Film Society talks about the continuation of the offering of two popular films, 76 Days and Louis van Beethoven.
Sommelier Jill Mott, from Henry & Son, talks about wines inspired by the jazz flute of Hubert Laws.
Mary Ghebremeskal is the Student Rep to the Minneapolis School Board. She talks about her responsibilities and what she hopes to achieve.
State Climatologist Luigi Romolo answers a listener question about inverted sun dogs, complete with photos.
Kate LePage from Lutheran Social Service of MN talks about human trafficking prevention. January is Human Trafficking Awareness Month.
Comedian Lizz Winstead talks about how to watch her newest comedy special, Corona Borealis, recorded on a lake in Minnesota.
State Climatologist Luigi Romolo talks about December's blizzard and this week's expected snow.
Susan Fuchs-Hoeschen from LSS Behavioral Health talks about making resolutions for the New Year and the difficulty of making changes.
Craig Rice from the MSP Film Society talks about the legacy of Al Milgrom and has updates on the Virtual Cinema.
Sounds of Blackness Music Director Gary Hines talks about how the ensemble filmed the show, streaming now through Broadway On Demand, The Ordway Center for the Performing Arts, and Sounds of Blackness.
State Climatologist Luigi Romolo talks about the snowfall expected Wednesday and the top weather events of 2020.
The short film "United We Play" features music by pianist/composer Marcus Roberts with the American Symphony Orchestra, led by Leon Botstein. Roberts and Botstein talk about the film and the music.
Pianist/composer George Maurer and singer/actor Ann Michels talk about their 22nd annual holiday show coming up at The Dakota on Wed 12/23.
Natasha Oreskovich is the Senior Program Manager of The StreetWorks Collaborative. A program of Lutheran Social Service of MN, StreetWorks is a collaborative of youth-serving nonprofits that have provided street-based outreach to youth experiencing homelessness in the Metro area since 1994. Natasha talks about how StreetWorks reaches youth, new challenges with COVID-19, and how we as a community can help.
Film publicist Peter Schilling offers up some recommendations for films to stream from the comfort of your home, including a series of films from Hong Kong director Wong Kar Wai at the Trylon Cinema and the British Arrow Awards from Walker Art Center.
Daren Johnson is the Director of Extended Learning at Minneapolis Public Schools. He talks about the upcoming registration deadline for after-school programs for K-8th graders.
Jevetta Steele talks about the show her family will present at The Dakota Friday, Dec. 16, 2020. The livestream will be rebroadcast on Saturday, Dec. 17.
Pianist Nachito Herrera talks about his show streaming from The Dakota tonight, Weds. Dec. 16, 2020, and on becoming the first Cuban-American signed as a Steinway artist.
Davina Lozier from Davina and the Vagabonds talks about their new holiday album and their upcoming New Year's Eve show at The Dakota.
Karen DeBaun from LSS Behavioral Health talks about mental health during the holiday season.
Nicholas David talks about his upcoming livestream from The Dakota. His annual St. Nick's Day show is Saturday, Dec. 12, 2020 at 7:00 p.m.
Celina Martina is the Executive Dir. of Engagement and External Relations for Minneapolis Public Schools. She talks about the school request process and a new website to help adults navigate the process.
Sandy Boren-Barrett, artistic director of Stages Theatre Co., talks about their new Out-of-the-Box experience called 'Twas the Night.
Craig Rice from the MSP Film Society talks about what's showing on the Virtual Cinema, including Coded Bias.
Sommelier Jill Mott from Henry & Son talks about how Oscar Peterson reminds her of rosés that look like red wines and red wines that look like rosés.
Ballet Co.Laboratory presents The Snow Queen virtually. Artistic Director Zoé Henrot talks about the production and how to participate/view.
State Climatologist Luigi Romolo talks about the unseasonably warm(er) temperatures and explains what graupel is.
Pianist Larry McDonough talks about playing music during the pandemic and shares a track from a backyard concert he gave in the fall.
Larry McDonough is Senior Minnesota Counsel of the National Anti-Eviction Project of the Lawyers Committee for Civil Rights Under Law. He talks about evictions during the COVID-19 pandemic. Larry is also an active jazz pianist. In part one of our conversation, we talk about evictions.
Superintendent of Minneapolis Public Schools Ed Graff talks about the upcoming Virtual School Request Kick-Off on Saturday, Dec. 5 starting at 10 a.m.
Cierra Burnaugh is a Recruitment Coordinator for Human Resources at Minneapolis Public Schools. She talks about 2 job openings and a new monthly series called Community Job Talk.
The Minneapolis Public Schools Virtual School Request Kick-off is Saturday, December 5 from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Martha Swanson, Director of Student Placement and Enrollment Services talks about the event and the request process.
Jenn Kostek from Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota talks about the free homebuying services offered.
Amber Spaniol is the Director of Health Services from Minneapolis Public Schools. She talks about the district dialing back support services while case rates of COVID-19 sharply rise.
Craig Rice from the MSP Film Society talks about virtual cinema offerings, and the return of their We The People series which offers free films and community conversations online.
Sommelier Jill Mott from Henry & Son talks about Ruth Lewandowski Wines from California.
State Climatologist Luigi Romolo talks about the high temperature records set at the beginning of November in Minnesota.
Ashley Hall from Lutheran Social Service works directly with Veterans and their family members to ensure they have the support they need to manage the challenges of daily life through the CORE Program and the Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs.
Film publicist Peter Schilling talks about a "rubble film" showing at the Heights Theater and the Frederick Wiseman series running at the MSP Film Society.
Superintendent of Minneapolis Public Schools, Ed Graff, talks about phases of instruction during the pandemic, the recent School Board election, and changing the starting and ending time for school.
Craig Rice from the MSP Film Society talks about the films offered on their virtual cinema.
