Legacy Podcasts » BlackHistory

Buddy Guy 4

Andy Cahn — Sat, 28 Feb 2009 06:53:56 +0000

Producer: Joyride Media

Bill Withers 4

Andy Cahn — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 06:43:06 +0000

Producer: Joyride Media

Reccomended: Bill Withers catalog

Fats Waller 4

Andy Cahn — Thu, 26 Feb 2009 06:29:46 +0000

Producer: Joyride Media

Reccomended: Fats Waller: If You Gotta Ask

Sam Cooke 4

Andy Cahn — Wed, 25 Feb 2009 17:47:05 +0000

Sam Cooke’s popularity didn’t stop him from trying to improve himself and his music, from an intellectual standpoint. Having started with traditional hymns and adding new lyrics, he had attained success and kept challenging himself intellectually, reading everything from Aristotle to James Baldwin. In this podcast, author Peter Guralnick, Sam’s brother LC Cooke and musicians Bobby Womack and Hal Blaine describe the man’s motivations as he created Night Beat, the blues recording literally recorded in the middle of the night. Recording engineer Al Schmitt, who worked on some of Cooke’s best known music: “He was really hands on in the studio… just amazing.”

Songs included: “What A Wonderful World” “For Sentimental Reasons” “Trouble Blues” “Fool’s Paradise” and “Bring it on Home to Me”

Producer: Joyride Media

Miles Kind of Blue 4

Andy Cahn — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 18:51:52 +0000

Producer: Joyride Media

Love Train 4

Andy Cahn — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 17:32:33 +0000

In this episode, PIR artist Jean Carne describes the Philly sound as one that made you want to dance with its grooves, and was filled with positive lyrical messages as well.

“If you sing with emotion, the better the audience will love you. And I wanted to be loved” - Bunny “Mr. Emotions” Sigler, who Gamble and Huff found in their now exhaustive talent-search. As the label worked with an ever increasing number of artists, its songwriters now included Linda Creed and Thom Bell, and Gene McFadden and John Whitehead, who kept the love train rolling along with in its distinctive style of great music and positive messages.

Songs Included: ”TSOP” (MFSB); “Picture Us” (Bunny Sigler); “Sunshine” (The O’Jays); “Bad Luck” (Harold Melvin and the Bluenotes)

Producer: Joyride Media

Ashford and Simpson 4

Andy Cahn — Sun, 22 Feb 2009 17:35:23 +0000

“I look cool but on the inside I’m a nervous wreck” - Nick Ashford. As they began their career as performers, Nick and Valerie found some challenges in appearing on stage, as Nick details in this podcast. ”In the early years, I was just uncomfortable. They would put towels around me I’d sweat so much before I’d even go on.” But they also found they enjoyed meeting most anyone could help with songwriting, as Nick explains “I get inspiration from the people I meet. Seems like everybody’s got a story. What people are feeling, that’s what we want to write about.” Their longevity and success may be built on this simple idea, and may be why President Barack Obama has a special version of one of their songs. As Nick says, “You can do it, if you have the energy and the will to do it.”

Songs included: “Found A Cure” “I’m Every Woman” “Solid (as Barack)”

Producer: Joyride Media

Buddy Guy 3

Andy Cahn — Sat, 21 Feb 2009 06:52:33 +0000

In this podcast, the living legend of blues guitar describes his start in Louisiana, his relationship with the instrument and the move to Chicago. Once there, he established himself at the 708 Club, which lead to his first encounter with the “MF”s at Chess, including “Muddy, Wolf and Walter” (as in Waters, Howling and Little!). Buddy’s excitement at his first recording session with Cobra Records, and the way he tells the story is the same excitement he had after seeing Guitar Slim perform. ”I want to sound like BB King and act like Guitar Slim.” Noting the man had a fishing line instead of a guitar strap, “That’s what you call PLAYING a guitar. He didn’t baby it and I don’t now. People want to know how come you break so many strings. If you don’t break ‘em, you aren’t playing.”

