Archive | Episode 2: Dizzy Gillespie

Talking Jazz with Ben Sidran

Episode 2: Dizzy Gillespie

Here’s the story: back in the mid-80’s on National Public Radio (NPR) in America, a show ran called Sidran On Record. Presented by Ben Sidran, a musician, author, lecturer and journalist, the show featured interviews with the great and the good from the world of Jazz. Miles, Dizzy, Herbie and Grover were amongst 60 interviews that ran over the course of 5 years. Many of the legends featured are sadly no longer with us, but the recordings are, and several years back Ben released these as part of a wonderful, 24 CD box set called Talking Jazz – bringing to life a golden period of entertainment and understanding as we learn about the masters, their thoughts and their works. Whilst this may seem like an advert for this prestigious box set, it isn’t really. Promise. We’ve been in touch with Ben and asked for his permission to use these interviews and create our own shows based on his works. Ben gave it two thumbs up and we’re delighted to present to you Talking Jazz with Ben Sidran, our most ambitious project to date.

Episode Two is produced by Scott Fugate, a man who knows a thing or two about our second interviewee as well: John Birks ‘Dizzy’ Gillespie, in a wonderfully compelling interview with Ben. We’re sure you’ll know the music, but the spirit and delightful humour of the man will shine through as well, which although makes us sad that he’s no longer with us, allows us a chance to celebrate his life, music and anecdotes. Absolutely unmissable.

If you fancy buying the essential box set, which includes the full sixty interviews, then here’s where you need to go.