Molly Siebert and Lisa Purcell are District Program Facilitators for K-12 Social Studies and Ethnic Studies at Minneapolis Public Schools. They are hoping the district will vote to make ethnic studies a requirement for graduation at MPS.
State Climatologist Luigi Romolo talks about the warm start to November, and how to contact him with your weather- and climate-related questions.
November is National Adoption Month. Heidi Wiste from Lutheran Social Service talks about the adoption process, and how LSS works with Children's Home Society to find homes for children in Minnesota.
Ashley Musana is the Career Exposure Coordinator for AchieveMpls. Ashley talks about upcoming career fairs, the need for volunteers, and how to help students with career and college readiness.
Charlotte Kinzley is the manager of Homeless and Highly Mobile Student Services at MPS. She talks about the services available to students and how to get help.
Ariel Pinkerton is co-artistic director of Fortune's Fool Theatre. She talks about their new production "To Breed, or Not to Breed" and safety measures in place for performers and audience members.
Craig Rice from the MSP Film society gives an update on what's showing in the Virtual Cinema.
Sommelier Jill Mott talks about her recent road trip to California to visit wineries from a social distance, including Stirm Wine Co.
Sandy Boren-Barrett is the Artistic Director of Stages Theatre Co., and she talks about their new experience called "Enchanted Mystery: A Detect The Story Adventure."
Janet Salo from Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota talks about Kinship Caregivers. Over the last several years, there has been an increase in the number of children living with extended family or close family friends, from an average of roughly 2.4 million children 10 years ago to an average of almost 2.6 million children more recently, according to the Annie E. Casey Foundation.
Charisma Smith is a Family Engagement Specialist with Minneapolis Public Schools. She talks about her work with the Black Parent Advisory Council.
October is National Substance Abuse Prevention Month. For some people who struggle with substance abuse, isolation and stress during the pandemic can amplify difficulties staying sober. Nicolette Johnson with Lutheran Social Service Behavioral Health tells us how to recognize substance use issues, how to best support our loved ones who are struggling and addresses misconceptions about substance abuse.
Parents in the Minneapolis schools should make their voice heard by Monday in a survey about the way they want their kids’ education delivered later this year. Eric Moore from MPS discusses this survey, and how the data will be applied.
State Climatologist Luigi Romolo talks about a warmer-than-normal October ahead, and answers a question emailed in from a listener.
Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota is looking for volunteers to reach out to provide companionship and support to older Minnesotans through a program called Neighbor to Neighbor Companions. Melissa Grimmer joins the Morning Show to talk about how to volunteer.
Peter Schilling talks about the upcoming Cine Latino film festival from the MSP Film Society, and also the "Ha! Ha! Homicide" series of murder comedies playing at the Heights Theater starting on Oct. 8th.
Sommelier Jill Mott explains what "flor" is and recommends a couple of wines and a local beer.
Annie Johnson, manager of the Minnesota History Museum, talks about the reopening Oct. 1.
State Climatologist Luigi Romolo talks about the weeks ahead and how Doppler radar works.
Comedian and Twin Cities-native Lizz Winstead talks about her upcoming show at Crooners and what it was like in New York City in the spring.
Logan Sand with Lutheran Social Service’s SELF Program (Seeing and Exploring Life’s Future) discusses how parents can best empower their children and learn where to start when it comes to sex education.
Antony Fisher is the District Director of Athletics at Minneapolis Public Schools. He discusses how sports are proceeding during the COVID-19 pandemic, and how he feels about the State High School League's decision to hold football and volleyball this fall.
Vocalist Jennifer Eckes talks about her upcoming show celebrating hits from the 60s in White Bear Lake with crooner Arne Fogel, pianist Rick Carlson and bassist Keith Boyles.
Craig Rice from the MSP Film Society talks about what's showing at their Virtual Cinema, including a documentary about the alto saxophonist, Frank Morgan.
Senior Research Specialist Ivy Schlegel from Greenpeace USA talks about plastics recycling. Reduce, reuse and recycle.
State Climatologist Luigi Romolo talks about the Autumnal Equinox and dry conditions along the North Shore.
G. Phillip Shoultz, Associate Conductor of VocalEssence, talks about the WITNESS Program going online and getting back to rehearsals.
Tim Ollhoff from LSS Behavioral Health talks about the importance of establishing a work-life balance and offers tips for doing so, including a service from LSS called NuVantage.
Julie Danzl is the Student Wellness Manager for Culinary & Wellness Services at Minneapolis Public Schools. She talks about food distribution during this school year.
Danielle Grant talks about how AchieveMpls is still helping students with college and career readiness during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Craig Rice from the MSP Film Society talks about what's showing at their Virtual Cinema.
Sommelier Jill Mott talks about a selection of Oktoberfest beers available this season.
Vocalist Connie Evingson and pianist Jon Weber talk about their shows this week as part of Jazz Fest Live at Crooners Supper Club. Shows are Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights.
State Climatologist Luigi Romolo talks about the haze in the sky, possibly from fires on the West Coast.
David Pinsky, Senior Plastics Campaigner for Greenpeace, has recently authored a report called "Reusables Are Doable" looking at reusable containers in retail settings during the COVID-19 pandemic.
LSS Financial Counselor Mary Ellen Kaluza talks about how to handle loaning money to adult children, parents and friends.
Trumpeter Solomon Parham talks about the show he recorded for the Selby Ave JazzFest Saturday.
Writer and saxophonist Richard Terrill launches his new book on Facebook Live Sunday, Sept. 13, 2020 and plays with the Larry McDonough Quartet.
Associate Superintendent of Minneapolis Public Schools, LaShawn Ray, talks about the start to this year's school year.
Ginger Commodore and friends will sing Stevie Wonder's hits Saturday night at the Chanhassen Dinner Theater.
Craig Rice from the MSP Film Society talks about their current virtual cinema offerings.
State Climatologist Luigi Romolo talks about the cold front gripping the state and why you can see your breath when it's above freezing.
