Cultural Manifesto: Recent Episodes
WFYI Public Media
Each week on Cultural Manifesto, Kyle Long reveals stories and sounds from the creative frontlines of the past and present. Through music, archives and artist interviews, discover how creators shape meaning with sound, in Indianapolis and well beyond. Tune in each week to this WFYI Public Media show for discoveries that will delight your ears and expand your understanding of our shared world.
Listen to a 2017 interview WFYI’s Kyle Long recorded with Brian Wilson, the visionary composer and producer behind the Beach Boys. He died on June 11, 2025, at the age of 82.The Beach Boys are one of the most critically acclaimed and commercially successful bands of all time, selling over 100 million records and charting 37 songs in the U.S. Top 40. Much of that success was due to Wilson’s visionary production style. which included unorthodox instrumentation, innovative recording techniques, and most notably the band’s iconic vocal harmonies. Those trademark vocal harmonies were directly inspired by the Indianapolis group The Four Freshmen. The Four Freshmen were formed on the campus of Butler University in 1948. Wilson credited the Four Freshmen as his main influence in crafting the Beach Boys’ sound. Wilson was such a big fan, he even recruited Four Freshmen arranger Dick Reynolds to work on several Beach Boys projects. During his conversation with WFYI, Wilson discussed his deep appreciation for The Four Freshmen.
This June, the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra will premiere a new work from the Indianapolis composer, vocalist and musician Hanna Benn. Benn’s piece is a double concerto for oboe and bassoon titled "A Through Line." Listen to an interview with Hanna Benn, along with ISO’s principal oboe Jennifer Christen and principal bassoon Ivy Ringel.Benn’s solo work defies classification, featuring intricate vocal layering with refined electronic production. She’s contributed to high profile projects across the modern music landscape. As a vocalist, she can be heard on Meshell Ndegeocello’s Grammy winning album "The Omnichord Real Book" and the Academy Award nominated soundtrack for "Everything Everywhere All at Once." As a composer, her work has been performed at Carnegie Hall.
Listen to an interview with Fort Wayne, Indiana-based musician, composer, arranger and producer Nitish Kulkarni. His latest album Indigo blends traditional Indian music with contemporary electronic sounds. Kulkarni began his musical journey as a tabla player, later expanding to keyboards and production. He released his debut album Synesthetic in 2015, and since then he’s released a steady stream of recordings. In addition to his solo work, Kulkarni has performed alongside legendary artists like Ustad Amjad Ali Khan and Shridhar Phadke.
Listen to an interview with the acclaimed Gary, Indiana composer and electronic music producer Jlin. Her music has been praised by Pitchfork, NPR, Vogue, Rolling Stone and The New York Times, and she’s collaborated with artists including Björk and Philip Glass. Born Jerrilynn Patton in 1987, Jlin’s bold, genre-defying work has reshaped the landscape of experimental electronic music. Her rhythmically dense and emotionally intense style emerged from footwork, a high-speed dance music rooted in the underground music culture of Chicago. But Jlin’s sound evolved over time, becoming an unmistakably original voice that transcends categorization. Jlin rose to prominence with her 2015 debut Dark Energy. The album was immediately hailed as a landmark in contemporary electronic music. Both The Quietus and The Wire named it Album of the Year, and Pitchfork included Dark Energy in its Top 20 Albums of 2015. Her follow-up album, Black Origami further solidified her status as a leading avant-garde composer. The album received almost universal acclaim, with The New York Times, Rolling Stone, NPR, and The Guardian including Black Origami in their the Best Albums of 2017 lists. Jlin’s latest, album Akoma has also garnered widespread critical acclaim. Beyond her solo releases, Jlin’s influence has expanded into the worlds of dance, classical music, and performance art. She has composed for the renowned Kronos Quartet and her music has been used by choreographers including Wayne McGregor and Kyle Abraham. Despite her international recognition, Jlin has remained firmly rooted in her hometown Gary, Indiana.
Listen to an interview with the musician and activist Taylor Hall. May is Mental Health Awareness Month, so Hall chose the month of May to release her latest collection of songs, Cheaper Than Therapy. During her recent conversation with WFYI’s Kyle Long, Hall said she hopes the project will help to destigmatize mental health and provide her fans with a message of hope.Also hear a conversation with Jenny Boyts, CEO of Forty5, a locally owned Indianapolis production company specializing in live music events. Forty5 owns and operates local venues including The Vogue and Turntable, and produces live concert series like Rock the Ruins at Holiday Park. Boyts rose to prominence in Indianapolis through her work with Indy Pride, serving as Indy Pride’s board president for 4 years. Boyts says the relationships she created while building community with Indy Pride have informed her work with Forty5.
Celebrate Asian American and Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander Heritage Month with music from musicians and composers connected to Indiana. Listen to pop, folk, electronic, classical, hip-hop, and psychedelic rock music featuring Indiana musicians representing Afghanistan, Vietnam, China, India, Myanmar and more.
Listen to an interview with historian Nicole Martinez-LeGrand, director of a new documentary titled Beyond el Barrio. The film focuses on the history of El Barrio, a small community of Mexican immigrants living on the Near Eastside of Indianapolis during the mid-20th Century.Also, hear an interview with musician Rick Espinoza. He grew up in El Barrio during the 1960s and performed Mexican music with the Indianapolis band Los Latinos.
Listen to an interview with the percussionist, composer and technologist Deantoni Parks, known for his genre-blending approach and boundary-pushing performances. Parks has collaborated with an extraordinary group of musicians, including Flying Lotus, Thundercat, Andre 3000, Mars Volta, Meshell Ndegeocello, John Cale, Sade and more. He’s also an accomplished composer, releasing critically acclaimed albums, under the name Technoself, and scoring films for directors including Paul Schrader and Mark Ruffalo. Parks was born and raised in Newnan, Georgia, but he’s spent the last few years living in Indianapolis.
Listen to an interview with legendary jazz saxophonist and composer Gary Bartz. Bartz has performed with Charles Mingus, Max Roach, Art Blakey, and McCoy Tyner. In 1970, Bartz joined Miles Davis' band, contributing to the seminal Live-Evil sessions. But its Bartz work as a bandleader during the 1970s that cemented his reputation as a jazz icon, from his recordings with the Mizell Brothers, to performances with his group Ntu Troop. A two-time Grammy Award winner, Bartz was recently named an NEA Jazz Master by the National Endowment for the Arts.
Listen to an interview with Kate Lamont and Devon Ashley. Kate Lamont is a versatile musician, singer, and songwriter known for her soulful voice and genre-blending approach to music. She rose to prominence in the early 2000s with MAB LAB—an experimental, Indianapolis-based band that explored jazz, rock, soul, and hip-hop. She was also a member of the folk ensemble Blueprintmusic. Kate launched her solo career in 2010 with the release of her album After the Rain. Her latest project is a remastered reissue of her self-titled 2013 album. That record was produced by prolific Indianapolis drummer Devon Ashley, best known for his work with The Last IV, The Lemonheads, The Pieces, and Simirit. Kate Lamont currently lives in Oakland, California—but she’ll be returning to Indianapolis on April 27 for a performance at the White Rabbit Cabaret.Also, listen to a new episode of Finding Etheridge with Mat Davis, an ongoing segment exploring the people and places connected to the Indianapolis poet Etheridge Knight. This week, Mat’s guest will be the Indianapolis poet, artist and dancer Mijiza Holiday.
Listen to an interview with Todd Rundgren, a pioneering musician, songwriter, and producer known for his eclectic style and innovative approach to technology in music. Rising to fame in the late 1960s with the band Nazz, Rundgren gained widespread acclaim with his 1972 solo album Something/Anything? which included the hit singles “Hello It’s Me” and “I Saw the Light.” Rundgren is also a sought-after producer, working on landmark albums by the New York Dolls, Hall & Oates, XTC, Meatloaf, The Psychedelic Furs, and Patti Smith. Rundgren has charted multiple Billboard hits and earned widespread critical acclaim. In 2021, he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Rundgren’s genre-defying work spans rock, pop, soul, and experimental electronic music. He’s been recognized as a visionary for his early adoption of music videos and interactive media. But his latest project looks into the past. Todd Rundgren will be performing music from the late songwriter Burt Bacharach in Indianapolis on April 18, as part of What The World Needs Now: The Burt Bacharach Songbook Live tour.Also hear an interview with Nnenna Freelon, a prolific jazz vocalist, whose career spans over three decades. She’ll be performing at the Jazz Kitchen on April 18th. Freelon issued her debut LP on Columbia Records in 1992, marking the start of an accomplished recordings career. Freelon’s music has attracted significant recognition, including seven Grammy nominations, and she’s collaborated with numerous jazz luminaries, including Ray Charles, Ellis Marsalis, Kenny Baron, Pat Metheny, Christian McBride Al Jarreau, and Herbie Hancock. Hear music from Freelon’s latest album, titled Beneath the Skin.
Listen to an interview with Indianapolis-based saxophonist, bandleader, composer and educator Sean Imboden. He’s the director of the Sean Imboden Large Ensemble, a 17-piece modern jazz big band. The Sean Imboden Large Ensemble will be issuing their debut recording Communal Heart later this month, and the band will be hosting an album release party at The Jazz Kitchen, on April 26th. Sean Imboden was born and raised in Central Indiana. Local music fans may know Imboden for his work with The Tucker Brothers band, but he’s performed with a wide variety of musicians, including Slide Hampton, Aretha Franklin, and the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra.
Listen to a conversation with the vocalist and actor Micky Dolenz, best known for his work with The Monkees. Dolenz will be performing in Central Indiana on April 25 at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts. In 1966, during the height of Beatle-mania, The Monkees premiered on NBC. The show focused on the lives of a fictional California rock band, featuring Davy Jones, Peter Tork, Michael Nesmith and Micky Dolenz. The Monkees would quickly grow beyond their television roots, recording four chart-topping albums and three chart-toppings singles. Dolenz provided lead vocals for many of the group’s best-known songs, including "Pleasant Valley Sunday", "I'm a Believer”, and "Last Train to Clarksville”.Also hear an interview with jazz guitarist Charlie Ballantine, he’ll be performing at The Jazz Kitchen on April 9. Ballantine has built an impressive discography of releases, featuring a unique mix of indie music, Americana and straight jazz. His albums, including the 2021 release Reflections/Introspection: The Music of Thelonious Monk and the 2019 project Life is Brief —The Music of Bob Dylan have earned praise from publications including DownBeat and All About Jazz.
Explore a new album from the Steve Allee Big Band, titled Naptown Sound. The project pays tribute to the musicians, teachers, mentors, history, and places that contributed to the development of the Naptown sound. The pianist, composer and bandleader Steve Allee has been part of the Indianapolis jazz scene since the 1960s. He came of age at a time when many historic Naptown jazz players were still active on the scene. Allee was befriended and mentored by legendary Indianapolis musicians, including Jimmy Coe, Claude Sifferlen and Errol Grandy.Allee began performing professionally as a teenager, touring with the legendary jazz drummer Buddy Rich. His debut recording, a 1973 session with the the Baron Von Ohlen Quartet, remains a favorite among jazz fans around the world, with original copies seeking for over $200 on the collector’s market. Over the years, Allee has worked with a long list of jazz luminaries, including Slide Hampton, James Moody, Rufus Reid, Curtis Fuller, Jeff Hamilton, Milt Hinton and many others. Allee has also gained notoriety for his work as a composer. He’s written work for the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra and his compositions have been used in documentaries and television programs.
Listen to an interview with the critically acclaimed singer-songwriter Suzanne Vega. She’ll be performing in Indianapolis on March 24th at the Tobias Theatre at Newfields. Vega is known for her poetic lyrics and distinctive voice. She helped to pioneer the acoustic folk movement of the 1980s. Vega’s influential hits, including "Tom's Diner" and "Luka" achieved international success, positioning her as a vital figure in contemporary music. Vega will be issuing her 10th album, “Flying With Angels” this May.
Listen to a 2022 conversation with David Andrichick, owner of the Chatterbox, an important jazz club located in Downtown Indianapolis. The Chatterbox made national news this week when a video depicting a dispute between the club’s bartender and a Trump supporter went viral online. But many news reports and social media posts about the incident left out crucial context about the club’s history.Here in Indiana, the Chatterbox is known for celebrating the rich jazz history of Indianapolis and embracing a diverse community of patrons. The club’s reputation as a destination for live music has attracted notable patrons, including the Rolling Stones, Terence Blanchard, and Wynton Marsalis. In addition to music, the club has also hosted poets, including the world-renowned Etheridge Knight, who led his Free People’s Poetry Workshop at the Chatterbox. When WFYI’s Kyle Long spoke with Andrichick in 2022, he was celebrating his 40th anniversary as owner of the Chatterbox, and they discussed the club’s history in-depth.
Listen to an interview with Tarriona “Tank” Ball of Tank and The Bangas. They’ll be performing in Indiana this March. Tank is a native of New Orleans, but she spent time living in Indianapolis during the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina and graduated from Pike High School in 2006. Last month Tank and The Bangas won their first Grammy when their 2024 album The Heart, The Mind The Soul took home the award for Best Spoken Poetry Word album.
Hear an interview with rapper Sirius Blvck and hip-hop producer Scott Matelic. The duo issued their debut collaborative album, Daily Rituals of the Wild Heart. Sirius Blvck is among the most prolific voices in the Indianapolis music scene. Known for his poetic and introspective lyrics, Blvck’s music has attracted a devoted following among hip-hop fans, with songs like “Tribe Quest” receiving over a million streams on Spotify. In 2021, Black received national attention, with 81355, an experimental hip-hop group featuring Oreo Jones and David “Moose” Adamson. For over 20 years, Scott Matelic has helped to shape the sound of underground hip-hop music, with his soulful psyched beats. He rose to prominence in the late 1990s, producing music for the experimental hip-hop label Anticon. Matelic created beats for classic underground singles by artists including Sage Francis and Sole. Matelic’s music has been embraced by DJs and hip-hop fans around the world, including the beloved Japanese producer and DJ Nujabes, who featured Matelics’s work on his 2008 compilation Modal Soul Classics.
Listen to an interview with the vocalist and actor Akili Ni Mali, one of four featured artists at Art & Soul, the Indy Arts Council’s annual celebration of Black artists in Central Indiana. Akili has been attracting attention for her unique music, a soulful blend of R&B, pop, jazz and classic hip-hop. She’s also earned praise for her work onstage; Akili recently portrayed the legendary musician Nina Simone in the Indiana Repertory Theatre’s production of “Four Women”. Plus, hear a 2023 interview with neo soul vocalist Brandon Lott. Brandon is also a featured artist at Art & Soul 2025.
Listen to an interview with members of Sweet Poison Victim, an Indianapolis band known for their unique blend of West African music and rock and roll. The band also explores Latin American and Caribbean sounds, a reflection of the diverse backgrounds of the group’s members. The band’s leader, Kwesi Brown, was born and raised in Ghana. Brown’s background has shaped every aspect of the group’s sound and style, including their name. The band’s name was inspired by a medicinal alcohol that Brown calls “sweet poison”. The drink is steeped in a variety of roots and herbs, and Brown says that mix of flavors is reflected in Sweet Poison Victim’s sound. Hear music from Sweet Poison Victim’s new album Ringgold Avenue Highlife, along with excerpts from their recent appearance on WFYI’s Small Studio Sessions.
Listen to an interview with the legendary producer and bassist Don Was. He’ll be performing in Central Indiana, with the Pan Detroit Ensemble on February 28 at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts.Born in Detroit, Michigan in 1952, Don Was rose to prominence in the 1980s, with the band Was (Not Was), the group’s music featured a surreal mix of funk, electronic dance music, new wave, and avant-garde jazz, along with an unexpected cast of guest performers that included Mel Torme, Ozzy Osbourne, Frank Sinatra Jr., Iggy Pop, and Leonard Cohen. Was (Not Was) scored a top 10 hit in 1987, with the infection dance song “Walk the Dinosaur”. The notoriety Was gained with Was (Not Was) paved the way for his historic work as a record producer. Was has received 6 Grammy Awards for his work as a producer, including album of the year in 1989 for Bonnie Raitt’s Nick of Time and producer of the year in 1994. Was has produced dozens of significant recordings, including the B-52’s breakout album Cosmic Thing, along with notable work, from The Rolling Stones, Iggy Pop, Bob Dylan, Willie Nelson, Elton John, Ringo Starr, Brian Wilson, Wayne Shorter, and Waylon Jennings, to name a few. Since 2011, Was has served as president of the revered jazz label Blue Note Records. Throughout his life, Was has looked to the culture of his hometown Detroit as a reference point and source of inspiration for his work, that’s evident in his latest project the Pan Detroit Ensemble a group of veteran Detroit jazz and R&B musicians.
Listen to an interview with John Lodge, bassist, songwriter, and vocalist for The Moody Blues. He’ll be performing in Indiana on February 28. The Moody Blues rose to prominence in the late 1960s, with a series of psychedelic hit singles, like “Tuesday Afternoon”and “Nights in White Satin”. Lodge wrote some of the band’s biggest hits, including “Ride My See-Saw”, “Isn’t Life Strange” and “I’m Just a Singer (In a Rock and Roll Band)”. Lodge has been performing and recording with The Moody Blues for over five decades. In 2018 the band was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.Also, hear a conversation with the singer-songwriter, pianist, and disability activist Lachi. She’ll be performing in Indiana on March 1. Lachi was born legally blind and her personal struggles with accessibility in the music industry inspired her to create RAMPD, Recording Artists and Music Professionals with Disabilities. RAMPD is an advocacy group dedicated to amplifying disability culture and promoting disability inclusion in the music industry. Lachi’s work has been recognized the New York Times, Billboard, and USA Today, who named her one of 2024’s women of the year. In addition to her work in music, Lachi is also the host of Renegades, a PBS series that explores the lives of little-known historical figures with disabilities.
