MusiConversations on Jazz with Marion Meadows, Host Tom Schuman - Season 1 Episode 8 - Originally Aired Nov 2007

12/30/24 • 57 min

This episode of MusiConversations on Jazz features Host Tom Schuman interviewing jazz saxophonist Marion Meadows, exploring his career, influences, and artistic philosophy. Meadows reflects on his musical journey, his latest album "Dressed to Chill", and the broader jazz landscape.

Career and Artistic Journey

Early Musical Development:

Marion’s early days in Connecticut exposed him to diverse cultural and religious influences, shaping his spiritual and musical outlook.
After studying at Berklee College of Music, Marion explored avant-garde jazz, influenced by artists like Pharaoh Sanders and Ornette Coleman, before shifting to modal and melodic styles.
A pivotal moment occurred when jazz legend Grover Washington Jr. encouraged him to develop his unique sound and stop imitating others.

Grand Central Serendipity:

A chance encounter with composer Jay Chattaway while playing his soprano sax at Grand Central Station led to a collaboration with Bob James, marking a significant milestone in Marion’s career.

Latest Album: "Dressed to Chill"

This is Marion’s 10th solo album and showcases his melodic and lyrical approach to the soprano saxophone, emphasizing musicality over technical display.
Collaborator Michael Broening contributed to the album’s production, which includes haunting melodies and smooth jazz arrangements.

Musical Philosophy

Marion views the saxophone, particularly the soprano, as a voice for emotional expression, often comparing it to the human voice.
He aims to create music that resonates spiritually with both himself and his listeners, avoiding overly commercial influences in smooth jazz.
Advocates for an organic approach to smooth jazz, emphasizing authenticity over radio-driven trends.

Collaborations and Influences

Marion frequently collaborates with top musicians like Mel Brown and Freddie Fox and cites Grover Washington Jr., Jay Beckenstein, and other jazz legends as influences.
He appreciates the smooth jazz community for its close artist-fan interactions, which he describes as unique compared to other music genres.

Future Projects and Aspirations

Marion hints at incorporating his bass clarinet into future projects and experimenting with more organic elements in smooth jazz.

Closing Notes

Marion Meadows emphasizes the importance of staying true to one’s artistic vision while navigating the challenges of the music industry. His reflections on his journey and creative process offer inspiration for both listeners and fellow musicians.

Career and Artistic Journey

Early Musical Development:

Marion’s early days in Connecticut exposed him to diverse cultural and religious influences, shaping his spiritual and musical outlook.
After studying at Berklee College of Music, Marion explored avant-garde jazz, influenced by artists like Pharaoh Sanders and Ornette Coleman, before shifting to modal and melodic styles.
A pivotal moment occurred when jazz legend Grover Washington Jr. encouraged him to develop his unique sound and stop imitating others.

Grand Central Serendipity:

A chance encounter with composer Jay Chattaway while playing his soprano sax at Grand Central Station led to a collaboration with Bob James, marking a significant milestone in Marion’s career.

Latest Album: "Dressed to Chill"

This is Marion’s 10th solo album and showcases his melodic and lyrical approach to the soprano saxophone, emphasizing musicality over technical display.
Collaborator Michael Broening contributed to the album’s production, which includes haunting melodies and smooth jazz arrangements.

Musical Philosophy

Marion views the saxophone, particularly the soprano, as a voice for emotional expression, often comparing it to the human voice.
He aims to create music that resonates spiritually with both himself and his listeners, avoiding overly commercial influences in smooth jazz.
Advocates for an organic approach to smooth jazz, emphasizing authenticity over radio-driven trends.

Collaborations and Influences

Marion frequently collaborates with top musicians like Mel Brown and Freddie Fox and cites Grover Washington Jr., Jay Beckenstein, and other jazz legends as influences.
He appreciates the smooth jazz community for its close artist-fan interactions, which he describes as unique compared to other music genres.

Future Projects and Aspirations

Marion hints at incorporating his bass clarinet into future projects and experimenting with more organic elements in smooth jazz.

Closing Notes

Previous Episode

MusiConversations on Jazz with Michael Lington, Host Tom Schuman - Season 1 Episode 7 - Originally Aired Nov 2007

This episode of MusiConversations on Jazz features Host Tom Schuman interviewing jazz saxophonist Michael Lington at Michael's home in Hollywood. The conversation spans Michael's career, his creative processes, influences, and other ventures, providing an in-depth look at his journey as a musician.