Karl Reichert, executive director for Textile Center of Minnesota, talks about a new months-long initiative with several shows called "We Are The Story" which includes a partnership with the Women of Color Quilters Network.
Dr. Barbara Chromy is a mental health specialist for Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota. She talks about students returning to college.
Minnesota guitarist Cory Wong and saxophonist Dave Koz play two shows at Crooners Supper Club Sunday, Sept. 06. Hear Cory talk about the gigs, Dave Koz, and hear one of his newest tracks.
Film publicist Peter Schilling talks about an obscure animated film playing at the Trylon Cinema and the uniqueness of the Criterion streaming service.
The Superintendent of Minneapolis Public Schools, Ed Graff, talks about returning to school next week with distance learning, resumption of meal distribution, and support services for students and staff.
Doug Little, founder and flutist for Charanga Tropical, talks about the history of charanga music and the band's upcoming outdoor gig at Crooners Supper Club Saturday, Sept. 5th.
Sommelier Jill Mott, from Henry & Son, talks about an handful of rosés and a St. Paul beer to enhance your Labor Day Weekend.
State climatologist Luigi Romolo talks about how August wrapped up, and how you can learn more about weather, meteorology and climatology.
State climatologist Luigi Romolo talks about the derecho that pummeled central Iowa early last week.
Jill Mott, sommelier from Henry & Son, talks about the grape Riesling and her weekend adventures.
Interim Artistic Director Christina Baldwin from the Jungle Theater talks about the upcoming Shine A Light festival, running from Aug. 20-30.
Kim Miller from LSS Financial Counseling talks about the credit scores, rebuilding credit and the importance of having good credit.
Amber Spaniol, Health Services Director for Minneapolis Public Schools talks about school this fall.
Craig Rice from MSP Film talks about the Virtual Cinema offering, Jazz On A Summer's Day.
State climatologist Luigi Romolo talks about the storms that swept through the metro overnight Sunday night and how hail forms.
The dance collective, Rhythmically Speaking, mounts its summer show from home this weekend. Artistic director Erinn Liebhard talks about the upcoming performance.
Vocalist Leslie Vincent talks about her Monday night show at Crooners and her new album.
Markie Gohman, from Lutheran Social Service's Behavioral Health talks about coping with grief and loss.
Film publicist Peter Schilling talks about seeing The Wizard of Oz in technicolor at the Heights Theater and Ealing comedies playing at the Trylon.
Superintendent of Minneapolis Public Schools, Ed Graff, talks about returning to distance learning in the fall.
Peter Zelles, a clinical psychologist in St. Paul, talks about coping during the pandemic.
Craig Rice from the MSP Film Society talks about the continuation of the documentary about John Lewis, called "Good Trouble".
Julie Praska-Moser is a regional manager with Caregiver Respite from Lutheran Social Service. She talks about pandemic fatigue.
State climatologist Luigi Romolo talks about unseasonably cool weather and the improvement around the state of drought conditions.
Craig Rice from MSP Film talks about their series of community viewings and conversations called "We The People" and Craig updates what's coming and going from the virtual cinema.
Children’s Theatre Company presents the virtual premiere of A Kids Play About Racism, a theatrical adaptation of Jelani Memory’s A Kids Book About Racism. Emily talks with the CTC's Artistic Director, Peter Brosius.
State Climatologist Luigi Romolo talks about "mega-rain" events like the one that hit southern Minnesota on July 25, 2020.
Kathy Lahr is a parenting specialist from Lutheran Social Service who is going to share how parents are doing these days and what parents can do to navigate these difficult times.
Film publicist Peter Schilling talks about the upcoming series of Martin Scorsese films showing at Trylon Cinema and Heights Theater.
Eric Moore is a Senior Officer of Accountability, Research and Equity at Minneapolis Public Schools.
Craig Rice from the MSP Film Society talks about Virtual Cinema, Cine Latino and the ongoing French film festival.
State climatologist Luigi Romolo talks about how to look for veering and backing winds in the sky to forecast the weather.
Director and President of the Minneapolis Institute of Arts talks about reopening the museum with COVID-19 prevention measures in place.
Shannon Doyle from Lutheran Social Service of MN talks about various financial scams that have emerged during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Karen DeVet is a Senior Operations Officer with Minneapolis Public Schools, and she talks about some of the options and challenges for returning to school in the fall.
State Climatologist Luigi Romolo talks about how clouds get to the point of saturation.
The website Music in Minnesota has launched a fundraiser for iconic music venues around the state that have been shut down during the COVID-19 pandemic. Writer and photographer Tom Smouse talks about the fundraiser.
Sarah Northrup from the LSS Training and Education Center talks about job searching during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Film publicist Peter Schilling talks about the films showing at the Trylon Cinema in Longfellow and the Heights Theater in Columbia Heights starting today, and how each venue is handling social distancing.
Minneapolis Public Schools Superintendent Ed Graff talks about transportation and returning to school in the fall.
Sommelier Jill Mott from Henry & Son talks about three white wines that can help you beat the heat this summer.
State climatologist Luigi Romolo gives a recap of the weather in June and talks about the National Weather Service's proposed changes to the language they use to alert us of potential weather threats.
April Sanderson from Lutheran Social Service of MN gives helpful tax advice and reminds us that the deadline is July 15, 2020.
Jordan McNiven teaches 4th grade at Hiawatha Academies. He was named one of the nation's top inspiring teachers and received the National University System-Sanford Teacher Award and $10,000.
State climatologist Luigi Romolo talks about the weather ahead and what "heat index" means.
Ashley Nitzkorski is a dietician for the Culinary and Wellness Services at Minneapolis Public Schools. She talks about providing meals for students throughout the summer.
The 2020 Census deadline is approaching. Erin Sutton is Senior Director of Advocacy with Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota and she talks about the importance of filling out your census form.
Bassist Billy Peterson plays a set of duo shows with Andrew Walesch this week and then Billy is joined by his family for a show on Sunday.