Listen to an interview with Pulitzer Prize-winning composer Anthony Davis. He’ll appear at the University of Indianapolis for a series of free events on February 10 and 11. The New York Times has called Davis one of the “greatest living composers.” Davis has received attention worldwide for his orchestral and chamber compositions, but he’s best known for his work in opera, including his groundbreaking 1986 production X, the Life and Times of Malcolm X. In 2020, Davis received the Pulitzer Prize in music for his opera The Central Park Five. Prior to achieving notoriety as a composer, Davis had a prolific career as a jazz pianist, recording with prominent jazz artists including Marion Brown, Oliver Lake, Leroy Jenkins, David Murray, Wadada Leo Smith, and more.
The legendary Indianapolis jazz club The Jazz Kitchen recently celebrated its 30th anniversary. Through the years, The Jazz Kitchen has hosted performances from some of the biggest names including J.J. Johnson, Billy Cobham, Dee Dee Bridgewater, Bob James, Ray Brown, Lakecia Benjamin, Kamasi Washington, and many others. In 2009, The Jazz Kitchen was recognized by DownBeat magazine, as one of the 100 best jazz clubs in the world.Listen to an interview with the club’s founder David Allee, as he shares an oral history of The Jazz Kitchen. Allee is also a trumpet player and has performed with groups including the Jimmy Coe Big Band and Pavel & Direct Contact.
Let’s celebrate “Hi, How Are You Day,” an annual event honoring the late singer-songwriter Daniel Johnston. The Indianapolis-based label Joyful Noise Recordings will be hosting a special “Hi, How Are You Day” event on January 24, featuring an exhibition of Daniel Johnston’s visual artwork. The exhibit was curated by Johnston’s friend and former road manager Don Goede. Listen to interviews with Goede, and Joyful Noise Recordings’ founder Karl Hofstetter, as they discuss the significance of Johnston’s music. Daniel Johnston was born in Sacramento, California in 1961 and he grew up in West Virginia. As a teenager, Johnston began obsessively creating music and art, often recording his songs on cheap consumer tape recorders. Throughout his life, Johnston faced serious mental health issues, struggling with schizophrenia and bi-polar disorder. In his music, Johnston wrote about his life and troubles with disarming honesty. While living in Austin, Texas in the mid 1980s, Johnston began distributing his homemade tapes by hand, passing cassettes out to friends and strangers. By the late 1980s, Johnston’s tapes had fallen into the hands of high-profile indie rock musicians, including members of Sonic Youth and Dinosaur Jr., who championed his music. In 1992, Johnston’s name was thrust into popular culture, when Nirvana frontman Kurt Cobain appeared on MTV wearing a Daniel Johnston t-shirt. Johnston died in 2019 at the age of 58, but his legacy remains stronger than ever. Johnston’s music has expanded beyond the world of underground rock, with artists including Lana Del Rey, Beck and Tom Waits performing his songs.
Listen to a conversation with pianist Elham Fanoos of the Fanoos Ensemble, a unique family group that blends the folk and popular music of Afghanistan with Western classical instrumentation. The Fanoos Ensemble will be performing in Central Indiana on January 25. Elham Fanoos was born in Afghanistan in 1997. During that time, music was banned under Taliban rule. But Elham’s father, Ahmad Fanoos, a well-known singer and television personality in Afghanistan, nurtured his son’s musical talent. Elham started out on the tabla drum but later switched to the piano after watching YouTube videos of the classical music legend Vladimir Horowitz. Elham recently released his debut album with the Fanoos Ensemble, titled Echoes of Afghanistan.Also, hear a conversation with vocalist and songwriter Lindsay Littrell. Lindsay is the creative force behind LITTRELL, an Indianapolis-based music duo formed with the multi-instrumentalist and engineer Garrett Langebartels. LITTRELL’s debut album Public Love was released last year. The album features a distinctive blend of dark pop, alt-rock, and trip-hop music, along with conceptual elements inspired by activist Cornell West and writer Bell Hooks.
Listen to a conversation with Wynton Marsalis, a world-renowned trumpet player, composer, and educator whose artistry and influence span the worlds of jazz and classical music. Marsalis was Born in New Orleans, Louisiana, in 1961. He grew up immersed in the jazz legacy of his hometown. His father, Ellis Marsalis Jr., was a legendary pianist and educator, and his brothers Branford, Delfeayo, and Jason are also acclaimed musicians. A virtuoso in both jazz and classical music, Marsalis was the first musician to win Grammy Awards in both fields in the same year, a feat he achieved in 1984. Marsalis was also the first jazz musician to receive the Pulitzer Prize for Music, for his oratorio Blood on the Fields. Marsalis has become a global ambassador for jazz, and since 1991, he’s served as the artistic director of Jazz at Lincoln Center. Also, hear an interview with the acclaimed Indianapolis jazz saxophonist Rob Dixon. He’ll discuss his upcoming tribute to jazz legend John Coltrane “A Love Supreme: 60th Anniversary Tribute”. For Indianapolis music fans, Rob Dixon needs no introduction. He’s been called the “musical mayor of Indianapolis”, a reference to his prominent role in the city’s music scene. Dixon has worked with many jazz luminaries, including Illinois Jacquet, Mike Clark, and Charlie Hunter. Dixon is also the artistic director of the Indianapolis Jazz Foundation.
This week, Kyle Long shares some of his favorite interviews of 2024. Listen to conversations with Carlos Santana, Omar Apollo, Babyface, Lakecia Benjamin, Zakir Hussain, Indianapolis jazz legend Phil Ranelin, Indiana reggae pioneers Reggaenomix, and David McDonald, author of the book “My Voice is my Weapon: Music, Nationalism, and the Poetics of Palestinian Resistance”.
Karl Hofstetter grew up hating Christmas music. But through his label Joyful Noise Recordings, he’s produced a fascinating archive of experimental holiday music. Listen to selections featuring Jad Fair, Deerhoof, Sound of Ceres, Dale Crover (Melvins), Kishi Bashi, Danielson, Sedcairn Archives, WHY?, David Yow (Jesus Lizard) Thor Harris, and more.
Listen to an interview with the poet, activist and educator Nikki Giovanni, who passed away on December 9th at the age of 81. In 2015, Giovanni spoke with WFYI’s Kyle Long. They discussed her work in music, and her connections to Indianapolis.Also, as we approach the end of the year, media outlets including NPR, Rolling Stone, the New York Times and Pitchfork are publishing their annual “best of” music lists. We’ll explore music from the Indiana musicians featured among the year’s best, including Jlin, Omar Apollo, Justin Hicks of the HawtPlates, and Freddie Gibbs.
Hear the final episode in our two-part series celebrating the life and music of Barbara Dane, a legendary, folk, blues, and jazz singer who used her voice to advocate for social justice and civil rights. Dane passed away in October of 2024, she was 97 years old. Listen to a 2018 interview Dane recorded with WFYI’s Kyle Long, along with rare recordings from her discography.Barbara Dane began singing on the picket lines of Detroit as a teenager. Politics and activism would remain a central focus of her music. She would go on to record for the biggest labels in American music and collaborate with iconic artists, including Louis Armstrong, Earl Hines, and Lightnin’ Hopkins. At the height of the 1960s folk music boom, Bob Dylan called Dane a hero. But Dane never experienced the commercial success of her folk singing peers like Dylan. She refused to compromise her principles for corporate record companies, which led Dane to start her own label in the 1970s, Paredon Records. Through her Paredon label, Dane issued revolutionary music from Palestine, Vietnam, and Cuba. She also released her own recordings on the label, including the 1973 album “I Hate the Capitalist System”. On this edition, we’ll discuss Dane’s work with Paredon, and her connection to Bob Dylan.
Hear the first episode in our two-part series celebrating the life and music of Barbara Dane, a legendary, folk, blues, and jazz singer who used her voice to advocate for social justice and civil rights. Dane passed away in October of 2024, she was 97 years old. Listen to a 2018 interview Dane recorded with WFYI’s Kyle Long, along with rare recordings from her discography.Barbara Dane was born Barbara Jean Spillman in Detroit, Michigan in 1927. She began singing on the picket lines of Detroit as a teenager. Politics and activism would remain a central focus of her music. Dane would go on to record for the biggest labels in American music and collaborate with iconic artists, including Louis Armtstrong, Earl Hines, and Lightnin’ Hopkins. At the height of the 1960’s folk music boom, Bob Dylan called Dane a hero. But Dane never experienced the commercial success of her folk singing peers like Dylan. She refused to compromise her principles for corporate record companies, which led Dane to start her own label in the 1970s, Paredon Records. Through her Paredon label, Dane issued revolutionary music from Palestine, Vietnam, and Cuba. She also released her own recordings on the label, including the 1973 album “I Hate the Capitalist System”.
Listen to a special episode celebrating National Native American Heritage Month. Learn how Native American musicians are reinventing traditional culture in the 21st Century, featuring interviews with the experimental pow wow group Medicine Singers, and the hip-hop artist Supaman.
Fort Wayne’s Troy Shondell was one of Indiana’s first rock and roll stars. He’s best remembered for his 1961 single “This Time”. That song went to number 6 on the Billboard chart and sold over 3 million copies.Shondell never managed to recapture the success of “This Time” and is often labeled a one-hit wonder. But there’s much more to Shondell’s story. He toured with Chuck Berry, recorded with Phil Spector, and produced legendary funk sessions with the Patterson Twins, and Trust at Fort Wayne’s Star Fox studio. Join us to hear rare recordings from Troy Shondell.
In 1973, the Beech Grove Indiana rack band Zerfas released their self-titled debut album. The band was led by brothers Dave and Herman Zerfas, who independently distributed the Zerfas record. The album went largely unheard at the time of its initial release, but over the years Zerfas has attracted a strong cult audience. Today, the Zerfas album is considered a lost classic of psychedelic rock music, and original copies of the LP sell for thousands of dollars. A new album from the Logansport Indiana rapper Id Obelus celebrates the legacy of Zerfas. The project is titled “Safrez”, it includes samples from the 1973 Zerfas LP, along with rhymes inspired by Zerfas’ lyrics.This week on Cultural Manifesto, listen to an interview with Id Obelus, as he shares the inspiration behind “Safrez”.Also, hear a 2015 conversation with the late Moe Whittemore, he recorded and released Zerfas’ 1973 album from his 700 West studio in New Palestine, Indiana. During the 1970s, Whittemore recorded and released dozens of important Hoosier albums from his home in New Palestine.
Long Description: Listen to an interview with the legendary vocalist Dionne Warwick. She’ll be performing in Central Indiana later this month. Warwick rose to prominence in the early 1960s, after catching the attention of the songwriter and producer Burt Bacharach. During the 1960s, Warwick became the primary voice for Bacharach’s chart-topping compositions, co-written with lyricist Hal David. Songs like “Don’t Make Me Over,” “Walk on By,” “I Say A Little Prayer,” “I’ll Never Fall in Love Again” and many others, dominated the charts. That success led Warwick to become one of the most-charted vocalists of all time, with 80 singles hitting the Billboard charts. Warwick has won 6 Grammy awards, among many other notable accolades. Last month, she was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.
Listen to an interview with the prolific rock and roll drummer, and former Bloomington, Indiana resident Kenny Aronoff. Here in Indiana, Aronoff is best known for his work with John Mellencamp. But his work outside of Mellencamp’s band is even more notable. Aranoff has performed with the greatest icons in popular music, including Paul McCartney, Bob Dylan, The Rolling Stones, Lady Gaga, Bruce Springsteen and many others.
Listen to words and music with the tabla virtuoso Zakir Hussain, one of the most celebrated performers in the history of Indian classical music. Hussain has also found success in Western music, collaborating with iconic musicians including George Harrison, Earth Wind & Fire, Van Morrison, Tina Turner and members of the Grateful Dead.Hussain will perform at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel on November 1st. He'll be joined by the santoor player Rahul Sharma. The santoor is a hammered-dulcimer instrument featuring 100 strings. Rahul Sharma is the son of the late santoor pioneer Shivkumar Sharma, a longtime collaborator with Hussain. The concert will pay homage to Shivkumar Sharma, who died in 2022.
It's a special Halloween episode of Cultural Manifesto. Hear an interview with Yung Rev, an Indianapolis-based musician and entrepreneur. Yung Rev is the promoter behind Dystopia, a unique event series featuring skateboarding, pro wrestling, and live music. Yung Rev’s latest event is titled Spooktopia, and features performances from artists including Mula Kkhan and Mxjor.Also, hear an hour of truly terrifying music from Hoosier history, including:- Lost tapes from an occult rock musical titled “The Satanic Bible”. The musical premiered in Indianapolis in 1972, and featured the Muncie, Indiana psychedelic rock band The Ritual- Music from Gary, Indiana’s Michael Esposito, a paranormal investigator and experimental sound artist. Esposito creates music utilizing EVP recordings. EVP, short for electronic voice phenomenon, is a term used by ghost hunters and paranormal researchers to describe sounds believed to be spirit voices.- Coven, a pioneering Indianapolis proto-metal band known for their 1969 album “Witchcraft Destroys Minds & Reaps Souls”.- Michael W. Ford, an Indianapolis-born occultist and musician known for his work with in dark ambient, and black metal music.
Listen to an interview with the Indianapolis musician and producer, Inga McDaniel. For over 40 years, McDaniel has been self-producing and self-releasing electronic dance music. A new anthology of her music, titled “Double Mug”, was recently issued by the Indiana-based label Ulyssa.
Hear a conversation with NPR music contributors Ann Powers and Alison Fensterstock. They’ll discuss the new book “How Women Made Music: A Revolutionary History from NPR Music,” a celebration of women in music featuring archival interviews, essays, and rare photos.
Listen to a special pledge drive episode featuring show highlights selected by host Kyle Long.Hear interviews with Carlos Santana discussing the influence of Indianapolis guitarist Wes Montgomery, Meshell Ndegeocello on her work with Indianapolis composer Hanna Benn, Omar Apollo recalling his early years in Northwest Indiana, author Tyler Alpern discussing the Indiana LGBTQ+ music pioneer Bruz Fletcher, and much more.Also, hear lost Indiana recordings recovered by Long featuring music from Duke Ellington and The Vanguards.
Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with an hour of music from composer Juan Orrego-Salas.Orrego-Salas was born in Santiago, Chile in 1919. He moved to Bloomington, Indiana in 1961 to direct Indiana University’s Latin American Music Center. Now in it’s 63rd year, the Latin American Music Center manages one of the largest archives of 20th century Latin American art music in the world. Orrego-Salas retired as the center’s director in 1987 and remained in Bloomington until his death in 2019 at the age of 100.As a composer, Orrego-Salas left behind a large catalog of music, including symphonies, concertos and chamber music pieces. Join us for a selection of rare recordings from Orrego-Salas.
Listen to an interview with the Indianapolis rock band Wishy. Their debut album Triple Seven has been praised in publications including Pitchfork and The Guardian. Wishy’s music draws inspiration from 1990s shoegaze and dream pop bands like My Bloody Valentine and The Sundays.Also, hear a tribute to the Indianapolis rockabilly pioneer Ronnie Haig, he passed away this month at the age of 85. Haig was born in Indianapolis in 1939, and grew up in the Fountain Square neighborhood. At age 19, Haig released two singles for the Indianapolis label Note Records. The sessions were recorded at Chicago’s famous Chess Records studio, and featured an all-star group of Indianapolis musicians, including guitarist Wes Montgomery. Haig is best remembered for 1958 single “Don’t You Hear Me Calling, Baby”, a regional hit in markets around the United States.
Listen to an interview with jazz saxophonist Lakecia Benjamin. 2024 has been a breakout year for Lakecia. She was nominated for 3 Grammy awards, and made high profile appearances on NPR’s Tiny Desk, and The Late Show with Stephen Colbert. She will be performing at this year’s Indy Jazz Fest.
Listen to an interview with rock and roll legend Felix Cavaliere of The Rascals. Vocalist, organist and songwriter Felix Cavaliere confounded Rascals in 1965. Originally known as The Young Rascals, the band would go on to chart 9 top 20 Billboard singles, including three number 1 hits. Today, The Rascals are considered one of the defining American rock bands of the 1960s. The band was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1997, and Cavaliere was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2009. The Rascals will be performing at the Brown County Music Center in September.
Listen to an interview with the New York-based musician John Roseboro. He describes his music as “post bossa,” a unique blend of American indie rock and Brazilian bossa nova. Roseboro will be performing in Indianapolis on September 14 at State Street Pub.
Carl Broemel started his career as a choir boy at Indianapolis’ Christ Church Cathedral, today he travels the world as a guitarist with My Morning Jacket. This week on Cultural Manifesto, hear Broemel discuss his roots in the Indianapolis music scene.Broemel’s work with My Morning Jacket has received widespread critical acclaim. In 2007, he was named on Rolling Stone magazine’s list of “20 New Guitar Gods”. Broemel has worked with a wide range of musicians, from CCR’s John Fogerty to Pink Floyd’s Roger Waters. Broemel will be performing with My Morning Jacket at the Bourbon & Beyond in Louisville on September 22.
Listen to an interview with photographer Jacob Moran. He’ll discuss “Visual Aural”, a book and mixtape documenting the Indianapolis rap music scene. Also hear from two of the musicians featured in “Visual Aural,” rappers 4200Kory and Joosi.
Listen to an interview with the Indianapolis-based poet and filmmaker Too Black. He’ll discuss his new book, “Laundering Black Rage: The Washing of Black Death, People, Property, and Profits”, co-written with Dr. Rasul Mowatt. The book explores how the rage directed at the police murder of George Floyd was re-channeled away from the Black Lives Matter movement into corporate advertising and questionable leadership.
Listen to a preview of this year’s edition of Chreece, an all-day hip-hop festival happening in the Fountain Square neighborhood of Indianapolis. Hear a conversation with Chreece organizers Oreo Jones, Jane Kim, and Jay Brookinz; along with interviews and music from Chreece performers 4200Kory, and Joosi Got Bars.Plus a conversation with Yung Rev, the organizer of Dystopia, a multimedia event series happening in Fountain Square.
