Relative Rhythms | Where Music & Dance Meet cover image

Relative Rhythms | Where Music & Dance Meet

Lonnie McFadden

Aug 13, 2024
Lonnie McFadden is a talented trumpeter, tap dancer, and singer with deep roots in jazz. He shares fascinating insights into Kansas City's rich jazz history and how mentorship from his father shaped his artistic journey. The connection between tap dance and jazz is a highlight, as Lonnie discusses merging these two art forms. He recalls his adventures on international stages and reflects on creating a nightclub during the pandemic, emphasizing the emotional bond between artist and audience. Lonnie's passion for music and legacy shines through in this engaging conversation.
01:02:26

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Lonnie McFadden emphasizes the deep connection between tap dance and jazz, highlighting how both art forms enhance each performer's storytelling capabilities.
  • Through the opening of Lonnie's Reno Club, he demonstrates the importance of innovation and adaptability for artists in navigating the evolving music landscape.

Deep dives

Lonnie McFadden's Artistic Journey

Lonnie McFadden's journey into the arts began with tap dancing, inspired by his father, a professional tap dancer from the big band era. Initially, tap dancing was a playful activity for Lonnie and his brother, but it soon became a structured practice that instilled discipline at a young age. Despite enjoying tap dancing, Lonnie was influenced by peer pressure during his teenage years, leading him to pick up the trumpet and abandon tap for a time. His story illustrates the ebb and flow of musical pursuits, as he ultimately rediscovered tap dance and recognized its intrinsic link to his identity as a performer.

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