Sunny Sumter on the musical "crossroads" of D.C Jazz Fest

Nasar Abadey and Supernova

Willard Jenkins chats with Nasar Abadey, leader of the group Supernova, ahead of their 2026 D.C. Jazz Fest appearance.

Pat MacDonald: Looking Back at “The Future’s So Bright”

Forty years ago this summer, singer songwriter Pat MacDonald released one of the defining pop songs of the 1980s: “The Future's So Bright, I Gotta Wear Shades.” Today Leo Sidran considers the song’s legacy.

Herbie Hancock on landing his pivotal gig with Donald Byrd

Long before Herbie Hancock became the musical giant he is today, there was a time when he too, like so many other musicians past and present, would pull all-nighters practicing for an especially crucial performance. In conversation recently with WBGO’s Pat Prescott, Hancock looked back on his formative years, landing the gig with Donald Byrd, and moving to New York City.

Jimmy Greene – Still Riding the Trane

Dave Popkin catches up with saxophonist Jimmy Greene at the Saratoga Jazz Festival.

The Sidran Chronicles-Volume 1: Ben Sidran on Jazz & Democracy

Leo and Ben Sidran reflect on 250 years of America, jazz being arguably one of America's greatest contributions to the world, and democracy both conceptually and in practice.