Listen to a special podcast edition of Cultural Manifesto, featuring an unedited conversation with Oreo Jones, Jay Brookinz, and Jane Kim — the organizers of Chreece, an all-day hip-hop festival happening in the Fountain Square neighborhood of Indianapolis.
Listen to an interview with the Hobart, Indiana pop star Omar Apollo. He will discuss his new album “God Said No”, his memories of growing up in northwest Indiana, and his upcoming concert in Indianapolis.
Listen to an interview with the Bloomington-based jazz keyboardist, bandleader, and author Monika Herzig. She’ll discuss the latest album from her band Sheroes, titled “All In Good Time”.Monika Herzig’s Sheroes is an all-star group, featuring prominent women in jazz music. Sheroes is one of many projects Herzig has created to support women in jazz.
Listen to an interview with the composer and multi-instrumentalist Leon Todd Johnson. He creates classically inspired ambient music under the name Airport People. Johnson will discuss the new Airport People release “Midwest Dispossessed”, a collaboration with photographer Michael Ginda. The album includes a 136-page book of photography by Ginda, along with Johnson’s score. “Midwest Dispossessed” has been described as a “blend of visual and auditory art, that explores the current state of rural communities in and around the Wabash Valley.”
In the summer of 1928, the Vocalion Record Company visited Indianapolis in search of the city’s best musical talent. The label’s trip to Indianapolis was a success, Vocalion discovered and recorded several early stars of Indianapolis country, blues, jazz, and pop music — including blues legends Leroy Carr and Scrapper Blackwell, Black country music pioneers Lulu Jackson and James Cole, future Hollywood star Dick Powell, and more. This week on Cultural Manifesto we’ll listen to Vocalion’s historic Indianapolis recordings.
This week on Cultural Manifesto, listen to an interview with jazz bassist and educator Bethany Robinson. Robinson earned national recognition as a music teacher at Noblesville High School and was recently appointed as leader of the Purdue jazz program.Also hear a selection of notable new Hoosier music releases from artists including Airport People, Los Aptos, Hanna Benn, Jordan Munson, Jlin and more.
Hear an interview with the Indianapolis rock band The Last IV. The group features a quartet of local music luminaries who’ve made significant contributions to punk, hip-hop, and indie rock music in Indiana.
Last month, the legendary bassist and singer-songwriter Meshell Ndegeocello recorded a session for NPR’s Tiny Desk. The vocals for that performance were handled by The HawtPlates, a musical ensemble co-founded by the Lafayette, Indiana siblings Justin and Jade Hicks. The HawtPlates have worked extensively with Ndegeocello and contributed to her Grammy-winning 2023 album "The Omnichord Real Book”. This week on Cultural Manifesto, listen to an interview with Justin and Jade Hicks.
It’s been 50 years since The Beach Boys released their chart-topping compilation album Endless Summer in 1974. The band’s 2024 tour Endless Summer Gold celebrates the legendary Beach Boys hits featured on that album. This week on Cultural Manifesto, Beach Boys vocalist and co-founder Mike Love will share his thoughts on the band’s legacy, and discuss The Four Freshmen, an Indianapolis vocal group that deeply influenced The Beach Boys’ sound.
Celebrate Pride month by exploring the work of historically significant Indiana LGBTQ+ musicians. Listen to interviews with Lē Weaver of Software, and writer Tyler Alpern, author of the 2010 book “Camped, Tramped and A Riotous Vamp” a biography of the Indiana songwriter Bruz Fletcher.Software was an Indianapolis synth-rock band that played a crucial role in the Lesbian music scene of Indiana during the 1980s. Stoughton “Bruz” Fletcher, a pioneer of LGBTQ+ music during the 1930s. Bruz was born into one of the wealthiest and most powerful families in Indiana, and his life was filled with extraordinary luxury and tragedy.
Listen to interviews with the Indianapolis vocalist Bayem, and keyboardist Simon Marvin of Hiatus Kaiyote. Bayem’s music blends elements of R&B, with ’80s pop, and electronic music. His 2022 EP “Afterglow” accrued millions of streams online. Bayme’s most recent EP “OASIS” is inspired by the futurism of internet vaporwave music.Simon Marvin is keyboardist for Australia’s critically acclaimed jazz-funk band Hiatus Kaiyote, they’ll be performing in Indianapolis on June 21st. Hiatus Kaiyote’s unique sound has earned praise from music icons like Prince, Erykah Badu, and Questlove.
This week on Cultural Manifesto, listen to a conversation with Dave Samuelson, a record producer, writer, radio host, and country music historian based in Battle Ground, Indiana. Samuelson has contributed to the Encyclopedia of Country Music, and written liner notes for albums by Merle Haggard and Hank Williams. During the 1970s, Samuelson founded the Puritan Records label. Puritan issued rare archival music from country pioneers, and contemporary releases from Indiana-based artists.
This week on Cultural Manifesto, explore the history of Palestinian protest music with the Bloomington-based Palestinian music researcher David McDonald, an associate professor of Folklore and Ethnomusicology at Indiana University. McDonald will discuss his book “My Voice is my Weapon: Music, Nationalism, and the Poetics of Palestinian Resistance”, and share examples of Palestinian protest music from artists including Sabreen, Dam, Kamal Khalil and Baladna, Firqat Aghani al-'Ashiqin, and more.
This week on Cultural Manifesto, listen to an interview with the rock and roll legend Carlos Santana. He’ll discuss the influence of the Indianapolis jazz guitarist Wes Montgomery on his work. Santana has called Montgomery one of his primary musical inspirations. Santana will be performing in Central Indiana in June. Also, hear the first edition of a new series on Cultural Manifesto exploring the music history of Lafayette, Indiana. Host Kyle Long will talk with Zechariah Baumhover, an Indianapolis-based musician who grew up in Lafayette. Baumhover is best known for his work with the rock band Lusso, and the electronic music project Pariah Peels. Baumhover will share his memories of the D.I.Y. punk scene in Lafayette and discuss his latest album Zested Peels.
This week on Cultural Manifesto, explore the music of Bill Wilson, a legendary Central Indiana songwriter who died in 1993 at the age of 46. Wilson’s debut album “Ever Changing Minstrel” was released by Columbia Records in 1973. “Ever Changing Minstrel” was produced by the esteemed Bob Johnston, known for his work with Bob Dylan, Johnny Cash and Leonard Cohen. Columbia promoted Wilson as the next Bob Dylan, but “Ever Changing Minstrel” was a flop at the time of its initial release. Over the years, a cult audience has grown around Wilson’s music. Today his songs have millions of streams online. Join us for rare and unreleased music from Bill Wilson.
This week on Cultural Manifesto, celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month with music from Asian musicians and composers connected to the Hoosier state. Enjoy pop, folk, classical, and electronic music featuring Indiana musicians representing Vietnam, Myanmar, China, India and more.
This week on Cultural Manifesto listen to an interview with the legendary jazz pianist Bob James, he’ll be performing at the Jazz Kitchen later this month. Some music fans know James for writing the theme song to the hit television show Taxi. Others know James’ work through its extensive use in hip-hop sampling — he’s one of the most sampled artists in the history of rap music. But few know that James’ first career breakthrough happened in Indiana. In 1962, the Bob James Trio competed at Notre Dame’s Collegiate Jazz Festival in South Bend. The judges at that year’s festival included Henry Mancini and Quincy Jones. James carried away the festival’s top prizes and formed a lasting relationship with Quincy Jones — who signed James to Mercury Records and produced his debut album the following year. James will share his memories of the festival, and Cultural Manifesto host Kyle Long will share a rare lost recording of James’ 1962 performance. James will also discuss his collaboration with Indianapolis jazz legend Freddie Hubbard, and offer his thoughts on the use of his music in sampling.
This week on Cultural Manifesto, listen to a discussion on the past, present, and future of Indianapolis R&B. Featured guests will include Damon Karl, 4Cast, and Sid Johnson of M.E.C.A.P. Music. Damon Karl and 4Cast are rising stars in the Indianapolis R&B scene. Guitarist/vocalist Damon Karl has performed across the United States, including appearances with the Indianapolis R&B legend Kenny “Babyface” Edmonds. 4Cast are a three-piece R&B vocal group featuring Alvin “Big AL” Hester, Jr., Carl “Cjayy” Harris, Jr. and Shaquan “Shaq Diesel” Simms.Sid Johnson has a long career in songwriting and artist management. Along with Kenny “Babyface” Edmonds, Johnson co-authored the classic R&B ballad “Slow Jam”, the song has been recorded by artists including Midnight Star and Usher. Johnson also co-wrote the 1988 hit “Two Occasions” for The Deele.Johnson’s work in artist management goes back to the Indianapolis R&B scene of the 1960s. During the 1970s, Johnson worked extensively with Manchild, the Indianapolis funk band that launched the career of Babyface. Johnson currently runs the artist management agency M.E.C.A.P. Music.
This week on Cultural Manifesto, listen to an interview with the Indianapolis jazz guitarist Charlie Ballantine. Hear a preview of his new album “Love Letters and Graffiti”. Also, hear an interview with the children’s music duo 123 Andrés. They’ll be performing at Día del Niño Be My Neighbor Day! on Saturday, April 27 at Central Library.
Earlier this month the Indianapolis guitarist and bandleader Mike Woods passed away. He was 67 years old. Woods is best known for his work with the funk band Soul Relation. The group recorded their debut single “Mongo Strut” in 1972 while Woods was a student at Arsenal Tech High School. “Mongo Strut” has become an international collector’s item with music fans around the globe. So too has Woods’ 1988 LP with the electro-soul band Style. This week on Cultural Manifesto, listen to a 2020 interview with Woods, along with rare and unreleased music from Soul Relation and Style.
Uncle Funkenstein, Zerfas, and Hamilton Movement may be unfamiliar names to most Hoosier music fans, but record collectors around the world pay thousands of dollars for these rare Indiana discs. This week on Cultural Manifesto, listen to the top 10 most valuable Indiana LPs and 45 RPM singles of all time. Also, hear interviews with the musicians and record labels behind the music.
According to a 2023 report from Luminate, formerly known as Nielsen SoundScan, over 120,000 new tracks are uploaded to the music streaming service Spotify every day. That’s over 36,500,000 tracks per year. According to that same report, over 45 million of those tracks never received a single play. That’s bad news for musicians as Spotify recently announced that it would cease making royalty payments for songs with less than 1,000 annual streams. But all hope is not lost, Ulyssa, an Indiana-based record label, is dedicated to discovering and celebrating the vast trove of unheard music on Spotify. This week on Cultural Manifesto, listen to an interview with Ulyssa founders John Williamson and Eric Deines. Ulyssa also issues a wide variety of lo-fi, electronic, and experimental music from across the globe. A recent release, titled Contrahouse, features the Grammy-winning pianist and singer-songwriter Bruce Hornsby. Ulyssa has even coined a new genre of music, they call it Toejazz, a reference to the 1991 Sega Genesis video game Toejam and Earl.
This week on Cultural Manifesto, listen to an interview with the classical music pianist Joshua Thompson, creative partner-in-residence with the Indianapolis Chamber Orchestra. Hear Thompson discuss his upcoming concert with the ICO titled "Black Keys: The Evolution of the Black Classical Arts”. Also hear interviews with Thompson’s twin brother, saxophonist Jared Thompson, and Dana Stone, executive director of the ICO.Joshua Thompson is recognized nationally for his expertise on classical composers of African descent. He’s also the host and creator of the award-winning podcast Melanated Moments in Classical Music.
This week on Cultural Manifesto, listen to an interview with the Indianapolis jazz saxophonist Rob Dixon. He’ll discuss Salon Noir, a public conversation focused on the jazz history of Indiana Avenue as it relates to the present and future state of Black creative production in Indiana. Dixon will be joined on Cultural Manifesto by the award-winning poet and educator Lasana Kazembe, jazz musician and educator Oliver Nelson Jr., and Robert Montgomery, the youngest son of jazz guitarist Wes Montgomery. Salon Noir is part of Dixon’s artist residency with the Center for Africana Studies & Culture at IUPUI.
This week on Cultural Manifesto, celebrate Women’s History Month by learning about the women pioneers of Hoosier music, including Vivian Carter, Dena El Saffar, Mary Byrne, Priscilla Mclean, Margaret Hills and Anna Mae Winburn.Vivian Carter was a legendary disc jockey and co-founder of Gary, Indiana’s Vee Jay Records. Vee Jay released hit songs by artists including The Impressions, The Dells, Gladys Knight, John Lee Hooker, and Gene Chandler. Vee Jay also issued significant jazz and gospel titles, including the first full-length LP by the Staple Singers, and Wayne Shorter’s debut album as a leader. In February of 1963 Vee Jay became the first American record label to issue music from The Beatles. Vee Jay’s release of ”Please Please Me” pre-dated The Beatles’ first Capitol Records release by a year.Mary Byrne is the founder of Labyris, an influential feminist lesbian bar that operated in Downton Indianapolis from 1978-1984. During the 1980s, Byrne also served as director of the National Women’s Music Festival in Bloomington, Indiana. Byrne’s work creating stages for women performers in Indiana was unprecedented at the time, and remains a significant achievement in the history of Indiana music.Anna Mae Winburn was raised in Kokomo, Indiana. Winburn gained international notoriety as the bandleader and vocalist for the International Sweethearts of Rhythm, a trailblazing multi-racial, all female big band that was active from 1937 to 1949. The multi-instrumentalist and composer Dena El Saffar is the founder of Salaam, a Bloomington-based Middle Eastern music ensemble. The music of Salaam draws from El Saffar’s Iraqi heritage. For over 30 years, Salaam have educated audiences around the country about the music and culture of Iraq. Kokomo, Indiana's Margaret Hillis was an influential figure in American choral music and a trailblazing pioneer for women in classical music. Hillis is best remembered as the founder and director of the Chicago Symphony Chorus, she led the ensemble from 1957 to 1994. Hillis’ work with the chorus earned her nine Grammy Awards. Composer Priscilla Mclean studied electronic music at IU Bloomington during the late 1960s. During the 1970s, Mclean created groundbreaking electronic music works at IU South Bend. Mclean was among the first Hoosier women to attain national notoriety in the world of electronic music.
This week on Cultural Manifesto, listen to an interview with the Indianapolis jazz musicians Rob Dixon and Richard “Sleepy” Floyd. Their new project From the 317, seeks to document and export the Indianapolis sound. From the 317 features a wide variety of guest musicians, including Rusty Redenbacher, Josh Kaufman, Charlie Ballantine, Steve Weakley, Maxie, Foxd’legend and more. Enjoy a special sneak preview of this new album.
The Texas politician and author Beto O’Rourke joins Karla López Owens to discuss his book “We’ve Got to Try: How the Fight for Voting Rights Makes Everything Else Possible”. Beto also shared how punk rock music influenced his work in politics.
This week on Cultural Manifesto, listen to an interview with Breezey Fox and Krista Hoose of the Indianapolis-based country music band The Indy Annies. We’ll also have another edition of Rebel Music with Karla López Owens. This week Karla's guest will be the Texas politician and author Beto O’Rourke. During the 1990s, Beto was also a member of the El Paso-based punk band Foss. Beto will share how punk music informs his work in politics.
The Gary, Indiana music legend Donald Kinsey passed away earlier this month at the age of 70. Here in Indiana, Kinsey is best known for his work in blues music. This week on Cultural Manifesto we’ll explore Kinsey’s connection to reggae music icon Bob Marley. Kinsey toured with Marley during the late 1970s and performed on Marley’s1976 album “Rastaman Vibration”.Also, listen to an interview with the Indianapolis jazz trombonist Andrew Danforth. His debut album “Homegrown” explores themes related to the historic Indiana Avenue music scene.Plus, catch up with Kenny “Babyface” Edmonds, he was back in his hometown last week to support music education at Indianapolis Public Schools.
This week on Cultural Manifesto, listen to an interview with the Indianapolis composer, performer, and multimedia artist Jordan Munson. He has a new album out titled Heartless Fools. The music was recorded at Greenhouse Studios in Reykjavík, Iceland, and features contributions from Indianapolis musicians including Hanna Benn, and Charlie Ballantine. According to Munson, the music on Heartless Fools is a response to the complex social and political landscape of present day America. The album features a constantly shifting sonic palette, reflecting order and chaos, contemplation and impatience.Also, music journalist Katherine Yeske Taylor will discuss her new book She’s a Badass: Women in Rock Shaping Feminism. Tomorrow Bookstore will present an author talk with Taylor on February 20th at the Indy Fringe Theatre. She’s a Badass: Women in Rock Shaping Feminism features Taylor’s interview with 20 influential women in rock music, including Ann Wilson or Heart, Gina Schock of the Go-Go’s, Exene Cervenka of X, Amy Ray of the Indigo Girls, Suzanna Vega, Lydia Lunch and others.
This week’s edition of Cultural Manifesto is all about making a comeback. We’ll join the legendary Indianapolis jazz trombonist Phil Ranelin at the Chatterbox for his first gig after suffering from a debilitating stroke in 2021. Ranelin is best known for his work with the Tribe, a Detroit-based collective of avant-garde jazz musicians and activists. Ranelin has performed and recorded with artists including Wes Montgomery, Freddie Hubbard, Pharoah Sanders, Red Hot Chili Peppers, and more. Plus, listen to an interview with Indiana reggae music pioneers Keith Baptiste, Tim Johnson, and John Loflin of Reggaenomix. Reggaenomix has reunited for the first time in over 25 years. Their music mixes Jamaican rhythms with socially conscious lyrics. We’ll discuss their 1990 song “Who Killed Michael Taylor?”, written about a 16 year old Indianapolis resident who was found dead in police custody in 1987. We’ll also listen to the band’s new single “I’m Not Against the Police (I’m Against Police Brutality.)