Craig Rice from the MSP Film Society talks about films coming and going from their virtual cinema, and what's showing free as part of the community screenings and conversations.
State climatologist Luigi Romolo talks about the weather ahead this week and he explains the summer solstice.
Kim Dettmer, is the senior director of Disaster Services and Camp Noah at Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota. She talks about how LSS helps families in need.
Guitarist Scott Keever talks about the solo show he'll perform (stream) Saturday, June 20 and staying creative during the pandemic.
G. Phillip Shoultz III, VocalEssence Associate Conductor, talks about Sunday's event with songs that honor fathers and the father figures in all our lives and songs that demand our attention and call us into action.
Julie Schultz Brown is executive director of communications and marketing at Minneapolis Public Schools. She talks about the different ways school might proceed in the fall.
Craig Rice from MSP FIlm talks about what's coming and going from the virtual screen, and which films are screening to the community for free.
State climatologist Luigi Romolo talks about hot and humid weather heading to Minnesota, and how a tropical depression ended up in the state for the first time in recorded history.
Vocalist Lucia Newell will sing a show at Crooners Supper Club Tuesday night. She'll be joined by Joan Griffith (guitar, mandolin, bass, etc) and Clea Galhano (recorder) for a night of Brazilian music.
Alissa Dott at Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota leads the Host Homes effort for people with disabilities statewide and they are seeking Host Home families.
Film publicist Peter Schilling talks about Spike Lee and his new film opening today, Da 5 Bloods.
Minneapolis Kids from Minneapolis Public Schools provides in-person child care for children entering 1st - 7th grades in the fall. Amy Frey, program manager, talks about it.
Craig Rice from the MSP Film Society talks about films showing in free community screenings with scheduled online discussions.
Craig Rice from the MSP Film Society talks about films showing in free community screenings with scheduled online discussions.
Craig Rice from the MSP Film Society talks about films showing in free community screenings with scheduled online discussions.
Craig Rice from the MSP Film Society talks about films showing in free community screenings with scheduled online discussions.
Jill Mott, sommelier from Henry & Son, talks about why Kölsch is a perfect choice for a summer beer.
State climatologist Luigi Romolo talks about how Tropical Storm Cristobal will affect the Upper Midwest.
Johan Madrigal Torres, financial counselor and program coordinator with LSS Financial Counseling, will let you know how Lutheran Social Service can help you achieve your home ownership goals.
Duo Charmin Michelle and Joel Shapira have been performing together for more than 20 years. The vocalist and guitarist just released their newest album, Butterfly Wings, which you can order on Joel's website.
Minneapolis Public Schools Superintendent Ed Graff talks about food distribution, wrapping up the school year, summer school and mental health support.
Singers Ginger Commodore and Jesse Larson perform tonight at Crooners' Drive-In Series. Ginger talks about the show and more.
Dan Newton talks about the upcoming show from Cafe Accordion Orchestra at Crooners' Drive-In Series.
State climatologist Luigi Romolo talks about the possibility for severe weather and gives a recap of May's weather.
Singer Joyann Parker performs two shows Monday, June 1st as Crooners Supper Club starts its drive-in concert series. Her 7:00 show will be broadcast live on Jazz88.
Melinda Stapley is the Minneapolis Public Schools coordinator for summer programs. She talks about what summer school will look like.
Jill Mott, sommelier from Henry & Son, talks about wines from Slovenia and a new seasonal beer from Bent Paddle.
State climatologist Luigi Romolo gives an overview of the week ahead, talks about drought conditions in the northern half of Minnesota, and what he thinks about when he looks at the sky.
Andy Qualy is program director with LSS CORE Veterans Program. He talks about how the Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs has teamed up with LSS to help members of the military transition back into civilian life and address unique challenges they and their families face.
Minneapolis Public Schools Superintendent Ed Graff talks about graduation ceremonies, how summer school will proceed, meal distribution and the continuation of mental health support over the summer.
AchieveMpls President and CEO Danielle Grant talks about how the organization has pivoted to help students from a distance with college and career readiness. She talks about the Step-Up internship summer program.
Peter Schilling shares a birthday this weekend with four individuals attached to the film industry. He shares recommendations of films by, for and about these individuals.
Craig Rice from the MSP Film Society talks about this week's international film festival: MSPIFF 39 Redefined.
Stephen Rueff is the Chair of Arts Entrepreneurship at the Minneapolis College of Art and Design. He talks about his current project, Irrepressible Art, where he invites artists to share the work they're creating during the COVID-19 pandemic.
State Climatologist Luigi Romolo talks about several inches of rain, fire danger and the first named storm of the hurricane season.
Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota is delivering hot and frozen meals to older Minnesotans for decades. Kristin Schurrer is statewide senior director for LSS Meals and talks about the various services.
Dr. Anne Gearity is a consultant with Minneapolis Public Schools, and works with schools to help students and staff work through unique needs, mental health supports, and promote social and emotional learning.
Bassist and singer Barb Byrnstad from the band Turn Turn Turn talks about their new album.
Craig Rice from MSP Film talks about how you can participate in and watch films during the 39th Minneapolis-St. Paul International Film Festival.
Sommelier Jill Mott from Henry & Son has suggestions for wines to pair with spicy food.
Heather Kamia is a program director with Metro Youth and Family Services from Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota. She talks about resources for parents during the pandemic.
MPS Superintendent Ed Graff talks about how graduation will proceed and current plans for summer school.
The 39th Minneapolis-St. Paul International Film Festival will be online next week, as Peter Schilling explains.
Guitarist Zacc Harris, bassist Chris Bates, drummer JT Bates and pianist Bryan Nichols will each perform a solo set Friday night starting at 7:00 on Zoom.
State climatologist Luigi Romolo talks about the weather ahead for the week and some of his favorite weather apps.
