MusiConversations on Jazz with Najee, Host Tom Schuman - Season 1 Episode 4 - Originally Aired Oct 2007

12/30/24 • 52 min

Our MusiConversation with Najee, was originally recorded over the phone in 2007 and aired October 2007.

The episode features Tom Schuman interviewing jazz saxophonist Najee, celebrating his illustrious career and discussing his latest album, "Rising Sun". Here’s a summary of the key highlights:

Introduction:

Tom introduces Najee as a leading figure in contemporary jazz, renowned for hits like "Najee’s Theme" and his interpretations of songs such as Anita Baker’s "Sweet Love".
They reflect on Najee’s contributions to jazz and R&B over a career spanning more than 20 years.

Discussion of "Rising Sun":

Tom praises the album as a masterpiece, complimenting Najee’s collaboration with keyboardists like Chris "Big Dog" Davis, James Lloyd, and Phil Davis.
The standout track, "Clarity", showcases Najee’s ability to translate guitar-centric melodies into compelling saxophone arrangements.

Najee’s Career Journey:

Najee recalls starting with the clarinet before transitioning to the saxophone in junior high due to limited school resources.
He credits the Jazz Mobile program, where he studied with jazz legends like Jimmy Heath and Frank Foster, with shaping his musical foundation.
Early influences included Duke Ellington, Miles Davis, and Dave Brubeck, thanks to his mother’s love for jazz.

Collaborations and Legacy:

Najee reflects on working with R&B and jazz icons, including Chaka Khan, Prince, and Stanley Clarke. His three years with Prince was both exhilarating and challenging, requiring intense commitment.
He shares anecdotes about the Stevie Wonder tribute album "Najee Plays Songs from the Key of Life", which featured original musicians from Stevie’s recordings.

Saxophone and Soprano Evolution:

While initially resistant to the soprano saxophone, Najee grew to appreciate it, inspired by Wayne Shorter’s emotional playing.
His mastery of multiple instruments, including flute and alto sax, adds versatility to his work.

Future Projects and Live Performances:

Najee expresses a desire to release a fully acoustic album, highlighting his love for organic sounds like upright bass and real piano.
He emphasizes the importance of live interaction in jazz, moving away from drum machines to collaborate with live musicians.

Personal and Professional Reflections:

Najee discusses growing up in a musically rich environment in New York and the role of his family, especially his brother Farid, who now manages his business.

Our MusiConversation with Najee, was originally recorded over the phone in 2007 and aired October 2007.

The episode features Tom Schuman interviewing jazz saxophonist Najee, celebrating his illustrious career and discussing his latest album, "Rising Sun". Here’s a summary of the key highlights:

Introduction:

Tom introduces Najee as a leading figure in contemporary jazz, renowned for hits like "Najee’s Theme" and his interpretations of songs such as Anita Baker’s "Sweet Love".
They reflect on Najee’s contributions to jazz and R&B over a career spanning more than 20 years.

Discussion of "Rising Sun":

Tom praises the album as a masterpiece, complimenting Najee’s collaboration with keyboardists like Chris "Big Dog" Davis, James Lloyd, and Phil Davis.
The standout track, "Clarity", showcases Najee’s ability to translate guitar-centric melodies into compelling saxophone arrangements.

Najee’s Career Journey:

Najee recalls starting with the clarinet before transitioning to the saxophone in junior high due to limited school resources.
He credits the Jazz Mobile program, where he studied with jazz legends like Jimmy Heath and Frank Foster, with shaping his musical foundation.
Early influences included Duke Ellington, Miles Davis, and Dave Brubeck, thanks to his mother’s love for jazz.

Collaborations and Legacy:

Najee reflects on working with R&B and jazz icons, including Chaka Khan, Prince, and Stanley Clarke. His three years with Prince was both exhilarating and challenging, requiring intense commitment.
He shares anecdotes about the Stevie Wonder tribute album "Najee Plays Songs from the Key of Life", which featured original musicians from Stevie’s recordings.

Saxophone and Soprano Evolution:

While initially resistant to the soprano saxophone, Najee grew to appreciate it, inspired by Wayne Shorter’s emotional playing.
His mastery of multiple instruments, including flute and alto sax, adds versatility to his work.

Future Projects and Live Performances:

Najee expresses a desire to release a fully acoustic album, highlighting his love for organic sounds like upright bass and real piano.
He emphasizes the importance of live interaction in jazz, moving away from drum machines to collaborate with live musicians.

Personal and Professional Reflections:

Najee discusses growing up in a musically rich environment in New York and the role of his family, especially his brother Farid, who now manages his business.