This week on Cultural Manifesto, listen to an interview with NPR’s Ari Shapiro. He’ll discuss his cabaret act Och & Oy!, a collaboration with the Scottish actor Alan Cumming. The pair will perform Och & Oy! in Indiana this February.We’ll also discuss the life and music of the Indiana songwriter Bruz Fletcher, a pioneer of LGBTQ+ music during the 1930s. Born into one of the wealthiest families in Indiana, Bruz was raised in Laurel Hall, an extravagant mansion located in northeast Indianapolis. His life was filled with both luxury and tragedy. The singer-songwriter took his own life in 1941 at the age of 34.Author Tyler Alpern talks with host Kyle Long about the music of Bruz Fletcher. Alpern is the author of the 2010 biography "Bruz Fletcher: Camped, Tramped and A Riotous Vamp.”If you are in crisis, please call, text or chat with the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988, or contact the Crisis Text Line by texting TALK to 741741.
This week on Cultural Manifesto, listen to an interview with the jazz saxophonist, bandleader, and composer Branford Marsalis.Also, playwright Cheryl L. West and actor Maiesha McQueen will join host Kyle Long to discuss the Indiana Repertory Theatre’s production of “Fannie: The Music and Life of Fannie Lou Hamer.”
Branford Marsalis grew up immersed in music in Louisiana. Along with his brother Wynton, Branford has played a large role in shaping the style and sound of contemporary jazz. Branford has achieved a level of public notoriety that is rare for jazz musicians. From 1992 to 1995, he worked as bandleader for Jay Leno’s Tonight Show, and throughout the 1980s and ’90s, Branford participated in high profile collaborations with rock and rap musicians including Sting, The Grateful Dead, and Public Enemy. Branford has also worked extensively as a composer, scoring over a dozen films and television programs.Branford Marsalis will make two appearances in Indiana this January.
This week on Cultural Manifesto, host Kyle Long speaks with Alan Bacon, co-founder and president of the Indianapolis-based arts and culture organization GangGang. We’ll discuss GangGang’s I Made Rock ’N’ Roll Festival. It’s happening May 18th at the American Legion Mall in Indianapolis, honoring the Black roots of rock music and will feature performances by Janelle Monáe, Gary Clark Jr., Robert Randolph Band, Joy Oladokun and more. We’ll also continue listening to memorable interviews of 2023, including words and music from Lara Downes, Angela Brown, Hanna Benn, Meshell Ndegeocello, Morgan Rae Webster and Parris Ladame.
Listen back to some of our favorite interviews of 2023. Join us for words and music from Skypp, Aye Marcay, Zakir Hussain, 123 Andrés, La March Nueva, Dwani Phiri, and Kronos Quartet.
NPR has released their best of 2023 music lists. We'll explore the Indiana musicians featured among the year’s best, including Hanna Benn, Omar Apollo, Durand Jones, and The HawtPlates. We’ll also have another edition of Rebel Music with Karla López Owens. Karla's guest is the Indianapolis-based visual artist Alejandra Carrillo who creates work under the name El Rallonadero.
Rebel Music with Karla López Owens is an ongoing series on Cultural Manifesto exploring the relationship between music and activism. On this episode, Karla’s guest is Alejandra Carrillo, a chicana activist, artist and art educator. She creates art under the name “El Rallonadero,” which translates to “the scribbler.”Her work has been featured in many prominent spaces - including the Eiteljorg and the Indianapolis Museum of Art at Newfields. In the Fall of 2023, Alejandra completed a mural for the Mexican Consulate in Indiana.
Listen to an interview with the Indianapolis-based jazz pianist Christopher Pitts.Pitts will share tracks from “Be Free,” his debut album as a leader.
This week on Cultural Manifesto listen to an interview with the Chicago-based musician and storyteller Shanta Nurullah. During a college trip to India in 1969 she discovered the sitar. Nurullah has spent the last 50 years exploring the instrument in her jazz and blues compositions.The Indiana jazz pianist and civil rights activist Rev. Dr. Marvin Chandler passed away earlier this year. Listen back to Kyle Long’s 2020 interview with Chandler, and hear Indianapolis Deputy Mayor Judith Thomas share her memories of Chandler.
Vibraphonist Mitchell Shiner discusses his album "Latkes con Salsa: A Latin Jazz Hanukkah." And the Indianapolis rapper and producer Jaye B shares music from his recent albums “X” and “The Bachelor.”
This week on Cultural Manifesto explore holiday-themed releases from Wife Patrol and Isaiah J. Thompson.The Indianapolis-based rock band Wife Patrol gained national attention for their 2020 LP “Too Prickly For This World.” Afropunk praised Wife Patrol for their "indelible hooks and defiant verses,” and Bandcamp described the group’s sound as “catchy alt rock with streaks of punk, new wave, and metal.” Wife Patrol will discuss their latest single “Christmas ’96.”2023 was a landmark year for pianist Isaiah J. Thompson. Earlier this year, Thompson won the American Pianists Association 2023 Award for Jazz and the Cole Porter Fellowship. Thomspon will join host Kyle Long to talk about his new album “Guaraldi Holiday,” a tribute to the music of Vince Guaraldi, who scored the classic Peanuts’ holiday specials of the 1960s.
This week on Cultural Manifesto listen to an interview with the Indianapolis R&B artist Brandon Lott. He’ll share music from his latest release, “Aquadream.”We’ll also have a live session from La Marca Nueva, a young Indianapolis band that specializes in regional Mexican music styles, including sierreno and corridos tumbados.
This week on Cultural Manifesto we’ll celebrate Native American Heritage Month with Daryl Black Eagle Jamieson, co-founder of the experimental pow wow music group Medicine Singers. Their debut album was issued last year by Indianapolis’ Joyful Noise Recording.We’ll also have another edition of Rebel Music with Karla Lopez-Owens, an ongoing series exploring the relationship between music and activism. Karla’s guest will be Carolina Castoreno. Carolina’s work is centered around the preservation of Native identity and decolonization efforts.
On this edition of Rebel Music, host Karla López Owens talks with activist, writer, and community organizer Carolina Castoreno. Carolina identifies as both American Indian and Mexican Indian, She’s a citizen of the Lipan Apache Tribe of Texas, and a descendant of the Mescalero Apache, and Yaqui tribes. Carolina has served as executive director of the American Indian Center of Indiana. Her work is centered around the preservation of Native identity, decolonization efforts, and education for Indigenous peoples of the Americas.
This week on Cultural Manifesto listen to an interview with the Grammy-winning musician Meshell Ndegeocello - she’ll be performing at the Palladium on November 18th. Meshell will discuss her connection to Indiana artists - including John Mellencamp, Etheridge Knight, and Hanna Benn.We’ll also explore a lost recording from the Indianapolis jazz musician and composer Steve Allee. In 1983, Steve composed "Centennial Salute: A Musical Tribute To The Indianapolis Museum Of Art”, an orchestral suite featuring over 70 musicians - including members of the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra and jazz legends of Indiana Avenue.
The Grammy-winning vocalist, bass player and composer Meshell Ndegeocello will perform at the Palladium in central Indiana on November 18. Meshell is known for her eclectic and expansive sonic palette. She's collaborated with artists ranging from Madonna to the Rolling Stones - and her music incorporates elements of hip-hop, jazz, rock, soul, afrobeat, and more.Meshell’s latest album ”The Omnichord Real Book” reflects these diverse influences and brings together a remarkable set of guest collaborators - including the Indianapolis composer and vocalist Hanna Benn.
This week on Cultural Manifesto listen to an interview with violinist David Harrington, founder of the groundbreaking Kronos Quartet. They’ve been called the most important new music ensemble in the world — over 1,000 new works and arrangements have been commissioned for the group. Kronos Quartet will bring their 50th anniversary tour to West Lafayette, Indiana’s Loeb Theatre.The Percussive Arts Society International Convention (PASIC) returns to Indianapolis this November. Every year, PASIC brings some of the greatest percussionists in the world to Indianapolis for a week of performances and clinics. We’ll celebrate PASIC by listening back to a 2019 interview with the late Elayne Jones, a member of the Percussive Arts Society’s Hall of Fame.Jones was a prominent tympanist who performed with music luminaries including Leopold Stokowski and Duke Ellington. Throughout her career, Jones fought against racial and gender discrimination.
This week on Cultural Manifesto listen to an interview with tabla virtuoso Zakir Hussain - an icon of Indian classical music. Hussain will share his thoughts on the use of AI in music, winning the Kyoto Prize, and his work with the late Tina Turner.Also, hear a conversation with Judith Thomas, Deputy Mayor of Neighborhood Engagement City of Indianapolis. Thomas is a passionate advocate for arts and culture in Indianapolis and a lifelong jazz fan. She’ll discuss the role of music and art in her work and share some of her favorite Indianapolis jazz recordings.
Kronos Quartet have been called one of the most important new music ensembles in the world — over 1,000 new works and arrangements have been commissioned for the group. WFYI’s Kyle Long recently spoke to the group’s founder David Harrington. They discussed Kronos Quartet’s 50th anniversary, the group's upcoming appearance in West Lafayette, collaborating with Bollywood icon Asha Bhosle, and their latest album "Songs and Symphoniques: The Music of Moondog”.
Tabla virtuoso Zakir Hussain is a global icon of Indian classical music. Hussain recently spoke with WFYI’s Kyle Long. They discussed his upcoming concert with Bela Fleck, AI music, working with Tina Turner, and more.
This week on Cultural Manifesto we’ll celebrate Halloween with Karl Hofstetter from the Indianapolis label Joyful Noise Recordings. Karl will share tracks from "Joyful Noise Halloween Party, Vol. 1,” a new holiday-themed compilation featuring music from Fred Armisen, Swamp Dogg, Deerhoof, Magic Sword, Danielson and others.We’ll also have a Halloween edition of Rebel Music with Karla Lopez-Owens. Karla’s guest will be the best-selling author Silvia Moreno-Garcia, known for her gothic horror novels.
On this edition of Rebel Music Karla López Owens speaks with the Mexican-Canadian writer Silvia Moreno-Garcia.Silvia has written in many styles – including fantasy, noir, and speculative fiction — but some of her best known works are in the horror genre – including the novels Mexican Gothic and Silver Nitrate.Activism has also been a theme in Silvia’s work, her 2021 novel Velvet Was the Night is against the backdrop of the 1971 Corpus Christi Massacre in Mexico City - where over 120 protesters were killed.
This week on Cultural Manifesto listen to an interview with Stewart Copeland, best known as the co-founder and drummer of the legendary British rock band The Police. Copeland will bring his “Police Deranged for Orchestra" tour to the Palladium in central Indiana on October 19th.Also, celebrate Halloween with the Indianapolis hip-hop producer Harry Otaku. He’ll share tracks for his horror-themed rap album “It Tape”.
Stewart Copeland is best known as the co-founder and drummer of The Police - the legendary British rock band sold over 75 million records and won 5 Grammy awards. Copeland is also a prolific composer and arranger. He’s scored over 50 films and composed multiple operas and symphonic works. Copeland’s latest project “Police Deranged for Orchestra" brings both of these worlds together. The album features Copeland’s orchestral arrangements of 10 classic Police tracks. Copeland will bring his “Police Deranged for Orchestra" tour, to the Palladium in Central Indiana, on October 19th. The performance will include three vocalists, and a 28 piece orchestra.
This week on Cultural Manifesto, hear interviews with Rod Argent and Colin Blunstone of the legendary British rock band The Zombies - they'll be performing at the Brown County Music Center on October 19.Along with the Beatles and Rolling Stones, The Zombies were among the first wave of British Invasion bands to hit America during the 1960s. The Zombies were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2019, and their music continues to attract new generations of fans.We'll discuss The Zombies' classic 1968 album "Odessey and Oracle" and their latest recording, "Different Game."
This week on Cultural Manifesto Kyle Long talks with Bill Medley and Bucky Heard of the legendary R&B duo The Righteous Brothers. They are performing in Central Indiana this week. Medley will share his memories of touring with The Beatles and recording with Phil Spector.Kyle also speaks with the Indianapolis composer/instrument builder Rob Funkhouser and the clarinetist/composer Eric Salazar. They’ll tell us about their collaborative new release, “Study in Place Live.”
Last week in Broad Ripple, a mural depicting the late Indianapolis DJ and photojournalist Mpozi Tolbert was painted over. The mural’s erasure provoked widespread outrage in the community. The artist and musician Mike Graves joins Kyle Long to discuss Mpozi’s history in Indianapolis. Graves was a close friend and colleague of Mpozi. In 2016, Graves painted his own mural of Mpozi in Fountain Square in collaboration with artist Justin Cooper.We also look back at Farm Aid 2023 which happened last week in Noblesville, Indiana. The all-day music festival featured performances by iconic American musicians, from Willie Nelson to Neil Young. The event also celebrated the work of Indiana farmers, including Lauren McCalister of Ellettsville and Denise Greer Jamerson of Princeton. Hear their stories this week on Cultural Manifesto.
This week on Cultural Manifesto hear a preview of Indy Jazz Fest and Bloomington’s Lotus World and Music Arts Festival. We’ll share interviews with Indy Jazz Fest performers Stanley Clarke and Sheila E. Plus words and music from Lotus Festival artists, including Sonny Singh, RAM, and La Perla.
This week on Cultural Manifesto listen to an interview with the 20x Grammy-winning guitarist Pat Metheny — he’ll be performing at this year’s Indy Jazz Fest. Metheny will discuss his connections to Indiana and his long relationship with the music of Wes Montgomery.
This week on Cultural Manifesto listen to an interview with Andrés Salguero and Christina Sanabria of 123 Andrés - a Latin Grammy-winning duo who create bilingual music for children and families. The music of 123 Andrés incorporates rhythms from across North and South America, and features collaborations with legendary Latin music performers including Rubén Blades, and Gilberto Santa Rosa.Also, listen to the latest edition of Rebel Music with Karla López Owens, an ongoing series exploring the relationship between music and activism. Karla’s guest will be the activist and writer Prisca Dorcas Mojica Rodríguez. Prisca is the founder of the online platform Latina Rebels, and the author of the 2021 book "For Brown Girls with Sharp Edges and Tender Hearts: A Love Letter to Women of Color”. Prisca will be giving a free talk at the Madam Walker Legacy Center on September 12, as part of the IUPUI Chancellor’s Diversity Speaker Series.
Rebel Music with Karla López Owens is an ongoing series on Cultural Manifesto exploring the relationship between music and activism. On this episode, Karla’s guest is the activist and writer Prisca Dorcas Mojica Rodríguez. Prisca is the founder of the online platform Latina Rebels, and the author of the 2021 book "For Brown Girls with Sharp Edges and Tender Hearts: A Love Letter to Women of Color”. Prisca will be giving a free talk at the Madam Walker Legacy Center on September 12, as part of the IUPUI Chancellor’s Diversity Speaker Series. In this conversation, Prisca discusses some of the life experiences that shaped her writing, and shares music that inspired her along the way."
Listen to the latest edition of Finding Etheridge with Mat Davis, a new series exploring the people and places connected to the Indianapolis poet Etheridge Knight. Mat’s guest is poet Elizabeth Gordon McKim, Etheridge Knight’s partner and companion during the final years of his life. McKim lives in Lynn, Massachusetts. She recently visited Indianapolis for the unveiling of a new Etheridge Knight mural on Massachusetts Avenue. During the 1980s, Knight and McKim lived together on Mass Ave at the Barton Tower housing project. McKim will discuss her connection to Etheridge Knight, and her latest book “Elizabetheridge: A Memoir in Poetry”.
Finding Etheridge explores the people and places connected to the Pulitzer Prize-nominated poet Etheridge Knight. Etheridge Knight died in Indianapolis, Indiana in 1991, but his legacy grows stronger with each passing yearOn this episode of Finding Etheridge, Mat’s guest will be the poet Elizabeth Gordon McKim, Etheridge Knight’s partner and companion during the final years of his life.McKim lives in Lynn, Massachusetts. She recently visited Indianapolis for the unveiling of a new Etheridge Knight mural on Massachusetts Avenue. During the 1980s, Knight and McKim lived together on Mass Ave at the Barton Tower housing project. McKim will discuss her connection to Etheridge Knight, and her latest book “Elizabetheridge: A Memoir in Poetry”..
Finding Etheridge explores the people and places connected to the Pulitzer Prize-nominated poet Etheridge Knight. Etheridge Knight died in Indianapolis, Indiana in 1991, but his legacy grows stronger with each passing year.On this edition of Finding Etheridge Host Mat Davis, speaks with Hanako Gavia, great-niece to Etheridge Knight.Hanako Gavia is the Assistant Director of Butler University's Center for Citizenship & Community. An Indianapolis resident since childhood, Gavia is very close to her family - including Etheridge Knight's sisters Clyneese Bennett and Janice Knight.
This week on Cultural Manifesto, Kyle Long talks with the jazz trumpeter and classical music violinist, Justin S. Kinchen. We’ll discuss his EP "Family Reunion: A Tribute to Uncle Funkenstein.” The recording celebrates saxophonist Russell Webster’s 1983 double LP “Uncle Funkenstein,” one of the most revered Indianapolis jazz albums.Kyle also speaks with the legendary Indianapolis concert promoter Steve Sybesma, best known for his work with Sunshine Promotions. Sybesma was a co-founder of the Deer Creek Music Center, and helped to bring some of the biggest stars in music to Indianapolis - including Michael Jackson, Prince, The Rolling Stones, and many others. We’ll discuss Sybesma’s latest project, the All IN Music & Arts Festival, a two-day event happening at the Indiana State Fairgrounds.
This week on Cultural Manifesto listen to an interview with Oreo Jones, Jane Kim, and J. Brookinz — the organizers of Chreece, an all-day hip-hop festival happening in Fountain Square.
This year’s Chreece lineup features over 70 local hip-hop artists, along with the influential producer 9th Wonder, known for his work with Jay-Z, Destiny’s Child, Erykah Badu, Kendrick Lamar, Drake, and others.
This week on Cultural Manifesto, listen to an hour of words and music from the Bloomington-based guitarist TJ. Jones. He’s worked with several of the most legendary bands/artists in Indiana music - including Ebony Rhythm Funk Campaign, Screaming Gypsy Bandits, Caroline Peyton, and the IU Soul Review.