Jodi Raidt is the statewide program manager for foster care with Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota. She talks about the ongoing need for families to foster children.
Associate Superintendent of High Schools with Minneapolis Public Schools, Dr. Shawn Harris-Berry, talks about how the district will manage grading and graduation during the Covid-19 crisis.
Craig Rice from the MSP Film Society talks about the online film offerings and the redesigned MSPIFF.
It's the 50th anniversary of Earth Day. MCAD's Stephen Rueff talks about the importance of the day, and how to celebrate all week long.
Craig Hedberg from the University of Minnesota's School of Public Health gives us an update on the coronavirus.
Lisa McCann from the St. Paul Art Collective talks about this weekend's virtual Spring Art Crawl.
Artist Susan Hensel talks about her work and how the Minnesota State Fair changed her art.
Derek Francis is Manager of Counseling Services with Minneapolis Public Schools. He talks about how to help students cope with canceled proms and canceled graduation ceremonies.
Film publicist Peter Schilling talks about what movies other film buffs are watching while observing the stay-at-home order.
MPS Superintendent Ed Graff talks about how the first week of distance learning has gone.
Stephen Rueff from the Minneapolis College of Art and Design talks about the sites he's created for artists to share their work called Irrepressible Art.
Dr. Patrick Porter talks about how to reduce stress and anxiety, and his app called BrainTap.
Jennifer Cadwell-Vaughan is the Manager of Teacher Education and Curriculum Development with the Minnesota Historical Society. She talks about the free access to the Northern Lights eBook.
St. Paul artist Heather Friedli is an award-winning artist known for her work based off of the land and her heritage.
MPS Superintendent Ed Graff talks about launching distance learning, and some of the services the district is providing while school buildings are closed.
Prof. Craig Hedberg from the University of Minnesota's School of Public Health talks about the stay-at-home order, the antibody test announced by the U and Mayo, and wearing face masks.
Craig Rice from the MSP Film Society talks about the films you can stream from their website that would otherwise be in theaters.
Associate Conductor of VocalEssence, G. Phillip Shoultz, III talks about his daily live stream called Take Five with GPS, and the other ways the Twin Cities-based mixed choir is keeping people singing while staying home.
Minneapolis-based film director Phil Harder talks about his new release "Tuscaloosa" shot in the state of Minnesota and now streaming.
Cherrish Holland from Lutheran Social Service Financial Counseling talks about ways to manage funds during the pandemic.
St. Paul artist MaryBeth Garrigan talks about what paintings she's working on while staying close to home.
We can't visit theaters right now, but we can stream great movies. Peter Schilling has some suggestions.
MPS Superintendent Ed Graff talks about distance learning, and providing child care and meals while schools are closed during the pandemic.
Jeff Radford from Hennepin County Library talks about the streaming service for Minnesota musicians called MNspin.
On the Morning Show, I interview local musicians weekly. We can't talk about gigs right now, but we can still talk about music. I interviewed singer Connie Evingson about some of her favorite music to listen to for relaxation.
Professor Craig Hedberg from the U of M's School of Public Health talks with us about preventing the spread of COVID-19.
Trevor Johnson is the Senior Director of Behavioral Health at Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota. He has helpful tips for managing stress and anxiety in these difficult times.
Two representatives from St. Thomas University are looking to give nearly $100k in grant money to people of color who want to be teachers and they stopped by the Morning Show to talk about it.
Guitarist Tom Lieberman from Rio Nido talks about the trio's upcoming gig at Crooners this weekend.
AchieveMpls is holding mock interviews for students. College & Career Center manager Tiffany Enriquez talks about how you can help prepare students for their future careers.
The new principal at North Community High School, where our KBEM studios are located, stopped by the Morning Show to talk about the school.
Singer Lucia Newell sings Carnaval! A Night in Brazil, Tuesday night at Crooners Supper Club with Clea Galhano on recorder, Joan Griffith on guitar and Gordy Johnson on the bass.
Vocalists Arne Fogel and Jennifer Eckes talk about their upcoming show at the Hastings Art Center, "Fred Astaire At the Movies"
Vocalist Elaine Dame is coming back to Minneapolis to do an Ellington/Strayhorn show at Crooners Supper Club in the Dunsmore Room on Saturday, Jan. 4.
Pianist Jon Weber talks about his shows coming up at Crooners Supper Club next week including solo shows and duo shows.
Pianist and harmonica player Corky Siegel and Randy Sabien play together this weekend at Crooners Supper Club. Corky called into the Morning Show to talk about the gigs.
Students can now apply for summer internships through the Step-Up program with the city of Minneapolis. Program Manager Theresa Angelopoulos stopped by the Morning Show to discuss Step-Up's application process.
Dave King, drummer and founding member of The Bad Plus talks about their upcoming holiday residency at the Dakota.
Singer/songwriter Paul Metsa celebrates forty years of gigging in the Twin Cities at the Parkway Theater tonight at 7:00.
Singer Peg Carrothers is doing a show in the beautiful Dunsmore Room at Crooners Supper Club Thursday, Dec. 26 at 6.
KBEM's new station manager, Dan Larkin, stopped by the Morning Show to talk about his new role at Jazz88.
Pianist Larry McDonough stopped by the Morning Show to talk about his upcoming show called "Festivus and Other Twisted Holidays"
Singer/songwriter Mankwe Ndosi is presenting a series of concerts called Great Black Music Mondays at Icehouse in December.
Vocalist Marilyn Maye will sing four shows in two days at Crooners Supper Club beginning Sunday.
Vocalist Connie Evingson has a busy month, starting with a show Thursday night at Nord Social Hall in Uptown.
Blues pianist Tom Hunter and Nashville guitarist Frank Johns meet up for a holiday show at Crooners this weekend.
Pianist Geoffrey Keezer plays two shows at Crooners Supper Club on Friday, Dec. 13, 2019.
Ashley Musana from AchieveMpls stopped by Jazz88 to talk about upcoming career events for high school students in the metro area.