Michael's Background and Career Journey:

Relocation and Lifestyle: Michael has been in the U.S. for 18 years, residing in Hollywood, where he balances a bustling touring schedule with a passion for music and cooking.
Musical Beginnings: Growing up in Copenhagen, Denmark, Michael was influenced by European jazz and musicians like Cannonball Adderley, Earl Bostick, and David Sanborn. His early exposure to live music at venues like Tivoli Gardens shaped his career.

Latest Album - "A Song for You":

Released on Rendezvous Records, the album features timeless tracks with orchestral arrangements by Randy Waldman.
The album includes classics like "All in Love is Fair," "Both Sides Now," and "She's Always a Woman."
Michael describes the recording process, blending live saxophone performances with orchestral layers. The production aimed to create a timeless, classic sound.

Musical Style and Influences:

Known for his lyrical and melodic alto saxophone playing, Michael emphasizes achieving a unique sound, which he believes he solidified in his album "Stay With Me".
He credits artists like Leon Russell, David Sanborn, and Cannonball Adderley as inspirations.

Other Ventures and Collaborations:

Michael has collaborated with top musicians like Vinnie Colaiuta, Brian Bromberg, and Randy Waldman.
He is also exploring entrepreneurial ventures, including his Michael Lington Classic Toro Cigars, with plans to launch a new line called Connoisseur.

Future Projects and Performances:

Michael is working on a new album with Brazilian influences in collaboration with Michael Sembello.
Upcoming performances include the Catalina Island Jazz Festival, cruises with Dave Koz and Friends, and a USO show at Guantanamo Bay.

Personal Reflections:

Michael shares the challenges of creating a unique musical identity, balancing artistic passion with industry demands, and the joy of performing live for appreciative audiences.
He reflects on his father’s influence, a saxophonist and master carpenter, who encouraged him to pursue music.

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MusiConversations on Jazz with Peter White, Host Tom Schuman - Season 1 Episode 9 - Originally Aired Dec 2007

This episode of MusiConversations on Jazz features Host Tom Schuman interviewing Peter White, renowned guitarist known for his signature nylon-string sound. Their engaging conversation, set in a small British pub in Los Angeles, highlights White's career, influences, and unique approach to music.

Peter White’s Musical Journey

Early Beginnings:

White began as a pianist, developing a foundation that later influenced his compositions. His father encouraged musical education, introducing a piano to the household when Peter was young.
Inspired by The Beatles, he transitioned to guitar, starting with an acoustic instrument and teaching himself by ear.

Career Evolution:

Initially hired as a keyboardist by Al Stewart, White's guitar playing emerged when Stewart needed a Spanish guitar sound for the track "On the Border". This marked the beginning of White's journey as a guitarist, particularly with nylon-string guitars.
A childhood accident involving his brother burning his electric guitar led him to embrace acoustic guitars —a blessing in disguise that defined his future sound.

Signature Style and Influences

White is best known for his gentle, melodic nylon-string guitar sound, which he describes as his musical "voice." His playing style evolved naturally and is central to his identity as an artist.
Influences include The Beatles, Jimi Hendrix, Eric Clapton, and Keith Emerson, shaping his appreciation for diverse musical genres.

Notable Collaborations and Achievements

White collaborated with Al Stewart on iconic albums like "Year of the Cat" and "Time Passages", which helped establish his career.
He has worked with artists like Basha, Rick Braun, and Jonathan Butler and performed with the Jazz Attack ensemble, sharing the stage with renowned musicians like Richard Elliott and Kirk Whalum.

Creative Process and Production

White shared insights into recording on the road, often utilizing portable setups like Pro Tools and M-Box to capture spontaneous performances in hotel rooms or backstage.
He emphasized the importance of emotion over technical perfection, believing the essence of music lies in the artist's personal touch.

Memorable Tracks and Themes

"Promenade": Described as his unofficial theme song, it reflects White’s personality—charming, soothing, and uplifting.
"For the Love of You": A personal favorite of White’s and a standout track on his album "Playing Favorites", featuring unique instrumentation like stand-up bass.

Current Projects and Reflections

White continues to perform worldwide, balancing studio work and live performances. His focus remains on delivering authentic, emotionally resonant music rather than chasing commercial success.
He expressed interest in exploring duo guitar projects and revisiting past ideas for future recordings.

Closing Notes

The episode celebrates Peter White's remarkable journey from a self-taught guitarist to a smooth jazz icon. It showcases his passion for music, the serendipitous moments that shaped his career, and his dedication to connecting with audiences through his unique sound. Tom Schuman praises White's artistry and friendship, wrapping up the conversation with mutual admiration.