Jones’ music career started in Richmond, Indiana as a teenager. During the 1960s, his high school band The Vondells recorded an obscure single titled "Hey Girl You've Changed" for the local Airtown label. The record received no attention at the time of its release - but over the years its became a cult favorite among dancers in the British Northern Soul music scene. Today the Vondells’ original 45 release of "Hey Girl You've Changed" sells for over $3,500.
During the 1970s Jones relocated to Bloomington, quickly becoming a fixture in the city's music scene. Jones has recorded and performed with many prominent Bloomington artists, including Bill Wilson, the Ruthie Allen Band, Evolution, and more. Jones continues to make music in Bloomington today - both as a solo artist and with his band The Dynamics.
This week on Cultural Manifesto listen to an interview with the legendary jazz pianist Bob James.
Some music fans know James for writing the theme song to the hit television show Taxi, or through the extensive use of his work in hip-hop sampling — he’s one of the most sampled artists in the history of rap music. But few know that James’ first career breakthrough happened in South Bend, Indiana in 1962.
James will also discuss his collaboration with Indianapolis jazz legend Freddie Hubbard, and offer his thoughts on the use of his music in sampling.
This week on Cultural Manifesto listen to a preview of an upcoming concert by the Grammy-winning Indian-American vocalist Falu. She’ll be performing in Indianapolis this August with the American Patchwork Quartet. As a child in Mumbai, Falu studied North Indian classical music. Over the years she’s worked with a wide range of artists - including Philip Glass, A.R. Rahman, Karsh Kale, Pretty Lights, and many others.
Also hear new releases from Indianapolis musicians Hanna Benn and Jordan Munson.
This week on Cultural Manifesto listen to an interview with singer-songwriter Steve Earle, best known for his work in country music. Earle’s songs have been recorded by artists including Johnny Cash, Waylon Jennings, Carl Perkins, and Joan Baez — and in 2020, Earle was inducted into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame. We’ll discuss Earle’s connections to Indiana, and how he’s used his music to advocate for social justice.
Plus, a new edition of Finding Etheridge with Mat Davis for the second half of his conversation with poet Elizabeth Gordon McKim, Etheridge Knight’s partner during the final years of his life.
This week on Cultural Manifesto, listen to the latest edition of Finding Etheridge with Mat Davis, a new series exploring the people and places connected to the Indianapolis poet Etheridge Knight. Mat’s guest will be the poet Elizabeth Gordon McKim, Etheridge Knight’s partner and companion during the final years of his life.
McKim lives in Lynn, Massachusetts. She recently visited Indianapolis for the unveiling of a new Etheridge Knight mural on Massachusetts Avenue. During the 1980s, Knight and McKim lived together on Mass Ave at the Barton Tower housing project. McKim will discuss her connection to Etheridge Knight, and her latest book “Elizabetheridge: A Memoir in Poetry”.
We’ll also listen to new releases from two rising stars in the Indianapolis music scene: Taylor Hall and Oltanie Charles.
This week on Cultural Manifesto, hear an interview with Bill Levin, best known as the founder of Indiana’s First Church of Cannabis.
Levin also has a substantial history in the Indianapolis music scene. During the 1980s he promoted punk rock concerts and managed punk rock bands - including the legendary Indianapolis group Zero Boys.
This week on Cultural Manifesto we’ll talk with the reggae music icon Ziggy Marley. Hear about his work in the new Spiderman film, an upcoming biopic about his father Bob Marley, and his history of performing for PBS Kids’ shows — including Sesame Street, and Arthur.
We’ll also catch up with the Indianapolis-based jazz drummer, and hip-hop artist Dorian Phelps. His band, Hurricane and The Gang, just issued their debut recording Capture the Flag.
Finding Etheridge explores the people and places connected to the Pulitzer Prize-nominated poet Etheridge Knight. Etheridge Knight died in Indianapolis, Indiana in 1991, but his legacy grows stronger with each passing year.
On this edition of Finding Etheridge, Mat Davis talks with Michaal L L Collins. Collins is an Indianapolis-based poet, writer and literary critic. Collins was a close friend and protege of Etheridge Knight. Collins was one of the last participants of Knight’s Free Peoples Poetry Workshop, and has written several chapbooks of haiku inspired by Etheridge Knight.
Tune in this week for a special Pride month edition of Cultural Manifesto. We’re celebrating the legacy of Labyris, a feminist lesbian bar that operated near downtown Indianapolis from 1978 to 1984. Labyris hosted live performances from some of the biggest names in the women’s music movement, including Holly Near, Toshi Reagon, and June Millington, founder of the legendary rock band Fanny.
Kyle Long speaks with club’s founder Mary Byrne. He also talks with Lē Weaver, an Indianapolis musician who performed at Labyris, including rare recordings of Lē performing live at Labyris.
2023 marks the 50th anniversary of the birth of hip-hop music. Explore influential figures in Indianapolis' hip-hop history, from the 1970s to today, including Reggie Griffin who created beats for early rap classics including “The Message,” WSYW 801 A.M.’s rap radio format co-originator B-Boy Chilly T, Hit Makers Showcase host Paul Middlebrook, Mudkids’ co-founder Rusty Redenbacher, and Patrice 2 Fine, one of the first female rappers in Indianapolis to appear on record. Plus more from Rickie Clark, Grover Wilcher, Steve Weakley, N.A.P. and B.M.W.
Listen to words and music from artists including:
Reggie Griffin — He created the beats for many early rap classics at Sugar Hill Records, including Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five’s “The Message”.
B-Boy Chilly T — In 1991 he helped launch Indianapolis’ first radio station dedicated exclusively to rap music, WSYW 810 A.M., better known as “Yo! Eight-One-Oh!”.
Paul Middlebrook — During the 1980s he created and hosted “Hit Makers Showcase”, a public access cable program that documented early Indianapolis hip-hop culture.
Rusty Redenbacher — Co-founder of the The Mudkids, one of Indianapolis’ most influential underground hip-hop groups.
Indianapolis-based poet and spoken word artist Too Black discusses The Pendleton 2: They Stood Up, which he co-directed. The documentary tells the story of the 1985 prison uprising at the Indiana State Reformatory, now the Pendleton Correctional Facility. Prison activists John “Balagoon” Cole and Christopher “Naeem” Trotter, known collectively as the Pendleton 2, were issued de facto life sentences for their role in the uprising. The film explores the policies of the Indiana Department of Corrections, KKK-associated prison guards, solitary confinement and the community effort to push for Cole and Trotter’s release.
This week on Cultural Manifesto Kyle Long speaks with Dwani Phiri, a Zambian-born Indianapolis-based artist. Dwani's music blends the afrobeat sounds of his homeland with the hip-hop music he grew up with in Indiana.He'll also speak with NB Nakita, a unique electronic music producer and vocalist who grew up in Indianapolis. NB Nakita's music reflects her bicultural background, freely mixing language and genre.
Boot Scoot USA country music dance party organizers, Kevin Hofmeister and Kyle Nagy, share their journey from rap to country music.And Sarah Acra, who formed KPop Indiana, discusses how she created a community for fans of South Korean popular music here in the Hoosier state.
This week on Cultural Manifesto Host Kyle Long speaks with the experimental musician, artist manager, and Indianapolis civic leader Michael Kaufmann; and we celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month with music from Mar Mar Aye, an important Burmese singer living in Fort Wayne, Indiana.
This week on Cultural Manifesto, an hour of words and music with the classical music pianist, and arts activist Lara Downes. She’ll be performing the Florence Price piano concerto with the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra later this month.Downes has become a significant advocate for African American voices in classical music. She’s the host and creator of Amplify, an NPR series that features Downes in conversation with a wide range of Black musicians. She’s also creator and curator of Rising Sun Music, a recording label that focuses on the work of historic and contemporary Black composers.
This week on Cultural Manifesto Kyle interviews singer/songwriter Morgan Rae Webster. We’ll listen to her debut single “Let Go”, a song dedicated to her sister, who died from COVID-19.We’ll also have another edition of Finding Etheridge with Mat Davis, a new segment exploring the people and places connected to the late Indianapolis poet Etheridge Knight. This week’s guest will be Etheridge Knight’s great-niece Hanako Gavia.
This week on Cultural Manifesto we'll be joined by the singer-songwriter Shana Cleveland, best known for her work with the psychedelic garage band La Luz. Shana will be performing music from her new solo album Manzanita this month at the Hi-Fi. We'll also have another edition of Rebel Music with Karla Lopez. This week Karla's guest will be the Indiana State Senator Rodney Pol Jr., the first Latino elected to the Indiana senate. Senator Pol is a member of America Eats Its Young, a Parliament-Funkadelic tribute band based in Northwest Indiana. Senator Pol will discuss how the Parliament-Funkadelic's music has shaped his political consciousness.
This week on Cultural Manifesto I’ll speak with the rock and roll legend Graham Nash, best known for his work with The Hollies, and Crosby, Stills, and Nash. Graham Nash will be performing at the Palladium on April 23. I’ll also talk with the Pulitzer Prize-nominated composer Augusta Read Thomas, she’ll be premiering a new work titled “Toward A Secret Sky” with the Indianapolis Symphonic Choir on Friday, April 28 at the Hilbert Circle Theatre.
This week on Cultural Manifesto, world–renowned soprano vocalist Angela Brown. Brown made national news in 2004 with her debut performance at the Metropolitan Opera, in the starring role of Aida. Host Kyle Long and Angela discuss her early years in the Indianapolis music scene, and her work with literary figures including Toni Morrison, Mari Evans, and Maya Angelou.
This week on Cultural Manifesto we’ll celebrate the life and music of Greg Horn - a founding member of the legendary Indiana band Dow Jones and the Industrials. Horn passed away last week in Indianapolis. We'll be joined by the Indianapolis musician Vess Ruthenberg, who will share his thoughts on the legacy of Greg Horn's music. Ruthenberg performed with Dow Jones and The Industrials during a series of reunion shows in 2016. We’ll also have another edition of Rebel Music with Karla Lopez. This week Karla’s guest will be the union activist Jesse Brown.
This week on Cultural Manifesto we’ll celebrate Women’s History Month by paying tribute to the women pioneers of Indiana punk, new wave, and noise music. Tune in for an hour of words and music featuring Amoebas in Chaos, The Last 4 Digits, The Abstractions, Software and more.
This week on Cultural Manifesto, Jody Friend, of the Indianapolis-based rock band Public Universal Friend. Public Universal Friend will be celebrating the release of their second album "Chrysalis" with a special concert at the White Rabbit Cabaret on March 24th.Also on this episode, Kyle interviews legendary guitarist, producer, and songwriter Jim Messina. Messina will be performing at the Center For The Performing Arts in Carmel on March 22nd.
This March marks the 100th anniversary of the renowned jazz guitarist Wes Montgomery, one of the most beloved musicians to emerge from Indianapolis.This week on Cultural Manifesto we'll celebrate Montgomery's birthday by sharing excerpts from a never-before-heard 1964 recording of Wes Montgomery performing at the Circle Theater in Indianapolis. We'll also hear from the concert's promoter Herb Miller, best known as the founder of the Indianapolis soul music label Lamp Records.We also introduce a new segment on Cultural Manifesto titled Finding Etheridge. Finding Etheridge explores the people and places connected to the Pulitzer Prize-nominated poet Etheridge Knight.
A special two part episode featuring the musician and archivist Rick Wilkerson, a co-founder of the Indiana Music History Project, and the Indiana Musicpedia - an alphabetically-listed compendium of Indiana musicians, and music-related businesses.Wilkerson will share an A to Z playlist of Indiana music, featuring classic Hoosier jazz, funk, punk, folk and psychedelic music.
This week on Cultural Manifesto the Indianapolis-based rapper Skypp. His new album Sorry 4 My Trauma explores the trauma Skypp experienced growing up on the Eastside of Indianapolis, and his attempts to cope with that pain.Skypp is one of the most prominent voices in Indianapolis rap music. He's had multiple releases hit the iTunes rap charts, and he's performed alongside artists including DMX, Too $hort, Anthony Hamilton, Floetry, and Babyface.
This week on Cultural Manifesto we'll celebrate Black History Month by looking back at the work of Calvin Carter, an unsung figure in Indiana music,Carter was born in Gary, Indiana on May 27 of 1925. He's best known for his work with Vee-Jay Records, a label founded in Gary, Indiana in 1953 by his sister Vivian Carter. Carter worked as a songwriter, producer, arranger, and A&R manager for the label. We’ll focus on Carter’s work as a songwriter. Carter wrote, or co-wrote many classic rock and R&B hits - including The Spaniels' "Goodnite, Sweetheart, Goodnite", and Jerry Butler's "He Will Break Your Heart". Over the years, Carter’s songs have been performed by a wide range of artists, from Dolly Parton, to Aerosmith.
This week on Cultural Manifesto we speak with saxophonist Brandon Douthitt. He’s one of the featured performers at this year’s Art & Soul Festival. Douthitt will share his memories of performing at Afropunk with the R&B star Solange, and we’ll listen to his jazz interpretations of music from SpongeBob SquarePants. We'll also pay tribute to the Indianapolis big band singer Virginia Maxey, who recorded and performed with artists including Frank Sinatra and Tommy Dorsey. This year marks the 100th anniversary of her birth.
This week on Cultural Manifesto, we speak with Florence LaRue, an original member of the legendary ‘60s psychedelic soul group the 5th Dimension. LaRue has performed with the 5th Dimension for over 50 years, and on the eve of her 81st birthday, she’s taking the 5th Dimension back out on the road. We also have a new edition of Rebel Music with Karla Lopez. This week Karla’s guest is the activist and musician Isaias Guerrero. He’ll discuss his song "Preciosas Vidas Negras,” a Spanish language anthem for the Black Lives Matter movement.
This week on Cultural Manifesto we'll listen back to my 2017 interview with the 1960s rock icon David Crosby, he passed away last week at the age of 81. And we'll talk with the jazz pianist Isaiah J. Thompson, he’s one of the finalists in the American Pianist Associaiton’s Cole Porter Jazz Fellowship. We'll discuss Thompson's recent performance for NPR's Tiny Desk, and his tribute to the Indianapolis jazz legend Buddy Montgomery.
This week on Cultural Manifesto Indianapolis rapper and R&B vocalist Aye Marcay.Aye Marcay is a young artist, she’s only been releasing music for two years, but her work has already attracted National attention. In 2021 her track “Give Me Peace” was featured on a mixtape by the rap star Bow Wow. We'll listen to tracks from Aye Marcay's catalog, and she’ll share information about her family’s extensive history in Indiana music.
This week on Cultural Manifesto an interview with violinist Kevin Lin. Lin made news in 2020, when he left his role as co-leader of the London Philharmonic Orchestra, to take a position as concertmaster with the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra. Lin will discuss the ISO’s 2023 seasonWe’ll also have another edition of Rebel Music with Karla Lopez, this week’s featured guest is the librarian, archivist, and activist Stephen Lane, a member of the Indianapolis chapter of the Party for Socialism and Liberation. Lane will share how music has shaped his work as an archivist and activist.
Join Kyle Long as he listens back to words and music from a wide variety of local and national artists, including Angélique Kidjo, Sweet Poison Victim, RAM, Oltanie Charles, Emily Wells, Giauna Neville, and Mafer Bandola of Ladama.
Join Kyle Long as he listens back to some of his favorite interviews of 2022. Enjoy words and music from a wide variety of local and national artists, including Son Lux, Falu, Karate, Guns and Tanning, Medicine Singers, and Colin Blunstone of The Zombies.
If you hate Christmas music - don’t miss this week’s edition of Cultural Manifesto. Kyle shares an hour of holiday music from the Indianapolis-based label Joyful Noise Recordings.Joyful Noise Recordings has created a fascinating library of alternative Christmas music featuring important experimental musicians - including Jad Fair, Deerhoof, Sound of Ceres, Dale Crover, Kishi Bashi, Sedcairn Archives,Thor Harris, and more.Tune in for an hour of holiday music with Joyful Noise Recordings' founder Karl Hofstetter.
This week we'll pay tribute to the Indianapolis-born arranger, composer and jazz pianist Bob Hammer, who passed away last December at the age of 91. Hammer had a significant career in jazz music and is best remembered for his association with the jazz legend Charles Mingus. Hammer wrote arrangements for some of Mingus’ most critically acclaimed albums. Mingus referred to Hammer as "my Beethoven."
Enjoy words and music with Debbie Jaffe. co-founder of cassette label Cause And Effect.
Explore Hoosier musicians who brought northern soul dance culture of England to Indiana.
Celebrate Pride Month with two important Indianapolis artists: Lē Weaver and Jody Friend.
Explore the career of Geno Shelton, a legendary Indianapolis radio host, DJ and promoter.
Lead vocalist for legendary British rock band The Zombies sits down with us to discuss the band’s history.
This week we’ll pay tribute to Herman Whitfield III, an Indianapolis composer and pianist who died last week while in police custody. Plus, new music from Sonny Singh and Jordan Munson.
Enjoy a centennial celebration of Kokomo, Indiana's Margaret Hillis - one of the most prominent Hoosier musicians of the 20th Century and the founder of the Chicago Symphony Chorus.
Native Sun is an Indianapolis group that combines elements of hip-hop and jazz. Their new album "Never Be King" features guest appearances from several local artists.
Kyle Long talks with Dana Skully of the Indianapolis band Dana Skully and The Tiger Sharks. Plus, in a new edition of Rebel Music, Karla Lopez talks to Mistie Cisneros of the Immigrant Welcome Center.
Celebrate Jazz Appreciation Month by exploring the lost jazz world of Terre Haute. During the '20s and '30s, the city was home to a thriving jazz scene.
Gary Walters is a pianist and composer who has recorded a huge range of music. Enjoy rare, unreleased recordings featuring his work with the legendary Indianapolis jazz fusion band Speakeasy.