Singer Mick Sterling performs An Andy & Bing Christmas with singer (and Super Bowl Champion) Ben Utecht. Sterling's 30 Days Foundation presents Sunday's concert free.
Singer/songwriter Nancy Harms talks about her new album "She" and her upcoming show at Crooners.
Heather Masse called into the Morning Show to talk about her new album with pianist Jed Wilson and the upcoming Prairie Home Christmas Show.
Natania & Ticket to Brasil will celebrate their CD release with a party at Icehouse Sunday, Nov. 24 at 6. Guitarist and composer Pavel Jany stopped by the Morning Show.
Christian McCleary from the St. Paul Community Literacy Consortium, Trey Edwards and DJ Brooks talk about the Rites of Passage Pathway and the Council for Black Male Success on Jazz88's Morning Show.
Davina Lozier from Davina and the Vagabonds talks about their upcoming three-night stand at Crooners.
Sixteen-year-old Sophia Kickhofel stopped by Jazz88's Morning Show to talk about her upcoming gig at Crooners in the Dunsmore Room.
Guitarist, vocalist and composer "Radio Joe" Demko has his CD release party with his band the Jazzbos on Monday, Nov. 18 at Mancini's in St. Paul.
Vocal quartet Moore by Four performs the Main Stage at Crooners Supper Club Monday, Nov. 18.
Mezzo-soprano Clara Osowski talks about her upcoming show with pianist Jeremy Walker, bassist Anthony Cox and drummer JT Bates at the Dakota on Sunday, Nov. 17.
Choral conductor, composer and all-around legend Dr. André Thomas conducts the Midwest premiere of his Mass: A Celebration of Love and Joy with VocalEssence
Retired U of MN professor Dr. John Wright was integral to the University adopting an African Studies program and played a powerful role during the takeover of Morrill Hall in 1969. He spoke with Jazz88's Emily Reese about that day, his life, and jazz.
Dancer Erinn Liebhard and trumpeter Bob DeBoer talk about their upcoming show at Icehouse on Sunday, Nov. 3.
The Ebony, Ivory & Spruce Trio stopped by the Morning Show to talk about blending classical and jazz, and their upcoming performance in White Bear Lake on Sunday, Oct. 27.
Guitarist, composer and producer Pavel Jany stopped by Jazz88's Morning Show to talk about an upcoming gig with Natania and Ticket to Brasil at the Dakota on Nov. 3.
Bobby Vandell sings Merle Haggard songs on the Main Stage at Crooners Supper Club on Friday, Oct. 25.
Trombonist Delfeayo Marsalis brings his Uptown Jazz Orchestra to Crooners Supper Club Wednesday, Oct. 16.
Vocalist Karrin Allyson has a show at the Dakota Sunday night at 7. She called into the Morning Show to chat about the performance.
Bassist Chris Bates, guitarist Dean Magraw and drummer Jay Epstein are in a group together called Red Planet along with pianist Bill Carrothers. They play Crooners Monday night.
Pianist Jeremy Walker, sax-man Brandon Wozniak, bassist Graydon Peterson and drummer Kevin Washington play music from two of John Coltrane's beloved albums: Coltrane Plays the Blues and Ballads at the Dakota tonight.
Pianist Laura Caviani celebrates the birthday of Thelonious Monk with her trio tonight at Crooners Supper Club. She called the Morning Show to talk about it.
Dan Newton's Cafe Accordion Orchestra plays "Midnight in Paris" at Crooners Supper Club Tuesday, Oct. 8th.
Paul Scholtz is a tenor and member of the Artistic Council for Cantus, an all-male vocal ensemble based in the Twin Cities. He talks about their upcoming show "One Giant Leap" and where you can see Cantus perform.
David Shay is an influenza expert with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. He called the Morning Show to talk about this winter's upcoming flu season and tips for staying well.
Joe Haus stopped by the Morning Show to talk about an upcoming performance by the Levante Guitar Duo, presented by the Minnesota Guitar Society.
Drummer Brian Blade talks about bringing the Life Cycles band to the Dakota to pay tribute to composer and vibist Bobby Hutcherson.
Soul blues singer and guitarist Johnny Rawls talks about his upcoming show at Crooners Supper Club on the Morning Show.
Guitarist Clay Ross from Ranky Tanky talks about their upcoming show at the Dakota Sunday, Sept. 22, 2019.
Nothando Zulu and Vusumuzi Zulu stopped by to talk about this year's Black Master Storytellers Festival, starting Thursday, Sept. 26, 2019.
The Culinary and Wellness arm of Minneapolis Public Schools will host its 8th annual Farm to School Community BBQ event Tuesday, Sept. 17, 2019. Kate Seybold came to Jazz88 to talk about the event.
AchieveMpls CEO Danielle Grant came by the Jazz88 Morning Show to talk about the services AchieveMpls provides to students throughout the year.
The University of St. Thomas is offering tens of thousands of dollars in grant money to increase the number of teachers of color in the state of Minnesota. Ea Porter is the Assistant Director of Community Engagement & Recruitment at the university. She stopped by the Morning Show to talk about the grant program and how to qualify.
Guitarists Ryan Picone and Jose Betanzos from the Red Hot Django Peppers stopped by Jazz88's Morning Show to talk about their show at Icehouse on Sunday, Sept. 8 from 11a - 2p
Singer Ginger Commodore on the Morning Show talking about the "Hot Buttered Classic Soul" show at Crooners Supper Club where she'll perform with Yolande Bruce and Jesse Larson.
Pianist Ben Sidran will play two shows at Crooners Supper Club this week. He called into the Morning Show to talk about the gigs, giving away his archives and playing in a trio setting.
Trumpeter Omar Abdulkarim and saxophonist Walter Chancellor are two of the performers for A Mini Jazz Fest at The New Cantina Mexican Restaurant at the Mall of America in Bloomington this weekend.
