Influences

Lauren Meccia

South Carolina–born Lauren Meccia is a saxophonist, composer, and University of South Carolina professor known for her versatility in jazz, classical, and contemporary music.  Visit southcarolinapublicradio.org/rapponjazz [https://www.southcarolinapublicradio.org/show/rapp-on-jazz] for full transcripts.

Ann Caldwell

Ann Caldwell, born in Denmark, South Carolina, is known as Charleston’s “First Lady of Jazz.” With her powerful voice, elegant phrasing, and deep commitment to preserving jazz traditions, Caldwell has become a beloved figure in the Charleston music scene. Visit southcarolinapublicradio.org/rapponjazz [https://www.southcarolinapublicradio.org/show/rapp-on-jazz] for full transcripts.

James 'Blood' Ulmer

James “Blood” Ulmer was born in St. Matthews, South Carolina, and is a visionary guitarist known for his daring blend of avant-garde jazz, blues, and free improvisation. His nickname, “Blood,” comes from his stinging, cutting guitar style—raw, electric, and impossible to ignore. Visit southcarolinapublicradio.org/rapponjazz [https://www.southcarolinapublicradio.org/show/rapp-on-jazz] for full transcripts.

Alphonse Mouzon

Charleston-born Alphonse Mouzon was a groundbreaking drummer and a pioneer of jazz fusion. Known for his explosive energy, technical mastery, and rhythmic creativity, Mouzon helped redefine what jazz percussion could be.  Visit southcarolinapublicradio.org/rapponjazz [https://www.southcarolinapublicradio.org/show/rapp-on-jazz] for full transcripts.

Influences

Every musician is the sum of the voices they’ve listened to, and my sound is shaped by the artists who came before me.  Visit southcarolinapublicradio.org/rapponjazz [https://www.southcarolinapublicradio.org/show/rapp-on-jazz] for full transcripts.