Previous Episode

MusiConversations on Jazz with Steve Oliver, Host Tom Schuman - Season 1 Episode 3 - Originally Aired Oct 2007

Our MusiConversation with Steve Oliver, was originally recorded backstage before a show Steve opened for Spyro Gyra in 2007 and aired October 2007.

In this episode of MusiConversations on Jazz, Tom Schuman interviews jazz guitarist Steve Oliver backstage before a performance with Spyro Gyra. The conversation delves into Steve's career, creative process, and musical philosophy.

Collaborations and Productions:

Tom and Steve recount their collaborations on Steve’s albums "3D" and "Radiant", where Tom served as co-producer and keyboardist.
The duo is working on Steve's next project, emphasizing their shared passion for creative synergy.

Steve’s Musical Journey:

Self-taught musician: Steve describes how he learned music independently, supported by books like Mel Bay’s guitar manuals and experimenting with chord charts.
Early influences: Growing up in California’s East Bay, Steve immersed himself in diverse music, frequenting record stores like Rasputin Records and exploring genres like jazz, rock, and world music.

Signature Style:

Steve’s unique approach combines vocal sounds with guitar melodies, inspired by artists like George Benson and Al Jarreau but developed independently.
He discusses his creative process, which often involves recording spontaneous ideas on his guitar and voice.

Technical and Musical Innovations:

Steve introduces his collaboration with Carvin on a new nylon-string synthesizer guitar, the NS-1, which integrates acoustic and MIDI functionality for diverse soundscapes.
Use of looping devices and percussion instruments like cajons and djembes to create rich, layered performances.

Creative Philosophy:

Music as a universal language: Steve views his role as a "peace warrior," spreading love and positivity through his art.
Balancing instrumental and vocal tracks: He plans to release a fully vocal album blending pop, jazz, and world music influences.

Performance Insights:

Steve performs solo shows that stretch up to three hours, describing the experience as transcendent and deeply fulfilling.
He emphasizes the importance of sharing music’s emotional impact with audiences.

Future Projects:

Steve hints at his next album, "Dreaming Awake", featuring a mix of uplifting lyrics and percussion-driven world music elements.
He shares his excitement for expanding his international reach, with plans to tour in Europe, Japan, and Australia.

Next Episode

MusiConversations on Jazz with Cora Coleman, Host Tom Schuman - Season 1 Episode 5 - Originally Aired Oct 2007

This episode of MusiConversation on Jazz features Tom Schuman in conversation with Cora Coleman Dunham, a jazz and pop drummer best known for her work with Prince. The discussion spans Cora’s journey in music, her inspirations, and career milestones. Here are the highlights:

Introduction:

Tom introduces Cora, reflecting on their friendship that began during the making of "Schuman Nature" (2003).
Cora’s current role as Prince’s drummer is highlighted, including performing with him at major events like the Super Bowl.

Cora's Musical Journey:

Early Life:

Grew up in Houston and played multiple sports while excelling academically (she was valedictorian).
Began drumming in high school under band director William Portis, who was a father figure to many students.

Howard University:

Attended Howard to explore new experiences and studied under renowned drummer Grady Tate.
Persistence and dedication led to Grady mentoring her, even though he initially wasn’t taking freshman students.

Breakthrough Moments:

Meeting Tom Schuman:

Tom discovered Cora serendipitously through his wife, Yvonne, at an airport in Houston.
Cora later joined Tom's jazz trio for the "Schuman Nature" album.

Prince Connection:

Cora met Prince while performing with Frank McComb in LA. Prince was impressed by her drumming and gifted her a custom DW drum set.
She later joined Prince’s band, contributing to albums like "3121" and participating in iconic performances, including intimate shows and jam sessions with guest artists like Queen Latifah and Will.i.am.

Reflections on Musical Growth:

Creative Influence:

Credits mentors like Grady Tate for teaching confidence and relaxation, emphasizing that music is about joy and connection.

Playing with Legends:

Cora shares insights on playing with jazz and pop heavyweights, including Sheila E., Ricky Lawson, and Patrice Rushen.
Her adaptability and positivity allowed her to thrive in the male-dominated music industry.

Life with Prince:

Studio and Performance Dynamics:

Describes Prince’s collaborative and intuitive creative process during studio sessions.
Praises the freedom Prince gives his musicians, fostering a vibrant and expressive environment.

Memorable Moments:

Tom recounts seeing Cora perform with Prince at the Empire Ballroom in Las Vegas, describing it as an unforgettable, energetic show.

Looking Ahead:

Cora discusses her aspirations for the future, hinting at family life and continued musical growth.
She attributes her success to faith, hard work, and the support of her husband, Josh, who shares her musical journey.