Pianist and good friend of the Morning Show Nachito Herrera came in to talk about his performance next week at the Dakota with several other Cuban musicians.
The Artistic Director and Founder of VocalEssence, Philip Brunelle, came to the Morning Show to discuss the choir's upcoming trip to Mexico City, Mexico.
Rocker mostly but also a crooner, Tina Schlieske will sing two shows at the Dakota on Thursday, Aug. 22, 2019. She talked to the Morning Show about switching genres and coming back home.
Singer Jearlyn Steele stopped by Jazz88's Morning Show to talk about her new series of shows at Crooners Supper Club.
Peter Schilling from the Heights Theater talks about the upcoming showing of The Man Who Laughs, the silent film with a character who inspired The Joker from the Batman comics.
Pianist Larry McDonough and his quartet will celebrate the 90th birthday of pianist Bill Evans with a show at the Black Dog in St. Paul Sunday night, Aug. 18 at 7 p.m.
Jesse Held is the so-called "Earl" of Earl Giles, a Minneapolis-based elixir company. He also runs the bar program at places like Parlour Bar, Constantine and Mercado. He joined Jazz88's foodie, Matt Gundrum, on today's Morning Show.
Howard Levy will play harmonica and piano, joined by guitarist Chris Siebold, at Crooners Saturday, Aug. 10, 2019. He talked to the Morning Show.
Momokusu Iwata performs "Jongara-bushi" a traditional shamisen melody, live at KBEM's Studio 1.
Japanese Shamisen virtuoso Momokusu Iwata visited the Jazz88 studios to play for us and talk about his concert.
Three members of the MN Acoustic Guitar Showcase will perform at Icehouse Sunday, July 21. They stopped by Jazz88 to talk about the show.
Connie Evingson came to Jazz88's Morning Show to talk about her upcoming performance with Moore By Four at Crooners Supper Club on Thursday, July 18.
A producer and two actors from Minneapolis Public Schools Community Ed production of The Addams Family Musical visited Jazz88's Morning Show.
Vocalist Maud Hixson came to Jazz88 to talk about her upcoming shows at Crooners and the Nicollet Island Inn, and her latest project.
Pianist Travis Anderson stopped by Jazz88 to talk about playing Disney music at the Dakota on Tuesday, July 16.
Clarinetist Tony Balluff talks about the upcoming Louis Armstrong Night presented by the Southside Aces at the Dakota on Sunday, July 14, 2019 at 7:00 p.m.
Gwen Matthews sings a tribune to Roberta Flack with Robert Robinson singing Donny Hathaway at Crooners Thursday, June 27, 2019 at 7:30 p.m.
Pianist David Hazeltine and bassist Billy Peterson have two shows at Crooners this week. David called into the Morning Show for a chat.
Saxophonist, singer and composer Grace Kelly plays at the Twin Cities Jazz Fest tonight at 6:00.
Nancy Harms is presenting her "Ellington At Night" show at Crooners Supper Club Saturday night at 7:30.
Jearlyn and Jevetta Steele will perform this Saturday at Crooners Supper Club's "Concerts Under the Stars" outdoor music series. Jearlyn talked with Jazz88's Morning Show.
Saxophonist James Carter talks about being a multi-instrumentalist, his organ trio, and headlining the Twin Cities Jazz Festival on Jazz88's Morning Show.
Jazz88's foodie, Matt Gundrum, talks with restaurant owner and chef Doug Flicker on the Morning Show.
Tenor saxist Brandon Wozniak talks about his upcoming shows with bassist Anthony Cox and drummer Dave King as the group Acoustic Deathwish at Vieux-Carre this weekend on the Morning Show.
Vocalist Maud Hixson will perform songs associated with Doris Day in the Dunsmore Room at Crooners Supper Club on June 9.
Singer, film critic, music critic, actor and author Rex Reed will perform in the Dunsmore Room at Crooners Supper Club on Sunday, June 2 at 7 p.m. and 9 p.m.
Associate conductor G. Phillip Shoultz, III of VocalEssence and Chadwick Phillips (a.k.a. Niles) of The Avant Garde talk about their show at Icehouse in Minneapolis tonight called Soul Sing.
Pianist Jeremy Walker teamed up with Garrick Comeaux and Consortium Carissimi to explore the similarities between music in the early Baroque era and jazz with two performances this weekend.
Pianist Senri Oe will perform his music as part of the Pan Asian Arts Festival at MOA on Saturday, May 4th, 2019. He stopped by the Morning Show to talk about the show.
Singer Sophia Shorai and pianist Tanner Taylor will play a show at Crooners Saturday evening with Dave Graf (trombone) and Dave Karr (tenor sax).
Bassist Erik Fratzke talks about two upcoming shows from Happy Apple at Crooners on Saturday, April 27th.
The Greg Byers Ensemble is lead by the cellist and bassist who bears the groups namesake. Greg is joined by Aaron Hedenstrom (Saxophone), Adam Meckler (Trumpet), Javier Santiago (Piano) and L.A. Buckner (Drums). The quintet tears through a energetic version of "7 Steps to Heaven" and an original from Greg called "Diversion." The session with Greg Byers originally aired April 12th 2019 on the Afternoon Cruise. Find out more from Greg at CelloGreg.com
Violinist Gary Schulte and Guitarist Robert Bell joined Kevin O'Connor live from Studio 1 on March 26th - They are one half of Twin Cities Hot Club. The four-piece (also including Stan Ponkin on guitar and Matt Peterson on bass) will play The Dakota for Easter brunch on April 16th.
The trio of Debbie Duncan, William Duncan & Robert Robinson came to Jazz88 ahead of their headline show at the Dakota on March 26th. Debbie, Robert, and William all on vocals and William playing the keys
Cabaret Star Marilyn Maye performs four shows at Crooners this weekend. She spoke with Jazz88's Emily Reese about the shows and her busy touring schedule.
