MusiConversations on Jazz

MusiConversations on Jazz - Schu-Memories by Tom Schuman on Jaco Pastorius - Season 1a Episode 7 - Originally Aired 2021

As an extension to MusiConversations on Jazz, this episode of the Schu-Memories series, Tom Schuman reflects on his encounter with the legendary bassist Jaco Pastorius and the personal struggles that shaped Jaco’s life and career. Influence of Weather Report and Jaco: * Tom shares his admiration for Weather Report, particularly the impact of Jaco Pastorius, whose talent elevated the band's rhythm and energy. * Jaco’s contributions to the band brought youthful brilliance and a wider audience. Meeting Jaco at Bradley’s Jazz Club: * In the late 1980s, Tom met Jaco at Bradley’s in New York City. * They bonded over their shared musical journeys, with Jaco recounting a humorous anecdote about being mistaken for Spyro Gyra by a cab driver. Jaco’s Struggles: * Jaco exhibited self-destructive behavior exacerbated by alcohol, leading to difficult moments during their interaction. * Tom expressed concern for Jaco’s well-being, even offering him a place to stay to help him recover. However, Jaco distanced himself from Tom after this conversation. Jaco’s Tragic End: * Jaco’s life was cut short in 1987 after an altercation with a bouncer, resulting in his untimely death at 35. * Tom reflects on Jaco’s immense talent and how his music continues to inspire, despite his troubled life.

MusiConversations on Jazz - Schu-Memories by Tom Schuman on Miles Davis - Season 1a Episode 6 - Originally Aired 2021

As an extension to MusiConversations on Jazz, this episode of the Schu-Memories series, Tom Schuman shares his memorable encounter with jazz legend Miles Davis during a 1981 concert at Red Rocks Amphitheater in Colorado. The Setting: * Spyro Gyra shared the stage with Miles Davis, who had just released "The Man with the Horn" album. * Miles’ ensemble featured Mike Stern, Al Foster, Marcus Miller, and saxophonist Bill Evans. Meeting Miles Davis: * After the soundcheck, Tom nervously approached Miles at his dressing room. * Despite Miles’ reputation for being moody, he was welcoming, thanked Tom for a fruit basket Spyro Gyra had sent, and invited him in to meet his band. * Tom humorously pretended to be introduced to band members he already knew, cherishing the moment orchestrated by Miles. Memorable Performance: * Miles opened the concert with "Backseat Betty" in a dramatic fashion: lighting and flicking away a cigarette as a signal to start the powerful, guitar-driven song. * Due to scheduling, Miles performed first, allowing Spyro Gyra to humorously claim, “Miles Davis opened for us.” Reflections: * Tom fondly recalls Miles’ congenial demeanor and the opportunity to interact with one of the greatest figures in jazz history. * He admired the impeccable musicianship of Miles’ band and the unforgettable impact of their performance.

MusiConversations on Jazz - Schu-Memories by Tom Schuman on Dizzy Gillespie - Season 1a Episode 5 - Originally Aired 2021

As an extension to MusiConversations on Jazz, this episode of the Schu-Memories series, Tom Schuman recounts a memorable experience with jazz legend Dizzy Gillespie during the 1982 Newport Jazz Festival in Madurao, Japan. The Setting * Spyro Gyra participated in a George Wein production of the Newport Jazz Festival near Mount Fuji. * The festival brought together legendary artists such as Dizzy Gillespie, Freddie Hubbard, Lee Ritenour, Gil Evans, and Tanya Maria. * The remote festival location and limited nightlife turned musicians' hotel rooms into gathering spots, fostering camaraderie. The Song “Dizzy” * Tom had just completed the *Carnaval* album with Spyro Gyra and carried a cassette mix of the track “Dizzy,” a tribute to Dizzy Gillespie, co-written with drummer Eli Konicoff. * The funky tune featured contributions from Randy Brecker, Hiram Bullock, and other talented musicians. Playing the Track for Dizzy * On the bus ride to the festival, Tom approached Dizzy and asked if he’d like to hear the song dedicated to him. * Dizzy enthusiastically listened to the track on a Sony Walkman, dancing and expressing his approval. * After hearing it, Dizzy praised the song and Randy Brecker's trumpet but humorously asked why he wasn’t invited to play on it, leaving Tom both flattered and regretful. Reflection * The experience of receiving Dizzy’s approval on a song written in his honor was a career highlight for Tom. * Despite missing the chance to collaborate, Tom cherished the opportunity to share the moment with such a legendary figure.

MusiConversations on Jazz - Schu-Memories by Tom Schuman on BB King - Season 1a Episode 4 - Originally Aired 2021

As an extension to MusiConversations on Jazz, this episode of the Schu-Memories series, Tom Schuman’s shares his memorable encounter with blues legend B.B. King during the 1989 JVC Grand Parade du Jazz in Nice, France. Meeting B.B. King * Tom approached B.B. King outside the bar at the Hyatt hotel, introducing himself. * B.B. surprised Tom by recognizing him and praising Spyro Gyra’s music, leaving Tom deeply honored and humbled. A Conversation About Sobriety * At the time, Tom was struggling with staying sober amidst the festival atmosphere. * He sought B.B.’s advice, and B.B. responded candidly, suggesting that Tom should enjoy life because "you never know when you're going to go." While lighthearted, this advice encouraged Tom to reflect but ultimately stay on the wagon that day. Balancing Music and Relationships * Tom asked B.B. about maintaining relationships while leading a life on the road. * B.B.’s humorous and insightful response, “I don’t need help being miserable. I can be miserable all by myself,” highlighted his deep connection to his music, which he personified as his true companion.

MusiConversations on Jazz - Schu-Memories by Tom Schuman on Buddy Tate - Season 1a Episode 3 - Originally Aired 2021

This podcast episode features a heartfelt story from Tom Schuman about his encounter with legendary saxophonist Buddy Tate at the 1989 JVC Grand Parade du Jazz in Nice, France. The Festival Setting * The festival was an 11-day jazz event featuring legendary performers such as Dizzy Gillespie, Jimmy Heath, Lionel Hampton, B.B. King, and others. * Spyro Gyra performed during the festival, which concluded with a lively party at the Hyatt hotel near the beach in Nice. Meeting Buddy Tate * Tom met Buddy Tate, a former member of the Count Basie and Lionel Hampton bands, at the festival’s after-party. * Buddy was sharing stories about his career and the racial discrimination he faced, including being barred from entering venues like the Cotton Club and Birdland through the front door or using basic amenities due to segregation. A Powerful Moment * Moved by Buddy’s stories, Tom expressed his remorse, saying, “How can you even talk to a guy like me?” * Buddy responded with kindness, reassuring Tom that he understood it wasn’t his fault, embodying the familial and forgiving spirit of the jazz community. Reflections on Jazz Community * Tom highlights the camaraderie and acceptance within the jazz world, emphasizing that being part of the music community felt like belonging to a family.