Celebrate the life of Evansville, Indiana soul music legend Timmy Thomas, who passed away earlier this month. Thomas was best known for his 1972 recording “Why Can't We Live Together."
In celebration of Women's History Month, revisit some of our interviews with Hoosier women who've made history in the Indiana music scene, including Dena El Saffar, Niambi Steele, and Mary Byrne.
This week on we're celebrating Women’s History Month with an hour of music from the legendary soul women of Northwest Indiana.
Composer, vocalist and multi-instrumentalist Emily Wells shares music from her new album "Regards to the End”, which reflects on the AIDS crisis of the 1980s, and the present day climate crisis.
Steeltown Records is remembered for issuing the first ever recording from the Jackson 5 - but the label was home to a fantastic collective of musicians and songwriters who deserve greater recognition.
Discover the music of the De Paris Brothers from Crawfordsville, Indiana. The two performed with some of the greatest legends of jazz music, including Louis Armstrong, Duke Ellington and more.
Explore the music of Hoosier jazz pianist Jack Wilson, who recorded for some of the biggest labels in jazz music and performed with some of the most significant figures in American music.
Explore the music of Evansville, Indiana's Belford “Sinky” Hendricks. You may not recognize Belford Hendricks by name, but you’ve likely heard the music he wrote and arranged.
In the 1970s, Moe Whittemore opened the 700 West studio in the living room of his family’s home in New Palestine, Indiana. During the studio’s run, Moe recorded a diverse array of Indiana music.
Trombonist Ernest Stuart has worked extensively in the Naptown music scene and performed around the world with artists including Aretha Franklin, The Roots, John Legend, Red Baraat, and more.
Indiana lost some of its most prominent and important musicians in 2021 - from iconic figures to up and coming voices. This week we’ll say a final goodbye to the Indiana musicians we lost last year.
This week Kyle Long speaks with house music producer Oliver Lastname, a prolific video director, as well as experimental pop artist Percbuddy.
This week Kyle Long listens back at some of his favorite local music, and interviews of 2021, and looks ahead to some of the interviews he'll be featuring in 2022.
This week we're enjoying music from Santa Claus... Santa Claus, Indiana to be specific. We’ll look back on the work of the songwriter, music publisher and record producer Ray Scrivener.
Indiana has produced many extraordinary women who’ve made important contributions to electronic music. This week, enjoy music and words from Priscilla Mclean, Suzanne Ciani, Hanna Benn and more.
During the 1980s, Hal McGee and his former partner Debbie Jaffe recorded and released groundbreaking noise music and industrial music on an underground cassette label called Cause and Effect.
Among his many accomplishments, Steve Allee toured with jazz legend Buddy Rich as a teenager, co-founded the Baron Von Ohlen Quintet, and served as musical director for the Bob and Tom radio show.
This week we honor legendary trombonist Slide Hampton. Slide was one of the most accomplished musicians to emerge from Indianapolis, performing with some of the greatest names in American music.
Explore the life and music of Caroline Peyton, one of the most powerful voices in the history of Indiana music. Peyton performed across a variety of genres and providing vocals for Disney films.
Terence Blanchard's opera “Fire Shut Up in My Bones” was the first the opera composed by an African American to be performed at New York City's Metropolitan Opera in its 138 year history.
This week we’ll look at two upcoming events at the newly renovated Walker Theatre with jazz drummer Kenny Phelps and playwright Vernon A. Williams.
This week we're revisiting our conversation with Don Worsham and Steve Everitt. From 1968-1972, they were part of a group of Indianapolis pirate radio broadcasters who created Radio Free Naptown.
A sound map is a sonic representation of a specific site or location. This week, Kyle Long explores two different projects that have created sound maps of Indianapolis.
Join guest-host Karla Lopez-Owens for a special Hispanic Heritage Month edition of Cultural Manifesto. Enjoy an hour of Hispanic Hoosier music from the past and present.
Indianapolis jazz guitarist Charlie Ballantine discusses his new double album titled “Reflections/Introspection: The Music of Thelonious Monk.”
Jody Friend of Public Universal Friend discusses the band's debut album "Perennials." The record served as a coming out for Jody, who used it to publicly acknowledge her identity as a trans woman.
Explore this year's edition of the Lotus World Music and Arts Festival in Bloomington, Indiana. Hear from artists performing at this year's festival, including David Dávila González of Matixando.
Drummer Richard ”Sleepy” Floyd presents a preview of the 2021 Indy Jazz Fest. He also shares tracks from Native Sun’s ”Legalize Being Black," a composition addressing the Black Lives Matter movement.
Orval “Baggie” Hardimon, legend of the Kokomo music scene, is spotlighted in this week’s episode. Kyle Long showcases rare and unreleased work by Hardimon, as well as celebrating the 50th anniversary of an album co-written by a Hoosier — Marvin Gaye’s “What’s Going On.”
You may know Daniel Smith from his work with the Danielson Famile, or his solo project Brother Daniel. This week, Kyle Long talks with Smith about the music he composed for the film "Electric Jesus."
Indianapolis folk musician Rich Hynes discusses his new album out titled “Old Naptown Blues", a collection of eight songs that pay tribute to legendary Indianapolis musicians and neighborhoods.
Enjoy an hour of recordings from the pioneers of Hoosier Latin music, including rare and unreleased tracks from Johnny Ramos and Los Latinos, Bob Najera, Rick Espinoza, and others.
Kyle Long discusses “A Killing Year” with creator Jordan Munson. Karla Lopez interviews Irvington Vinyl and Books owner Elysia Lucida Smith. Finally, a tribute to the late Indianapolis-based musician Eugene “Teddy” Vincent.
Years ago, Kyle Long purchased a mysterious tape at a garage sale. This tape contained the only known recordings of the 1961 Indiana Jazz Festival, in Evansville, Indiana
You may have heard of Mary Byrne's work advocating for the LGBTQ+ community in Indiana, but Byrne also had a significant role in Hoosier music history and women’s music across the country.
Explore the music of Hoosier songwriter J. Russel Robinson, an important figure in early jazz and blues music. Robinson's songs were recorded by icons like Louis Armstrong, Bessie Smith and more.
Kyle talks with members of the Indianapolis-based Latin jazz band Pavel and Direct Contact about their new album “Dia Bonito." Activist and musician Sonny Singh shares music from his solo project.
Idris Busari, a Nigerian-born musician who creates music under the name Omogo Reloaded, discusses his music and work with Radio Horizonte, a bilingual radio station based in northern Indiana.
Kyle Long presents part two of his interview with with Lē Weaver, a founding member of the all-female Indianapolis synth-rock band Software. Software was active in Central Indiana from 1983 to 1986.
Kyle Long presents part one of a two-part series with Lē Weaver, a founding member of the all-female Indianapolis synth-rock band Software. Software was active in Central Indiana from 1983 to 1986.
Visual artist Samuel E Vázquez discusses his music project Errors and Lovers. Then, Rep. André Carson shares how his early years as an activist and rapper in Indianapolis shaped his work today.
Explore the debut album from 81355, an Indianapolis hip-hop supergroup featuring Oreo Jones, Sirius Black, and David Moose Adamson. The album is titled This Time I'll Be of Use."
This week, Kyle talks with blues musician Marcus Jade. Currently based in Brooklyn, New York, Jade's music is deeply rooted in the Westside Indianapolis neighborhoods where he grew up.
Indiana has an extraordinary legacy of soul music. This week we'll hear from two Indianapolis-based R&B artists that have new projects out: Keiana Whatley, and Taylor Hall.
Indianapolis is not known as a hotbed for techno music, but the city has produced several noteworthy techno producers and DJs including Drake Strange, Adam Jay, and Lisa Smith.
Meet two Indy residents whose work has intersected with the Funkadelic piece One Nation Under A Groove: visual artist Lobyn Hamilton and former Parliament-Funkadelic stage technician Tom Battista.
This week's guest is singer-songwriter Emily Rodgers. Kyle Long features tracks off Emilys new album I Will Be Gone, and discusses her time growing up in Elkhart, IN.
Kyle talks with drummer Ian Chang about the new Son Lux album Tomorrows III and Chang's work outside the band. Plus, Karla Lopez talks with Kyra Harvey, co-founder of Indy 10 Black Lives Matter.
Kyle Long explores vocal music from Indianapolis past and present, including new music from the Indianapolis based composer Hanna Benn and a look back at the music of vocal group The Four Freshmen.
Kyle Long continues exploring the rich history of Asian, African and Latin music traditions in Indiana, with music from Salaam, Santos Candelaria, Prince Julius Adeniyi, and Pavel & Direct Contact.
Meet three Hoosier artists whove brought the sounds of Africa, Latin America and Asia to Indiana: Sutiweyu Sandoval, DJ Stephan Vohito, and Teacher Ka of the Indianapolis Chinese Orchestra.
Indianapolis based emcee Skypp joins Kyle Long to discuss his time in the Indianapolis hip-hop scene, and how hes using his music to address the legacy of systemic racism in Indiana.
Kyle Long celebrates Womens History Month by paying tribute to the legendary country music women of Indiana, including nationally known stars and local recordings from across the Hoosier state.
Celebrate the 100th anniversary of the birth of Gary, Indiana's Vivian Carter. During the 1950s, Carter co-founded the influential independent record label Vee-Jay Records.
Explore the musical legacy of Gary, Indiana's Bud Pressner. His career in music stretched over 50 years and covered an enormous range of musical expression, from big bands to electronic dance music.
Indy musicians Oreo Jones, Sirius Blvck, and David "Moose" Adamson preview their new project 81355, which was recently signed to 37d03d, a record label founded by members of Bon Iver and The National.
Explore the music of Note Records, an influential Indianapolis record label founded by brothers Mel and Jerry Herman during the early rock and roll era of 1950s.
Enjoy words and music with this year's Art & Soul performers, including Yadin Kol, Bashiri Asad, Chris Pitts, Staci McCrackin, Clint Breeze, and Ashlee Baskin.
Explore the work of the celebrated folklorist, musician, and painter Art Rosenbaum. During the mid-20th century, Rosenbaum made a series of field recordings of traditional Indiana music.
Kyle Long explores the ways musicians have attempted to humanize and memorialize the tragic loss of life in Indiana through song.
Kyle Long features an hour of historic music written and performed by inmates at the Indiana State Prison in Michigan City, Indiana, including country songs by Hank Ferguson, blues from Eugene Rhodes, a rare recording of Indianapolis poet Etheridge Knight singing, and an infamous 1974 recording of "John the Baptist", a rock opera written and performed by Indiana State Prison inmates.
Kyle Long continues his ongoing tribute to the country music pioneers of central Indiana, including Bobby Helms, D.C. Mullins, Bryant Wilson and The Kentucky Ramblers, Delmer Sexton, Ginny Allyn, and more.
Host Kyle Long looks back at some of his favorite interviews from 2020 - including a chat with the Bloomington, Indiana based Middle Eastern music ensemble Salaam.
On this episode of Cultural Manifesto host Kyle Long speaks with guitarist and electronic music producer Rafiq Bhatia, best known for his work with Son Lux. They talk about the new Son Lux album Tomorrows II, and also discuss Rafiq's latest solo release Standards Volume 1, a collection of radically reworked jazz standards.
On this edition of Cultural Manifesto host Kyle Long pays tribute to Ron Miner, better known as DJ Indiana Jones. Ron Miner passed away last week at the age of 50.
Host Kyle Long continues his tribute to the country music pioneers of Indianapolis with rare recordings from local country music record labels based in Fountain Square, Irvington, and Beech Grove. He also shares music from early Indianapolis country music radio stars like Darling Nellie Brown, and Evalina Stallard.
Jared Thompson of Premium Blend joins host Kyle Long to discuss the band's new concert documentary film 38th & Postmodernism.
On this week's show Kyle shares live audio from the Jazz Kitchen's Naptown Sound concert series. Some performances shared are from Premium Blend, Sophie Faught, and Bashiri Asad. Kyle also asks a wide range of Indianapolis jazz musicians to define the "Naptown sound."
This week on Cultural Manifesto Kyle's guest is jazz harpist Jan Aldridge Clark. We' discuss her new album Moving Forward. The Moving Forward album was produced by Clark's son Willis, a prominent Indianapolis-based rapper and beatmaker. Moving Forward features a unique mix of harp music and hip-hop.
On this edition of Cultural Manifesto host Kyle Long continues a look at the history of country music in Indianapolis. During the mid-20th Century Indianapolis was home to a vibrant country music scene. Music is shared from Judy Perkins, Arnold Keith Storm, Eldon Baker and The Brown County Revelers, Oscar and Jaunita Shehan, Emry Arthur, The Swanee River Boys, and Jame Cole, a Black Indianapolis fiddler player who was active in the 1920s and '30s.
Joining host Kyle Long on this eiditon of Cultural Manifesto are Carrington Clinton, Pernell From Pike, Chris Pitts, and Jared Thompson of Clint Breeze and The Groove. The group previews tracks off their upcoming album Endtime Overture.
On this edition of Cultural Manifesto host DJ Kyle Long shares recordings from Hoosier electronic music pioneers, including some rare unreleased music from composer Tom Jordan's 1978 multimedia performance Space Scape, which attracted over 4,000 attendees to the Indianapolis Museum of Art.
This week on Cultural Manifesto Kyle is joined by Indianapolis jazz guitarist Charlie Ballantine. In this episode there is discussion of Charlie's new album Vonnegut, which features nine original compositions inspired by the work of Kurt Vonnegut.
In this episdoe of Cultural Manifesto Kyle Long features the second half of his conversation with the Indiana punk rock and new wave music pioneer Jim Skafish. The two discuss the 40th anniversary reissue of his self-titled debut album Skafish.
Kyle Long interviews Northwest Indiana punk rock and new wave music pioneer Skafish. We discuss the 40th anniversary reissue of Skafish's self-titled debut album, which addressed issues like homophobia and body shaming years before these topics entered the national dialogue.
Kyle spins music from Lotus performers, and talks with Lotus Fest's executive director Tamara Lowenthal. he is also joined by vocalist Nohelia Sosa of Nohe Y Sus Santos, one of the featured acts at this year's Lotus Fest.
In this episode Kyle speaks with Indianapolis drummer, bandleader, and beat maker Carrington Clinton - better known as Clint Breeze. His new album We Good builds on his past work mixing jazz and hip-hop with themes of social justice.
Joining host Kyle Long are Nicole O'Neal, Greg O'Neill, and Natasha O'Neill of the Indianapolis band Wife Patrol. We'll be listening to tracks off their new record Too Prickly for This World.
This week, Kyle Long continues his ongoing tribute to the country music pioneers of Indianapolis, featuring music by early Indianapolis country music radio stars like T. Texas Tyler, Bill Haley, and Wilma Lee Cooper; along with music from homegrown Indianapolis favorites like the Hoosier Hot Shots, Charlie Stewart, and Sonny Grubbs.
This week Kyle's guest is composer and vocalist Ryan Lott of Son Lux. The group's new album "Tomorrows I" is discussed.
During the 1950s Indianapolis was home to a thriving doo-wop music scene, particularly on Indiana Avenue where artists including The Four Sounds, The Counts, and The Monograms flourished. On this week's edition of Cultural Manifesto host Kyle Long shares a selection of Indianapolis doo-wop classics. He also speaks with several notable Indianapolis musicians who got their start singing doo-wop.
Joining Kyle this week is the Indianapolis-based hip-hop artist Retro. We hear his new single "Cripple Cool," an autobiographical track featuring rhymes laced with wit and humor, as Retro raps about living with cerebral palsy.
This week on Cultural Manifesto host Kyle Long pays tribute to some of the pioneers of Indianapolis country music. During the mid-20th Century there were dozens of Indianapolis nightclubs, and record labels catering to the growing popularity of country music. While radio and television programs like the Indiana Hoedown, WIBC Jamboree, and Hoosier Barn Dance broadcast local and national country music stars into central Indiana homes.
This week Kyle long features music from a few of those artists this week, including: Bill Jennings, Floyd Smith, Steven Weakley, Paul Weeden, Scrapper Blackwell, and others.
This week, Kyle Long explores the history of Radio Free Naptown, an illegal pirate radio station that operated in Indianapolis from 1968 to 1972. He's joined by two of the station's founders, Don Worsham and Steve Everitt.
Kyle is joined this week this week by Indianapolis music legend Rondey Stepp. The two discuss Rodney's recent battle with COVID-19. Doctors at IU Health North referred to Stepp as the "miracle patient" after his dramatic recovery from the disease.
Kyle Long speaks with the Indianapolis musician and producer Grover Wilcher about his years performing with the R&B group World Entity, and his work recording and releasing early Indianapolis rap music from groups including Tibbs Street Posse and B.M.W.
On this episode of Cultural Manifesto week Kyle's guest is Juan Antonio Cuellar, the head digitizing engineer of the Strachwitz Frontera Collection, the largest archive of Mexican and Mexican-American music in existence. Juan has spent the last 18 years personally digitizing and archiving over 120,000 recordings in this collection, and he selected a few favorites to share on Cultural Manifesto.
This week's show features an interview with Taylor Hall, a nineteen-year-old musician/activist. Hall is a member of Black Women in Charge, the organization behind the Saturday, June 6, 2020 historic protest at the Indiana Statehouse. Hall performs a song written in tribute to George Floyd titled "I Can't Breathe."
This week, Kyle Long features Indiana music of peaceful protest, including an interview with Tyron Cooper, a professor with Indiana University's African American and African Diaspora Studies department.
The Indiana Avenue neighborhood is known for it's celebrated jazz history, but the Avenue was also a hotbed for early rock & roll and rhythm & blues music. On this week's show Kyle Long pays tribute to the rock & roll pioneers of Indiana Avenue.
Joining Kyle Long on the show this week is John Loflin. The two discuss John's journey in music, from growing up playing country music in Fountain Square in the 1950s, to joining the first reggae band in Indianapolis during the 1980s.
On this week's show Kyle's guest is Elayne Jones, a world renown percussionist and the first Black woman in the New York Philharmonic Orchestra. Jones worked with some of the greatest orchestras and conductors of the 20th Century, including Leopold Stokowski and Duke Ellington.
