
Broken Record with Rick Rubin, Malcolm Gladwell, Bruce Headlam and Justin Richmond
Ron Carter/Don Was
Oct 17, 2024
In this conversation, Ron Carter, a legendary bassist and key figure of the Second Great Miles Davis Quintet, opens up about his rich musical journey, starting from his classical roots in Detroit to his influential role in jazz. Joined by Don Was, President of Blue Note Records, they delve into the challenges of transitioning between musical styles and the importance of community in a musician’s life. Ron shares insights on the bass’s pivotal role in collaboration and reflects on the legacy of jazz and its iconic studios, all while honoring the interconnectedness of musicians.
01:23:29
Episode guests
AI Summary
AI Chapters
Episode notes
Podcast summary created with Snipd AI
Quick takeaways
- Ron Carter's transition from classical cello to bass, driven by a desire for more musical opportunities, shaped his influential career in jazz.
- The rich cultural and social dynamics of Detroit fostered a vibrant music scene, significantly contributing to the birth of jazz and Motown.
Deep dives
Ron Carter's Musical Journey
Ron Carter's journey into music began in an all-black elementary school in Detroit, where he initially chose the cello. After realizing he could find more opportunities as a bassist, he sold his cello and transitioned to playing the bass, ultimately earning a full scholarship to the Eastman School of Music. During his time at Eastman, he faced challenges as one of the few African American students, balancing his orchestral ambitions with budding jazz interests. Carter's experiences navigating both classical and jazz music have shaped his diverse career, propelling him into collaboration with iconic figures in the music world.
Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts
Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.