This is an interview with jazz vocalist Jocelyn Medina, conducted by host Steve Roby on the Backstage Jazz Show. Jocelyn discusses her musical journey, including her transition from classical to jazz, influences like Herbie Hancock and Brazilian music, and her upcoming album to be recorded in Rio de Janeiro. She also shares insights into her previous album, Common Ground, and her upcoming show at Dazzle on March 6th with a local band playing Brazilian material and jazz tunes.

This episode of the Backstage Jazz Show features an interview with Linda Theus-Lee. She discusses her extensive musical career, education, and community involvement. She shares insights into her songs “Don't Stop the Music” and “You Make Me Smile,” highlighting the personal significance and inspiration behind the lyrics. 

Linda also details her upcoming show at Dazzle in downtown Denver, emphasizing her diverse musical abilities and commitment to celebrating women's history in music. 

Throughout the interview, Linda emphasizes her belief in education as a transformative force and her commitment to fostering a love for literacy and music through various programs in convalescent homes. This episode comprehensively overviews Linda Theus Lee's multifaceted career, passion for music, and dedication to community engagement.

In this episode of Backstage Jazz, host Steve Roby interviews trumpeter Jason Klobnak, the leader of J's Ruckus. They delve into Jason's impressive music background, discussing his early days playing in church and community jazz organizations. 

Jason shares that he originally hails from Des Moines, Iowa. He moved to Denver in 2004 to pursue his master's degree at the University of Denver, where he studied with renowned trumpeter Al Hood. 

Jason has accomplished much in the music industry throughout his career, including writing and publishing two jazz improv books and establishing an online school to teach improvisation. He's also taken on clinical work, conducting clinics at colleges and high schools and performing and composing with various groups. Jason's diverse experiences have ultimately led him to his current position as the music program chair at Arapahoe Community College.

The conversation shifts to J's Ruckus, Jason's innovative jazz fusion group. Steve explores the origins of the band and its unique approach to music. The band incorporates various styles, such as hip-hop, jazz fusion, and R&B, along with the use of effects pedals on the horns. 

The incredible rapping skills of R. Allen Brooks also accompany the music. Jason introduces each band member, highlighting their talents and the chemistry they have developed over the years. He emphasizes the fun nature of their music, both for the audience and the band members.

You can catch J's Ruckus at Dazzle on February 22 for a 6:30 p.m. show - tickets and info here.

This episode, Backstage Jazz, features an engaging conversation between host Steve Roby, Grammy-nominated singer Tierney Sutton, and jazz pianist Tamir Hendelman.

The duo delves into their musical journeys, from Tierney's discovery of jazz in college to Tamir's camaraderie and love for performing together. 

The episode also highlights their collaborative efforts during the pandemic, connecting with audiences through online concerts.

They discuss remarkable performances, including a special remote recording that solidified their musical bond. Tierney and Tamir share stories of their themed shows, featuring the songs of Johnny Mercer and the challenges and adventures of touring. 

Sutton and Hendelman express excitement about reconnecting with Denver audiences at Dazzle, discussing their upcoming Valentine's Month show, "L.O.V.E." 

Throughout, the duo showcases their passion for the Great American Songbook and their unique interpretations of beloved classics alongside lesser-known gems. 

Listeners can find their music on various streaming platforms, and details about their shows at Dazzle are included. 

Overall, this episode offers an intimate glimpse into the musical careers and artistry of Tierney Sutton and Tamir Hendelman

In this episode of Backstage Jazz, host Steve Roby interviews Aldo Pantoja, the lead singer of Don Chicharrón, Denver's only chicha band. Aldo explains the origins and influences of chicha music, a style of cumbia from Peru that blends elements of punk, surf, jazz, and salsa. He also discusses the band's formation and introduces two of their songs, “Sábado Gigante” and “Valle.” 

The podcast concludes with details about Don Chicharron’s upcoming show at Dazzle on February 16. 

Follow them on social media for more information and to get their music. Join Aldo and the band for a night of groovy cumbia rhythms and dancing at Dazzle.

When a jazz musician rolls into Denver for a performance, it's not often that a documentary film and immersive art exhibition await them. But jazz-great Eddie Henderson is no ordinary musician, nor has he led an ordinary life.

A few hours before Henderson played a two-show set at Denver’s premier jazz venue, Dazzle, an exhibit called Time and Spaces: The Life of Eddie Henderson opened to the public at the CU Denver Experience Gallery in the Denver Performing Arts Complex. It features archival photos, one of Henderson’s trumpets, and memorabilia, including a pair of skates he wore as a professional figure skater.

There was also a room to view a twenty-minute clip of the documentary Dr. Eddie Henderson: Uncommon Genius. The film examines the 83-year-old musician’s life, including how he overcame racial barriers and broke into fields that underrepresented Black men. In the 1960s, he became a professional figure skater and a practicing medical doctor. The documentary by Michelle Carpenter will screen at film festivals nationwide and air on PBS in February.

In this episode, we’ll hear from Andrew Palamara, the Gallery Coordinator for the exhibit Time and Spaces, Michelle Carpenter, documentarian for the film Dr. Eddie Henderson: Uncommon Genius, but up first is Mark Rabideau, a tenured professor of music at Colorado University and a good friend to Eddie Henderson. 

Be sure to stick around for an exclusive interview with Dr. Henderson towards the end of this podcast.

Today, we're diving deep into the vibrant jazz scene keeping Denver swinging. So, sit back, relax, or swing along as we unravel the best of Denver's live music spots and events jazzing up the city.

In this episode of the Backstage Jazz Show, host Steve Roby interviews arranger, composer, and pianist Dave Hansen. The discussion delves deep into Dave's musical journey, from his beginnings in saxophone performance to his vast experience composing for various artists and ensembles, including the Boston Pops.

It also highlights his fascinating career as a music educator that spanned 36 years at the University of Denver. The conversation further pivots to Dave's upcoming residency at DAZZLE starting February 18, along with a preview of some of his songs. The three-night residency promises a diverse range of performances, starting with a duo concert with violinist Claude Sim, followed by a tribute to his friend Al Hood, and concludes with a live recording of original compositions for piano, bass, and drums.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Presentation

00:33 Dave Hansen's Musical Journey

04:47 Exploring Dave's Music

21:47 Dave's Upcoming Shows at DAZZLE

21:55 In-depth Look at Each Show

28:34 Recording Live at DAZZLE

31:46 Where to Find Dave's Music

32:44 Conclusion and Farewell