You'll Hear It

Delve into the genius of Keith Jarrett's Köln Concert, the best-selling solo piano album ever. Discover why it reshaped musical landscapes with its cinematic vibe and genre-blurring sounds. Listen as hosts dissect Jarrett’s unique improvisation, piano flaws, and the concert's captivating atmosphere. Explore the album’s influences from gospel to rock and how it became a cultural phenomenon. They even discuss its unexpected accessibility and lasting impact on piano music, making it a must-listen!

Chris Molanphy, a chart historian and producer of the Hit Parade podcast, dives deep into Stevie Wonder's iconic album, exploring its unprecedented success. He illustrates how it produced four major hit singles and even influenced later tracks by Coolio and Will Smith. The conversation highlights the album's lush LA sound, infectious grooves, and musical complexities that resonate with jazz musicians. From the joyful notes of "Sir Duke" to the Latin vibes of "Another Star," this discussion unveils the genius behind its chart history and lasting impact.

Delve into the adventurous world of Charles Mingus's iconic record, where gospel meets bebop in a dazzling fusion of sound. The hosts explore Mingus's emotional tribute to jazz legends and his powerful political protest through music. Discover the intricate arrangements and storytelling that make every track a unique experience. An intriguing discussion on Mingus's relationship with Duke Ellington and the album's rich legacy reveals how this monumental work still resonates today.

Discover the transformative journey of Nina Simone as she evolves from a classical pianist to a groundbreaking artist. Delve into her live performance at Town Hall, featuring a surprise rhythm section she met just moments before taking the stage. Explore her innovative arrangements, blending classical, jazz, folk, and gospel influences. The hosts dissect standout tracks, highlighting spontaneous creativity and emotional depth. With discussions on audio quirks and accessibility, this episode illuminates Nina's unique musical legacy.

Dive into the musical genius behind Michael Jackson's groundbreaking album! Discover how Quincy Jones and MJ aimed to create a hit with every track. From the infectious ad-libs in 'Wanna Be Startin' Somethin'' to the cultural phenomenon of 'Thriller,' every song has a story. Hear how 'Beat It' broke genre barriers and why 'Billie Jean' became a pop milestone. Uncover the emotional depths of 'The Lady in My Life' and the marketing brilliance that amplified the album's legacy. This is a fresh take on a timeless classic!

The hosts pay tribute to D'Angelo by exploring the innovative sounds of his album, Voodoo. They dive into Questlove's unique drumming style and Pino Palladino's bass work, which define the album's groove. Insights on the creative process reveal how collaboration with musicians like Roy Hargrove shaped the stunning arrangements. The discussion highlights Voodoo's departure from 90s R&B norms, its deep soulful influences, and the cultural impact of tracks like 'Untitled.' Personal favorites and memories round out this heartfelt exploration.

Diallo Riddle, co-host of One Song and a talented writer/producer, dives deep into the intersection of jazz and hip hop. He discusses how iconic samples, like Lou Donaldson's drum grooves, shaped major hip hop tracks. The conversation covers the nuances between sampling and interpolation, reveals why some jazz musicians remain unpaid, and celebrates how sampling introduces listeners to lesser-known jazz gems. Riddle also highlights how hip hop has revived the careers of jazz legends, illustrating its profound impact on musical evolution.

Explore the revolutionary sound of Roy Hargrove's Hard Groove, which blended jazz with R&B and hip-hop elements. The hosts dive into Hargrove's connections with artists like D'Angelo and Erykah Badu, highlighting their collaborative magic. Discover standout tracks, including the exhilarating "Pastor T" and the groove-driven opener. They also discuss production nuances and the album's cultural impact. With critical insights and personal anecdotes, this conversation redefines the essence of jazz in the 21st century.

Dive into the heart of Joni Mitchell’s Blue, an album that revolutionized folk and jazz with its confessional lyrical depth and unique musical structure. Explore the mesmerizing melodies of tracks like 'All I Want' and the emotional storytelling in 'River.' Discover the fascinating background of songs like 'Little Green' and 'California,' and how Joni’s innovative use of the dulcimer shaped the album's texture. With insights on harmonics and chord progressions, this discussion reveals why Blue continues to inspire generations of musicians.

Dive into the depths of John Coltrane's A Love Supreme, hailed by some as the greatest album of the 20th century. The hosts explore its unique one-chord structures, transformative melodies, and the breathtaking improvisational talents of the quartet. Discover the spiritual essence of tracks like 'Acknowledgement' and 'Psalm,' and hear how Coltrane's work resonates culturally. The thrilling debate over its place in the jazz canon compared to Kind of Blue offers fresh perspectives on this musical masterpiece.