Pianist/organist Bobby Lyle chats with Emily Reese on the Morning Show about his upcoming shows at Crooners Lounge and Supper Club to celebrate his 75th birthday.
Sommelier Jill Mott came to Jazz88 to talk about the drinking habits of U.S. Presidents in honor of President's Day.
Pianist Richard Johnson and his trio will play the entire 1959 "Time Out" album from Dave Brubeck at Vieux-Carre this week.
Minnesota Orchestra is spending the week in North Minneapolis, featuring events with the full orchestra and several smaller chamber groups through Jan. 27. The Orchestra's Vice President, Beth Kellar-Long, joined the Morning Show to talk about the week's events.
Minneapolis-based Atlantis Quartet came to Jazz88's Studio 1 to play a few tracks and have a chat about their origins, their influences and their new album, Hello Human. Zacc Harris plays guitar, Brandon Wozniak is the tenor sax player, Chris Bates is on bass and Pete Hennig plays drums in the quartet.
Toward the end of the interview, they talked about artists they're currently listening to, including: Nik Bärtsch and Ronin Knower (Louis Cole) Dawn of Midi Jonathan Finlayson Matthew Stevens / Walter Smith III: In Common and Lester Young, Coleman Hawkins and Louis Armstrong
Minnesota blues legend Cornbread Harris is featured on this edition of Live From Studio 1. The 91 year-old singer and pianist talks about skipping music lessons as a kid, playing gigs for the mob, and what keeps him busy these days.
Kyle Rucker of Ruck B Music stopped by the Jazz88 studios to talk about the work he does for music education in the community. He brought two young musicians along for the chat on Jazz88's Morning Show.
Sommelier Jill Mott talks about the New California, upcoming classes she's teaching, and the Jura and Savoie regions of France live on Jazz88's Morning Show with Emily Reese.
Clarinetist Evan Christopher plays at Vieux Carre to celebrate the tricentennial of New Orleans on Wednesday, Nov. 28. He stopped by Jazz88's studio to talk about the show and the city he calls home.
Pianist Larry McDonough and guitarist Joel Shapira play the music of Bill Evans and Jim Hall live at the Black Dog in St. Paul on Thurs., Nov. 15th from 7:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. They stopped by Jazz88's studio to talk about the show.
Tenor saxophonist Nelson Devereaux and his band played for us live in Jazz88's Studio 1, and then talked about his background and future as a musician.
The trio byerSelf combines jazz with poetry and visuals to create a unique musical experience, with Greg Byers on cello/bass, LA Buckner on drums/percussion and Javier Santiago on keys.
Vocalist Maud Hixson talks about her two upcoming shows; a Cole Porter-themed show at the Bloomington Center for the Arts, and a 1930s-themed show in the Dunsmore Room at Crooners.
Pianist Cameron Graves is bringing his trio to the Dakota Sunday, Nov. 4th at 7 p.m. He spoke with Jazz88's Emily Reese about the trio, the show, and his background.
Pianist Cyrus Chestnut spoke with Jazz88's Emily Reese about his upcoming shows at Vieux Carre, coming up September 25 & 26 at 7 pm and 9 pm.
Cuban pianist Harold Lopez-Nussa is bringing his trio to town for a show Monday, Sept. 17 at 7:00 p.m. He spoke with Jazz88's Emily Reese about the show, the trio and who he's listening to these days.
Pianist Geoffrey Keezer and his trio are playing the Dunsmore Room at Crooners Lounge and Supper Club this weekend with vocalist Gillian Margot. Sunday, Sept. 2nd at 6:30 p.m. Hear him talk with Jazz88's Emily Reese about the show.
Happy Apple's bassist, Erik Fratzke, talks about the Twin Cities trio's upcoming shows at the Dakota, what he gained learning guitar and bass simultaneously, and the possibility of new albums.
Keith Frazier is a founding member of Rebirth Brass Band, a New Orleans band that encourages you to dance. Frazier talked with Jazz88's Emily Reese about their upcoming shows at the Dakota.
"Bonnie Raitt meets Alabama Shakes?" True or not, Hannah von der Hoff is a unique talent. She has a show Friday 7/13 at Aster. A video and single goes out this week and she gave us an exclusive preview.
The Piano Prince of New Orleans, Davell Crawford, is playing at the Dakota Tuesday, July 10 and Wednesday, July 11. He spoke with Jazz88's Emily Reese about the shows and his habit of recording himself while he practices piano.
Brazilian singer, songwriter, guitarist and percussionist Vinicius Cantuaria is performing at the Dakota Wednesday, June 27 at 7:00 p.m. He spoke with Jazz88's Emily Reese about the show and the possibility of a new album.
Singer Dee Dee Bridgewater spoke with Jazz88's Emily Reese about her new album, "Memphis...Yes, I'm Ready" and her upcoming show on the main stage for the Twin Cities Jazz Festival in St. Paul on Saturday, June 23 at 8:30 p.m.
The 2018 Junior Iron Chef competition for Minneapolis Public Schools took place Thursday, May 10. Hear about the ways MPS is changing school lunches, and hear from the student winners of the competition.
Twin Cities trio Rio Nido stopped by Jazz88 to perform during the Morning Show in advance of their show at the Dakota Friday, Apr. 27 at 7:00.
WTF Is a five piece band from Minneapolis with Jazz and indie rock influences and stylings.
They just launched a kickstarter campaign to help release their upcoming debut album.
If you're wondering about the name WTF - it's the lead singer's initials, his name is Warren Thomas Fenzi, He recently sat down with Justus Sanchez for an interview and performance of this song called "Blacken the sun"
Pianist Senri Oe is a Grammy award winning pop artist from Japan who traded it all in to move to New York and study jazz. He stopped by the KBEM studios in advance of his show at Hamline University's Sundin Music Hall June 7, 2017. This is the extended version of Senri Oe's conversation with Emily Reese.