Time for another look at the long running theme of “jazz is dead” – this from 1973. Peter Levison’s views on its resurgence in the 1970s following the successful Newport Jazz Festival. He notes the renewed interest among younger audiences, evidenced by sold-out CTI All-Star concerts. Levison acknowledges the importance of integrating new talent alongside established figures to sustain jazz’s growth. Despite challenges, initiatives like educational programs and innovative performances aim to foster appreciation for this uniquely American art form. Levinson though did have a vested interest
Sounds: Supermarket Jazz
It’s fairly well-known that Creed’s production techniques were not universally liked. Creed himself knew that and was often quite dismissive of critics in general. I’ve often quoted Creed himself on this, as early as 1963 he said: These men[musicians], no longer concern themselves with critical limitations, imposed by journalists within the jazz fraternity. More and more of them are looking […]
Website Updates: Enhancing User Experience for CTProduced
The website ctproduced.com has undergone significant updates after a long period, now showcasing over 1.3 million impressions and 1,260 subscribers. Key changes include the removal of traditional categories and tags from individual posts, improved site navigation with advanced search, and enhanced subscription options. Future plans involve using subscriber feedback for upcoming content and exploring theme changes.
Exploring Nancy Wilson’s Jazz Profiles on NPR
While organizing my digital archive, which includes thousands of indexed books and magazines, – I’ve been trying to deal with 1,500 files in my downloads folder. It was good to find that the recordings of Nancy Wilson’s NPR show, Jazz Profiles, are available via both NPR and the Internet Archive, there are many really great shows.
Seen Online: 3D CTI Printing
Want to 3D printed CTI logo?
Apparently this is all you need!
Freddie Hubbard – Live in ’67
Freddie Hubbard has many live recordings, primarily from after 1968. Notably, Resonance Records has released a live set from 1967 at Blue Morocco featuring prominent musicians. The venue, now gone, was noted for its vibrant atmosphere. Hubbard’s live recordings are essential in understanding his musical evolution during this period.
In Lieu Of Flowers
Dave Anderson, a former CTI staffer and NYC saxophonist, releases his album “In Lieu of Flowers” on May 20, 2025. The album honors jazz legends and personal inspirations, featuring ten original compositions with a modern jazz quartet. Themes of memory and loss resonate throughout. The formal launch party is June 4th in Brooklyn, NY
Born Day: Ron Carter – The Early Years
For Maestro Carter’s birthday this year, I have an April 1964 article written by Don Heckman and published in Down Beat magazine’s April 9th, 1964 issue. Heckman was a longtime Down Beat contributor and Los Angeles Times jazz critic. Mr. Carter is more than generous with his time; he regularly holds Zoom calls that Reddit users would know as AMAs […]
Farewell Roy Ayers
Roy Ayers, a pivotal figure in jazz and a key contributor to the soul/funk music scene, passed away on March 4th after a prolonged illness. In my biographical sketch into his early career included collaborations with Herbie Mann and his earliest recordings. His legacy remains influential through iconic tracks like “Everybody Loves The Sunshine.”
More Playlists and Listening
Hey there! If you loved the Christmas mix, I’ve got more tunes lined up. I’m digging into Jack Teagarden’s work and his rare 1954 Christmas track. Plus, there’s a huge 5-hour Christmas mix from Radio FREE Crocket. If you want a break from holiday jams, check out the 17-hour “Lost & Found” jazz collection by DJ Jazzcat. Happy listening!
New On The FM Radio Archive
Here are five recent live sets from the FM Radio Archive. Included are performances by Art Pepper, Stanley Turrentine, Gábor Szabó, Grant Green, and the Modern Jazz Quartet, each with broadcast history.
Benny Golson – A Life In Music
Benny Golson passed on to the great bandstand in the sky on Saturday, September 21st; he was 95. I have not attempted to write my own obituary but have provided a gift link to the New York Times obituary below. I have, though, included some observational notes, as well as two recordings of Benny Goodman from an appearance he made […]
Grover Live Vol.2
Grover Washing, Jr. ‘live in 1998. This recording is released only in digital format (for now?). It really is a great set of GWJ classics. Lot’s of detail and streaming links etc.
Jazz Is Dead(Not!)
The belief that “jazz is dead” has been recurring since the 1920s, with notable instances like a 1967 Down Beat magazine cover misquoting guitarist Gabor Szabo. Despite such claims, jazz has proven resilient, surviving trends and criticisms. Historian Frank Kofsky and multiple jazz figures affirm its enduring relevance and vitality. The second in a series.
“Fresh Crates Daily” – Farewell Jeff Henry
I’m taking a short break in normal service to recognize a musical hero and personal friend who passed away in Houston, TX on Friday, May 10th, 2024. I encourage you to read on and, if nothing else, enjoy this mixtape just one of dozens that Jeff did.