Host Kyle Long talks with Father Amde of the Watts Prophets, their 1971 debut release is widely regarded as the first rap album.
Kyle interviews guitarist Rodney Wood, and listens to the The Fatelics's demo recordings.
Host Kyle Long pays tribute to some of the legendary women of Indianapolis soul music, with interviews and music from: Lois Blaine, Aretta La Marre, The Pearls, The Indy's, The Sentimentals, Debbie Nelson, Mary Brown, and Niambi Steele of 24 Carat Black.
This week, Kyle takes a look at the NPR's Tiny Desk Contest. Small Studio Sessions producer Melissa Davis joins the show to discuss the evolution of the WFYI's music series and its connection to the Tiny Desk contest. Kyle also airs his chat 2017 Tiny Desk winners Tank and The Bangas, and shares his interview with this month's Small Studio artist Okara Imani.
This week Kyle's guests are Dena El Saffar and Tim Moore of Salaam, a Middle Eastern music ensemble based in Bloomington. Kyle shares tracks from their new album Mediterranean Nights.
On this week's show host Kyle Long looks back to the 1920s, '30s and '40s to examine how Indianapolis musicians dealt with the severe economic and social problems brought on by catastrophic events like the Great depression and World War II. Kyle focuses on the music of Leroy Carr, Scrapper Blackwell, Little Bill Gaither, and Emry Arthur.
This week Kyle's guest is the Indianapolis jazz vocalist Sandy Lomax, who found success performing in Europe during the 1990s.
On this episode of Cultural Manifesto Kyle is joined by rock musician Rick Espinoza, a pioneer of Mexican-America music in Indianapolis.
On this edition of Cultural Manifesto Kyle Long's guest is jazz vocalist Yvonne Allu. Kyle and Yvonne listen to tracks off her new record 'Clymate Change.'
This week on Cultural Manifesto host Kyle Long celebrates the 97th anniversary of the birth of jazz guitarist Wes Montgomery. Kyle shares interviews featuring Wes' family, friends, and fellow musicians - including Herbie Hancock, Zakir Hussain, and others.
This week, Kyle talks with Indianapolis blues and R&B vocalist Debbie Nelson of the In Full Transition band. The two discuss her early years growing up along Indiana Avenue.
This week Kyle's guests are Mike Woods and Sandy Lomax of the legendary Indianapolis funk band Soul Relation. We discuss the band's legacy, and listen to some excellent unreleased recordings the band made during the 1970s.
This week host Kyle Long's guest is Indianapolis rapper/producer Willis. The two discuss his new album 'Welcome to the Universe.'
Kyle's guests are pianist Rev. Marvin Chandler and vocalist Everett Greene, who have been performing jazz music together in Indianapolis for over twenty years. The conversation focuses on the life of Rev. Chandler, from his work in music, to his work as an activist for civil rights.
This week, Kyle Long talks with Indianapolis-based DJ and electronic music producer D. Strange.
This week, Kyle Long talks with jazz saxophonist Amanda Gardier about her new album "Flyover Country."
This week Kyle Long revisits some of his favorite interviews of 2019, including: Tank and The Bangas, Lonnie Holley, Anila Agha, Amerikkken, and Destiny Muhammad.
Host Kyle Long pays tribute to Rev. James Davis, founder and lead vocalist of the Indianapolis soul group "The Vanguards". Davis passed away in October of 2019.
During the 1950s and '60s the Indianapolis Recorder held all-night Christmas concerts at the Walker Theatre. These concerts raised funds for families in need, and helped launch the careers of many Indianapolis musicians. Host Kyle Long speakes with several musicians who performed at these events.
This week, Kyle long talks with visual artist Anila Agha to discuss her new installation "This is Not a Refuge." Saxophonist Rob Dixon also joins the show to talk about his holiday themed concert at the Jazz Kitchen.
On this edition of Cultural Manifesto Kyle Long is joined in studio by Daniel Paquette, best known as the popular children's music performer Mr. Daniel. The two discuss how Paquette's past work performing experimental punk rock and anarchist folk music all coalesced into the children's music he creates as Mr. Daniel.
This week Kyle pays tribute to Indianapolis percussionist Raul Padro, who passed away last month. Also in theis episode, an interview with Crow Nation hip-hop artist @Supamanhiphop
Host Kyle Long continues with his LAMP Records coverage, this week he speaks with members of the popular Indianapolis soul group Words of Wisdom.
Kyle speaks with Bill Simmons, co-founder of Midnight Star. During the 1980s Midnight Star released a series of influential hit records merging electronic dance music with R&B - but Bill Simmons spent his early years performing with local funk and soul bands here in Indianapolis.
On this episode Kyle talks with members of Midwest '70s funk group The Hamilton Movement. Topics of conversation include the band's association with comedian Rudy Ray Moore, which led to Moore premiering his 1975 film Dolemite in Indianapolis.
Host Kyle Long continues his Lamp Records coverage with a program featuring John "Ricky" Jackson, an original member of the Indianapolis funk group Ebony Rhythm Band.
On this episode Kyle's guest is vocalist soul Paul Middlebrook of The P.H.D.'s. During the '60s and '70s The P.H.D.'s were a popular attraction on the Indianapolis live music scene. In 1970 the group issued a sought after single on the Lamp Records label.
Kyle Long presents part two of his series on the legendary Indianapolis funk band Amnesty.
Kyle presents part one of his two part series documenting the legendary Indianapolis funk group Amnesty. In this episode, hear from the group's three surviving members: Joe Trotter, Rafael Barnes, and Gino Johnson.
To celebrate the new WFYI documentary The Revolutionist: Eugene V. Debs, I'll be featuring an hour of protest music - including a look back to my 2018 interview with musician/activist Barbara Dane.
This week Kyle Long shares an interview with the legendary Indianapolis funk drummer Matthew Watson. During the late '60s Watson co-founded the psychedelic funk group Ebony Rhythm Band. Watson died earlier this month at the age of 72.
This week's edition of Cultural Manifesto may be the most significant program Kyle has ever produced. this episode features an hour of previously unheard music from the legendary Indianapolis band Merging Traffic. Plus commentary from two of the band's founding members: Kenny Simms and George Benn.
Kyle chats with Cuban jazz legend Arturo Sandoval ahead of his 2019 Indy Jazz Fest show. Then, a preview of the 2019 Lotus Fest in Bloomington, IN beginning September 26, 2019.
Kyle celebrates Ken Burns' PBS documentary "Country Music" with a tribute to Indianapolis country music legend Lattie Moore. "Country Music" premieres Sunday, September 15, 2019 on PBS.
On this episode of Cultural Manifesto Kyle Long continues coverage of the new anthology from @NowAgain documenting the Indianapolis soul music label LAMP Records. Joining Kyle is vocalist Pam Davis-Tanner.
This week host Kyle Long talks with HarryOtaku and Pernell From Pike from the new rap group C-Lunch. They all listen to the C-Lunch debut release "Commercial Break".
Kyle Long talks with rapper ameriKKKen in advance of her performance at Chreece Hip-Hop Festival. The festival takes place Saturday, August 24, 2019 in Fountain Square.
This week Kyle's guest is LAMP Records founder Herb Miller, he and Kyle talk about the label's rise in Indianapolis and the new LAMP anthology "It Glowed Like The Sun: The Story of Naptown's Motown" from @nowagain Records.
This week Kyle's guests are The Brothers Footman, an Indianapolis band who blend country, soul, pop, and hip-hop influences into a unique new sound.
Joining host Kyle Long are Joel and Nick Tucker of The Tucker Brothers. In this episode, they preview tracks off their new LP Two Parts.
This July 2019 @NowAgain Records released their anthology of the Indianapolis soul label LAMP. To celebrate the release, host Kyle Long interviews James Davis, founder of LAMP's hit group The Vanguards.
This week Kyle's guests are: the psychedelic Brazilian singer-songwriter Sessa, and Barcelona, Spain's Alma Afrobeat.
Host Kyle Long interviews Indianapolis blues singer Queen Delphine of Queen Delphine and The Crown Jewels.
This week on Cultural Manifesto, Jared Thompson of Premium Blend joins Kyle Long. A preview of tracks from the new Premium Blend album 'Vices'. Also a discussion with Jared about his work with other Indianapolis groups including Clint Breeze and The Groove, and Too Black and The Blacks.
This week, Kyle Long talks with Indianapolis funk legend Reggie Griffin about his journey from playing sax with Billy Ball and The Upsetters as a teenager, to forming Manchild with Kenny "Babyface" Edmonds in the '70s, to his work producing iconic hip-hop beats for Sugar Hill Records in the 1980s.
This week host Kyle Long's guest is the legendary Indianapolis rhythm and blues vocalist Jimmy Guilford.
Kyle shares interviews from the 2019 Big Ears Festival with Meredith Monk, Lonnie Holley, and Amirtha Kidambi.
On this week's show Kyle celebrates the great blues women of Indianapolis. He shares music from artists who worked Indiana Avenue in the '40s and '50s, and talks with current voices on the scene, such as, Queen Delphine.
On this week's show host Kyle Long speak with pianist Clare Longendyke founder of Music In Bloom, a festival celebrating the work of living composers happening from May 16 -18, 2019 in Bloomington, IN.
This week Kyle's guest is Moe Whittmore of 700 West Records. During the 1970s Moe recorded historically important funk, soul, and psychedelic rock music from his family's home in New Palestine, Indiana. We talk about a new compilation of his work titled "Best of 700 West - Volume 2".
Host Kyle Long speaks with Carrington Clinton and Purnell Jones of Clint Breeze and the Groove about their new album. Also, a preview of the Woo Grl Festival.
This week Kyle's guest is Ryan Lott of @sonlux. The two talk about the new Son Lux box set released by @JoyfulNoiseRecs.
This week on Cultural Manifesto, Zakir Hussain, a Grammy-winning tabla drum virtuoso known for his collaborations with jazz, rock and classical musicians from George Harrison, to the Grateful Dead's Mickey Hart to Yo-Yo Ma, and Pharoah Sanders. Zakir's music has made him one of India's top cultural ambassadors.
To close out Women's History Month host Kyle Long playa music from historically important musicians with roots in the Indianapolis music scene, including: Sarah McLawler, Anna Mae Winburn & The International Sweethearts of Rhythm, The Hampton Sisters, and Flo Garvin.
This week Kyle speaks with author David Williams, they discuss his new book Indianapolis Rhythm & Blues which documents the development of R&B music on Indiana Avenue during the 1950s and '60s.
This week on Cultural Manifesto, Destiny Muhammad and Pavel of Direct Contact. Destiny Muhammad is a jazz harpist who grew up in Compton, she calls herself the 'harpist from the hood.' Destiny will talk about her influences on the harp, and I'll share music from her album Sonic Legacy, a tribute to the late Alice Coltrane. Pavel and Direct Contact are the premier Latin jazz band in Indianapolis. Pavel will be sharing some music from his latest album D' La Calle.
This week on Cultural Manifesto, host Kyle Long speaks with musician Cyrus Youngman. Cyrus shares how his struggle with a debilitating skeletal condition influenced his new album, "Your life will never be the same."
On this week's Cultural Manifesto, the Indianapolis-based composer Jordan Munson shares music from his score for the Phoenix Theatre's production of Hotel Nepenthe.
On this week's show Kyle continues his exploration of classic Hoosier gospel music, with tunes from The Mighty Indiana Travelers, King James Version, The Sacred Four, and many more... including the Stovall Sisters, whose big break came after providing the background vocals for Norman Greenbaum's 1969 #1 hit "Spirit in the Sky".
A very special edition and important slice of Indianapolis music history on Cultural Manifesto this time. Host Kyle Long speaks with vocalist Reggie Gammon, a founding member of the legendary Indianapolis gospel group The Music Masters. The Music Masters' innovative mix of gospel and soul music propelled the group to national acclaim and helped launch the career of Indianapolis gospel music icon Al Hobbs.
This week on Cultural Manifesto, Host Kyle Long talks with Indianapolis musician Oreo Jones about his new experimental R & B project : "Michael Raintree".
This week host Kyle Long speaks with rapper and producer Diop Adiso, whose new album Still Shinin' was created in part as a means to cope with an unexpected loss.
This week host Kyle Long looks back at some of his favorite interviews and music of 2018, with a focus on the Indianapolis soul scene. This episode includes words and music from The Vanguards, Pam Tanner of The Pearls/Ebony Rhythm Funk Campaign, Henry and Josephine of The Sentimentals, LAMP Records founder Herbert T Miller Sr, Kate Lamont, BYBYE, and Rodney Stepp.
This week on Cultural Manifesto DJ Kyle Long listens back on some of his favorite jazz interviews of 2018, including Herbie Hancock, Monika Herzig, and Rob Dixon.
This week Cultural Manifesto features some of Kyle's favorite hip-hop content from 2018 shows, including Kyro The Artist, Skypp, and Keiana Whatley.
Host Kyle Long reflects on the amazing guests this year on Cultural Manifesto - from jazz icon Herbie Hancock, to folk music pioneer Barbara Dane. For the next couple weeks on Cultural Manifesto we look back at some of Kyle's favorite interviews and music of 2018, and look ahead to 2019. On this episode, words and music from: soul music outsider Swamp Dogg, The Beach Boys' Brian Wilson, Ryan Lott of Son Lux, 24 Carat Black's C Niambi Steele, trombonist and Tribe Records' co-founder Phil Ranelin, George Benn and Kenny Simms of the legendary Indianapolis jazz fusion band Merging Traffic, singer-songwriter Yadin Kol, and soul singer extraordinaire Keiana Whatley.
On this Cultural Manifesto host Kyle Long talks with two of his favorite Indiana musicians: multi-instrumentalist and composer Dena El Saffar and percussionist Tim Moore. 2018 marks the 25th anniversary of their band Salaam, a fantastic Middle Eastern music ensemble Dena founded as a student at Indiana University. In addition to their work in Salaam, Dena and Tim are also members of Rivers of Sound, an extraordinary 17 piece orchestra that fuses elements of traditional Iraqi maqam with contemporary Western jazz. Rivers of Sound have performed at festivals and concert halls around the world, including Newport Jazz Festival, and the London Jazz Festival. The Chicago Tribune just ranked Rivers of Sound's February performance at Orchestra Hall as one of the best jazz concerts of 2018.
2018 marks the 50th anniversary for Indy's first Black owned/operated radio station WTLC. This week on Cultural Manifesto Rickie "Solid Gold" Clark will join me to commemorate the occasion. Clark was an early on-air personality at WTLC, and he also released the first rap record ever issued in Indianapolis: 1980's "Ladies Rights" on the Indy 5 label.
This week's edition of Cultural Manifesto may be the most significant program Kyle has ever produced. this episode features an hour of previously unheard music from the legendary Indianapolis band Merging Traffic. Plus commentary from two of the band's founding members: Kenny Simms and George Benn.
FoxD'Legnd joins Kyle Long for a conversation, and Kyle shares a preview of my recent interview with Lonnie Holley.
This week Kyle's guest is Ray Pierle. Ray has been independently recording and releasing folky psych rock music from his Southside Indianapolis home for over 40 years! Though Ray's work has generated relatively little interest here in his hometown, his albums are collected by psychedelic rock fans around the globe. this show features an hour of words and music with Ray, including rare and unreleased selections.
On this week's show Kyle talks with Rodney Stepp. Forty years after recording two LPs of unreleased music, Rodney's legendary Indianapolis funk supergroup Rapture has issued an excellent 45 single through the U.K. label Super Disco Edits. Rodney shares the story behind the record's release.
On this show Kyle's guest is the legendary Indianapolis soul singer Kenny Dodson. Kenny shares memories of performing with his teenage singing group The Sensations, and his current work performing with Jerry Cummings of Harold Melvin & The Bluenotes.
This week, DJ Kyle Long shares music and conversation with local musicians Keiana Whatley and Yadin Kol.
This week on #CulturalManifesto, DJ Kyle Long speaks with guitarist Rafiq Bhatia ahead of his November 8, 2018 show at Newfields.
This week's show is all about Indy's legendary soul label LAMP Records, including music and commentary from: Matthew Watson and Lester Johnson of Ebony Rhythm Band, Pam Tanner of The Pearls, and more!
Kyle Long speaks with Josephine and Henry of the legendary Indianapolis soul group The Sentimentals on this edition of Cultural Manifesto. Hear tracks from both sides of The Sentimentals' 1970 single on Knap Town Records, plus many other rare Indianapolis groups connected to The Sentimentals, including: People in the News, King James Version, The Diplomatics, and an unreleased track off a lost album project by Indy gospel greats the Blakey Specials. (Original broadcast, May 2, 2018)
Joining Kyle on this show is guitarist Steve Weakley, a founding member of the legendary Indianapolis band Funk Inc. Steve dropa a lot of knowledge about the history of jazz guitar in Indianapolis. I definitely recommend all soul music and jazz fans to check this episode out.
If you're a fan of 21st Century Indiana electronic dance music/hip-hop, check out this week's Cultural Manifesto. Kyle talks with DJs/producers Action Jackson and Lemi Vice. Jackson is also the cofounder of Rad Summer Records, and we'll be discussing the label's history and spinning some tunes.
This week features an excerpt of Kyle's recent interview with Brian Wilson. Brian brings his "Greatest Hits Live" tour to the Palladium on November 17. Kyle also shares music from some of the artists performing this weekend at Bloomington's Lotus Fest, including music from: Anandi Bhattacharya, Jupiter and Okwess, Rio Mira, Orquesta El Macabeo, and Kaumakaiwa Kanaka'ole.
On this episode of Cultural Manifesto, C. Niambi Steele of the legendary Stax Records group 24-Carat Black talks with Kyle.
This week's show is all about Indy Jazz Fest, and Kyle shares one of his all-time favorite Indianapolis records: The Baron Von Ohlen Quartet's 1973 release on Stan Kenton's Creative World label. Pianist Steve Allee joins Kyle in studio, and he shares his memories of creating the unique double keyboard sound he and Claude Sifferlen developed. Also, music and words with Anat Cohen, and Harold Lopez-Nussa.
On this episode of Cultural Manifesto John Oates of Hall and Oates joins Kyle Long for a tribute to one of Kyle and John's mutual heroes: the late blues musician Mississippi John Hurt!
This week Kyle's guests are composer/clarinetist Eric Salazar and soul singer/songwriter Damon Karl.
Kyle and guest Oreo Jones talk about the upcoming Chreece Indy Hip Hop Festival happening this Saturday in Fountain Square.
Saxophonist Amanda Gardier shares music off her excellent new album Empathy. Also, Sunny Jain of the Brooklyn based bhangra brass band Red Baraat spin a couple tunes from the band in advance of their performance Saturday, August 18, 2018 at the Indianapolis Museum of Art's amphitheater.
Encore broadcast of: DJ Kyle Long shares his full interview with Indy jazz legend Phil Ranelin about playing with Freddie Hubbard, Wes Montgomery and more.
Kyle talks with Indianapolis rapper Skypp. His new album "Tenth" was inspired by his time growing up on the Eastside of Indianapolis.
Kyle Long talks with Alma Afrobeat ahead of their show at pioneerindy on Friday, July 20, 2018.
In collaboration with Smithsonian Folkways Kyle presents a special two part episode of Cultural Manifesto featuring the words and music of American folk music legend Barbara Dane. Bob Dylan on Barbara Dane, "The world needs more people like Barbara, someone who is willing to follow her conscience. She is, if the term must be used, a hero."
In collaboration with Smithsonian Folkways Kyle presents a special two part episode of Cultural Manifesto featuring the words and music of American folk music legend Barbara Dane. Bob Dylan on Barbara Dane, "The world needs more people like Barbara, someone who is willing to follow her conscience. She is, if the term must be used, a hero."
Joining Kyle on this episode is Rob Dixon. Kyle and Rob discuss his new album "Coast to Crossroads."
On this episode of Cultural Manifesto Kyle Long's guest is jazz icon Herbie Hancock. Kyle also introduces a new segment focusing on an innovative artist residency program called City State. This edition of the segment features City State founder/director Michael Kaufmann.
On this show Kyle's guest is the amazing Kate Lamont. And we spin tracks from Mab Lab, Blueprintmusic, and Kate's fantastic new album 'What Happens Next is Everything'.
Many thanks to Kyro the Artist for coming through WFYI to talk about his excellent album Black Child.
Kyle speaks with Tom Hensley of the Indianapolis psychedelic band Masters of Deceit. Tom shared a few unreleased Masters of Deceit tracks from 1967/1968.
On this episode of Cultural Manifesto, C. Niambi Steele of the legendary Stax Records group 24-Carat Black talks with Kyle.
Kyle Long speaks with three Indy musicians who helped shape hip-hop on a local and national level: Reggie Griffin, Rickie Clark, and Grover Wilcher. (Originally aired January 24, 2018)
Kyle speaks with author Tamara Winfrey Harris, keynote speaker for the Let's Eat conference, at Central Library. Also, a conversation with original Amnesty member Rafael Barnes, and 700 West producer Moe Whittemore. Finally, a preview of Kyle's upcoming interview with James Davis, founder and lead singer of the legendary Indianapolis soul group The Vanguards.
I'm psyched to feature Josephine and Henry of the legendary Indianapolis soul group the The Sentimentals on thiss edition of Cultural Manifesto. I'll The spinning both sides of The Sentimentals' 1970 single on Knap Town Records, Plus many other rare Indianapolis groups connected to The Sentimentals, including: People in the News, King James Version, The Diplomatics, and an unreleased track off a lost album project by Indy gospel greats the Blakey Specials.
This week on Cultural Manifesto my guest will be the extraordinary guitarist/composer Rafiq Bhatia. Rafiq is probably best known as a member of Son Lux, but he has an extraordinary new solo disc titled Breaking English. A recent New York Times piece described Rafiq as one of the "most intriguing figures in music today." On Breaking English Rafiq draws from a wide palette of sounds, including electronic music, jazz, and South Indian Carnatic music.
This week Kyle talks with poet Too Black, one of the organizers of the Let's Eat artists development conference at Central Library. Plus, a farewell to Indianapolis jazz legend Clifford Ratliff as he heads to the east coast.
This week Kyle Long presents and hour of music and conversation with jazz guitarist Charlie Ballantine. His new album "Life is Brief" features 12 jazz arrangements of BobDylan songs.
This week on Cultural Manifesto DJKyleLong talks with Pavel Polanco Safadit about his new album "Rush Hour." Plus, an excerpt of TheJazzKitchen's Jazz 101 series featuring Rob Dixon!
DJ Kyle Long shares his full interview with Indy jazz legend Phil Ranelin about playing with Freddie Hubbard, Wes Montgomery and more.
On this episode of CulturalManifesto, Kyle Long discusses the murder of Brazilian politician/activist #MarielleFranco with Ana Carolina Feldenheimer, a professor from the State University of Rio de Janeiro. Plus jazz legend Billy Cobham.
This week on Cultural Manifesto, Kurt Austin, vocalist for hardcore bands including Risen and Birthright, and founder of the long running vegan, straight edge, hardcore label Catalyst Records.
This week on CulturalManifesto, DJKyleLong talks with Indy Jazz legend Phil Ranelin; Jimmy Carter of blindboys of Alabama; and Matt Aull, founder of the experimental cassette label Loathed Sound Department.
Kyle speaks with Jean-Paul Weaver and Kim Milfort, organizers of The Dreaming, a benefit for solar power in Haiti. Also, a conversation with Jenny Bhupatkar of Bollywood Beats Indy, and the singer/songwriter, and guitarist Raul Midon.
DJ Kyle Long talks with Marty Green and Paul Symons of BYBYE about their new album, "Metamorphasize." The group is celebrating the release with a show at HI-FI Indy this Friday. Listen to a track from the new album at http://bit.ly/2nZNqDU.
A look at some of the artists participating in this year's Art & Soul performance series at the Artsgarden. Also, Artur Silva speaks about Carnaval Brazil at The Jazz Kitchen and a preview of Kyle's recent interview with C Niambi Steele of the legendary Stax Records' band 24 Carat Black.
Kyle speaks with Megan Simonton and Joshua Allen of "Village Voices: Notes from the Griot". Plus music from Bashiri Asad and Jared Michael & Premium Blend.
Kyle Long speaks with three Indy musicians who helped shape hip-hop on a local and national level: Reggie Griffin, Rickie Clark, and Grover Wilcher.
Kyle speaks with Enrique Chi of the band Making Movies. This episode features some tracks off their new EP 'You Are Another Me' featuring innovative covers of Los Tigres Del Norte, Manu Chao, and a psychedelic son version of Bob Marley's "Redemption Song".
Kyle speaks with Sutiweyu Sandoval, an electronic music producer who releases work under the name Broso. Find out how Sutiweyu is using hip-hop and electronic dance music to help preserve the Garifuna culture of his Central American heritage.
Kyle looks back at some of his favorite interviews and music from 2017. Plus, a preview of the title track from Hanna Benn's brilliant debut EP Divide.
Kyle Long shares music and words from Indiana songwriter/composer/guitarist/vocalist/educator Tyron Cooper. Also, Kyle pays tribute to Indianapolis jazz legend "Mad" Harold Caldwell.
DJ Kyle Long introduces a new segment called Hip-Hop DNA, examining the Indianapolis roots of famous hip-hiop songs and beats. Plus, a conversation with Indiana University Jacobs School of Music professor and Latin percussion maestro, Michael Spiro.
Kyle speaks with Armando Perez of the Chicago-based Afrojam Funkbeat band ¡ESSO!. ¡ESSO!'s music mixes hip-hop, salsa, afrobeat, cumbia, and house with a message of unity and social justice.
Kyle Long speaks with Rafael Barnes, an original member of the legendary Indianapolis funk band Amnesty.
The voices and music of America's indigenous communities. Kyle spins tracks off the incredible indigenous folk/rock comp Native North America Vol. 1, also tracks from A Tribe Called Red, plus an interview with Crow Nation hip-hop artist Supaman.
DJ Kyle Long catches up with Cyrus Youngman and plays tracks off of his upcoming Cyrus Youngman and the Kingfishers album titled "Trip To Try."
Kyle Long speak with Indianapolis music legend Sid UncleJamz Johnson about his work as a musician, manager, and songwriter.
A special pledge drive edition of a Cultural Manifesto with an hour of music and words with David Crosby.
Kyle speaks with Indiana R&B legend Lonnie Lester, also a conversation with Ariana Beedie of FAF Collective, who will share her thoughts on the aborted Rock Against Racism festival.
Kyle will speak with the mad scientist of Indiana music, Moe Whittemore, for an hour of words and music from 700 West. This episode features some rare soul and funk discs Moe recorded from bands like Little Murray and The Mantics, Funk St. Workshop, and more.
A conversation with The Knot Brothers, plus a preview of Kyle's interview with funk legend Paul Thomas of Circle City Band.
Kyle Long previews Bloomington Lotus World Music & Arts Festival. Also, a look back at the case of Michael Taylor, an Indianapolis resident who was shot while handcuffed in an Indianapolis Police Department patrol car 30 years ago. John Loflin, from the group Reggaenomix, speaks about the song he wrote about the event.
Kyle speaks with Cuban-born jazz drummer Ingacio Berroa. He speaks about his work in Cuba with artists like Felipe Dulzaides, Silvio Rodriguez, Emiliano Salvador and Grupo de Experimentacion Sonora del ICAIC. Also, a recent interview with electronic music producer Taylor McFerrin.
Kyle speaks with Philly-born trumpet maestro, and 2017 Indy Jazz Fest artist Randy Brecker. Randy and his late brother Michael have increadible roots in Indiana music, and Kyle digs deep into that history.
Kyle Long speaks with Sarah Grain from Sarah Grain & The Billions of Stars as she share's and talks about their new album "Something Wild".
Kyle Long speaks with one of Indianapolis' earliest, and most interesting punk bands: The Last Four Digits. We'll be talking about the early years of punk rock in Indianapolis, and the new anthology of their work on TimeChange Records: "Don't Move - Essential Synth/Wave From the American Rust Belt (1980-1982)".
A special Chreece edition of Cultural Manifesto featuring Chreece 3 performers Flaco, and Bates.
Kyle speaks about Selena and Velvet Underground with the phenomenal vocalist/songwriter Nina Diaz. Nina started performing at age thirteen in San Antonio, Texas with the punk band Girl In A Coma.
DJ Kyle Long speaks with drummer Ian Chang of Son Lux. His debut solo album, "Spiritual Leader," was created using new music technology called Sensory Percussion.
DJ Kyle Long speaks with R&B legend and Indy native, Babyface! Hear the two discuss the Indianapolis music scene of the 70s, and hear some unreleased Babyface recordings that even he had no idea existed.
Kyle speaks with Nick and Joel Tucker of The Tucker Brothers. They'll be sharing tracks off their new album 'Writing Prompts'.
Kyle speaks with Tom Hensley of the legendary Indianapolis psychedelic band Masters of Deceit. Tom shared a handful of amazing unreleased tracks from 1967/1968.
Kyle speaks with the Indianapolis based bharatanatyam dancer Jwala Rejimon. Jwala will be performing Sri Rama Charitham with live orchestral accompaniment on July 16th at Westfield High School Auditorium, presented by Nrityapriya Fine Arts.
Kyle speaks with acclaimed Indianapolis electronic music producer Adam Jay. Adam has created well over 100 recordings in the techno genre, but over the last couple years he's been exploring the sounds of electro music. We'll be listening to tracks from Adam's fantastic new electro LP Maxia Zeta, and discussing his roots in the Indianapolis electronic music scene.
Kyle speaks with Indianapolis hip-hop duo, Mandog and Diop. They have a new EP titled Flow Flexin.
Host Kyle Long sits down with both UK grime producer Mr. Mitch, and the legendary composer/jazz musician David Amram.
Kyle speaks with the amazing Ugandan-born musician, singer and composer Samite, who will explain how his time living in an East African refugee camp influenced the development of his music.
An interview Kyle Long recorded with the legendary jazz vibraphonist Gary Burton. Earlier this year Burton ended his incredible career in music with a final farewell performance at The Jazz Kitchen. Kyle had the honor to speak with Burton shortly before he took the stage for his last performance.
Kyle Long sits down with Ryan Taylor and Jared Thompson of the Indianapolis Jazz Quartet: Premium Blend, as they discuss their new excellent album "The Road".
A conversation with Indianapolis hip-hop artist, Jarett Michael and his new release "What a Year", Also, an excerpt of my interview with Jasper "Mississippi" Travis, aka The Brush Master.
Richard Edwards, former member of Margot & the Nuclear So and So's, Join's Kyle Long in studio to share music from his brilliant new LP 'Lemon Cotton Candy Sunset'.
Kyle Long asks Brian Wilson, of The Beach Boys, a bunch of weird rapid-fire questions about The Four Freshmen, Martin Denny and Julius Wechter.
The second part of my interview with Charles Lloyd on 90.1 WFYI. Kyle Long plays a couple rarities from The Beach Boys, along with Charles Lloyd's extended commentary on his collaborations with the band.
"The Lion of Zimbabwe" Thomas Mapfumo, Palestinian oud maestro Simon Shaheen, and the brilliant Indianapolis new music collective Forward Motion. Plus a preview of my upcoming interview with Richard Edwards of Margot and The Nuclear So and So's.
Gil Scott-Heron was born on April 1, 1949. Cultural Manifesto host, DJ Kyle Long, plays a full hour of the author, songwriter and music pioneer Gil Scott-Heron's music.
Words and music from Jazz guitarist Charlie Hunter about collaborating with artists from Rob Dixon to Frank Ocean, and we talked about Indianapolis guitar masters like Scrapper Blackwell and Steven Weakley. Also, hits like "Creole" with Mos Def, and "Spanish Joint" off D'Angelo's Voodoo LP.
Joining Kyle on this episode, special guest sitar player and composer Anoushka Shankar, who discusses her music. She is the daughter of Ravi Shankar.
This show is all about ContraBanned #MusicUnites, which is a South by Southwest showcase featuring music from the countries targeted in Donald Trump's executive order travel ban. I'll be speaking with Tristra Newyear Yeager of the music PR firm Rock Paper Scissors, a co-sponsor of ContraBanned. I'll also talk with two musicians performing at ContraBanned: Dena El Saffar of Salaam, and Bassel Almadani of Bassel & The Supernaturals. Plus music from Yussef Kamaal, Ash Koosha, and Mohsen Namjoo.
This week my guest will be Wu Man, a virtuoso on the pipa, a traditional Chinese Instrument that's roughly 2,000 years old. We will be discussing her work with Philip Glass, and her experiments playing the pipa the wah wah and distortion pedals.
Part one of a special two part episode featuring Michael Kaufmann and Stuart Hyatt of Sound Expeditions. Stuart and Michael discuss their work sound-mapping Indianapolis.
Artist Artur Silva share's a selection of Brazilian tunes from Tim Maia to Criolo. In the second half of the broadcast musician and Irvington Vinyl owner Rick Wilkerson will spin some early Indiana punk rock to commemorate a new exhibit of late '70s/early '80s punk rock posters opening First Friday, March 3rd at the Circle City Industrial Complex.
Lupe Pimentel of the Indiana Undocumented Youth Alliance talks about the A Day Without Immigrants march in Indy. Kyle will talk with Helado Negro about his song "Young, Latin & Proud". Visual artist Beatriz Vasquez will talk about the meaning behind Los Tigres Del Norte's "Somos Mas Americanos". And Rosane Zelmanovitz will share info about the annual Indy feijoada dinner for Partners of the Americas and spin some Brazilian classics from Ney Matogrossi, Elza Soares & more.
"Music knows no boundaries, borders, or bans. No law or wall can suppress the beauty and power of song." - Rafiq Bhatia of Son Lux. This show is a playlist created by Son Lux. You'll hear music from Syria, Iraq, Iran, Sudan, Yemen, Somalia, Libya, Pakistan and more. Including selections from Abida Parveen, A-WA, Alsarah, K'Naan, Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, Fatima Al Qadiri, Ash Koosha, Heems, Swet Shop Boys, Rafiq Bhatia, Omar Souleyman and many others.
"Music knows no boundaries, borders, or bans. No law or wall can suppress the beauty and power of song." - Rafiq Bhatia of Son Lux. This show is a playlist created by Son Lux. You'll hear music from Syria, Iraq, Iran, Sudan, Yemen, Somalia, Libya, Pakistan and more. Including selections from Abida Parveen, A-WA, Alsarah, K'Naan, Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, Fatima Al Qadiri, Ash Koosha, Heems, Swet Shop Boys, Rafiq Bhatia, Omar Souleyman and many others.
DJ Kyle Long talks with Art Adams and Mike Strauss of The Art Adams Band. Art is a member of the Rockabilly Hall of Fame and tonight he'll be talking about his Memphis Dream box set, a collection of music he recorded at the legendary Sun Records in 2016.
Guest, Fre$co of the New Wave Collective, who has put down some excellent verses on tracks like "blaqu LVE" and "Topic of Discussion".
Kyle looks back at interviews that he's done with the three of the pioneers of Indiana psychedelic music: Producer Moe Whittemore who founded 700 West records and recorded and released the self-titled debut LP from Beech Grove's Zerfas. The album has been described as the "Sgt. Pepper of the Midwest."; Lester Johnson who co-founded the psychedelic soul group Ebony Rhythm Band.; Ron Matelic of Sir Winston and the Commons and Anonymous. In 1966 Sir Winston and the Commons released one of the first Indiana psychedelic records "Not the Spirit of India.".
In this episode we're looking back at some of the best local and international releases of 2016, featuring music and words from A-WA, Helado Negro, Sirius Blvck, Clint Breeze, Sedcairn Archives, Oreo Jones and Moses Sumney.