Songs included: “Let Me Love You Baby” “Mustang Sally” “Stone Crazy”

Producer: Joyride Media

Reccomended: Buddy Guy - Can’t Quit the Blues

Bill Withers 3

Andy Cahn — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 06:42:01 +0000

The story of Bill Withers continues with the artist, himself, thinking back to the the making of his debut album. The record was produced by legendary R&B keyboardist Booker T Jones. In an odd twist, the backing band was most of the Booker T & the MGs, but with Steven Stills subbing for Steve Cropper. The combination was perfect for Bill Wither’s acoustic soul. Critic Anthony DeCurtis adds some of his own insights about these sessions.

Producer: Joyride Media

Reccomended: Bill Withers catalog

Fats Waller 3

Andy Cahn — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 06:28:12 +0000

Fats Waller’s famous compositions of the 1930s and 40s have attained an immortal, standard-level of recognition and have stood the test of time. But what is lesser known is that Fats Waller was also an entertainer par excellence, bringing the music he performed to life with jokes and asides to the audience. As historian Dick Hyman explains, “he was engaging in signifying - critiquing something while you are actually performing. Satirizing what he is singing in very sophisticated ways.” Playwrite and critic Murray Horowitz calls Waller “one of the greatest jazz musicians of the first 50 years of the music, but also one of the great comedians of the golden age of American comedy”!

Music included: “Ain’t Misbehavin’” “Bessie Bessie” “Christopher Columbus” “A Change in Me” “It’s a Sin to Lie” and “Your Feets Too Big”

Producer: Joyride Media

Reccomended: Fats Waller: If You Gotta Ask

Sam Cooke 3

Andy Cahn — Wed, 18 Feb 2009 17:45:57 +0000

Producer: Joyride Media

Miles Kind of Blue 3

Andy Cahn — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 18:51:15 +0000

In this podcast, musicians Herbie Hancock, David Amram and Jimmy Cobb address the music theory behind Kind of Blue, and how the feeling of the musicians was equally as important as the compositions themselves in its creation. Considered “Modal Jazz” as it is written from a few basic notes that form the structure of the song, it is as Herbie Hancock says “a new use of an old technique.” David Amram expounds: “Miles knew that music from India, the middle east and native music around the world would have a basic scale, and the sophistication would be in HOW you did it.” Herbie Hancock concurs with Amram on his interpretation of this historic album: “Musicians could easily learn the songs, of course the challenge was playing them.”

Songs included: “All Blues” “Blue in Green” and “Freddie Freeloader”

Producer: Joyride Media

Love Train 3

Andy Cahn — Mon, 16 Feb 2009 17:31:12 +0000

Philadelphia International takes over the airwaves of the 70s: the incredible O’Jays are featured in this podcast, with founding member Walter WIlliams, who talks about growing up with Eddie Levert in Ohio, where they were REQUIRED to sing gospel. After an encounter with Gamble and Huff during and Intruders show at the Apollo Theatre, The O’Jays joined Philadelphia International as the label hit its creative and commercial peak. Gamble and Huff showed their prowess with established artists (The Spinners, Lou Rawls and Denice Williams) and with new groups such as The Three Degrees, as part of a Motown-like string of hits.
Songs included in this podcast:

“For the love of Money” “Backstabbers” (O’Jays) “Then Came You” (The Spinners featuring Dionne Warwick) “Gonna Take a Miracle” (Denice Williams) “Enjoy Yourself” (The Jacksons) “You’ll Never Find Another Love Like Mine” “When Will I See You Again?” (The Three Degrees)

Producer: Joyride Media

Ashford and Simpson 3

Andy Cahn — Sun, 15 Feb 2009 17:34:21 +0000

Nick and Valerie describe their years as songwriters with Motown, and the moment when they asked Berry Gordy for a “divorce,” so they could become artists themselves. It turned out to be the best of both worlds, as they would frequently return to work with various Motown artists, while continuing to grow as performers themselves. Valerie Simpson maintains a generous point of view on writing for others: “I wear the hat of a songwriter when I’m writing. That’s the idea — for some great artist to sing your song. I’m really happy when I hear Diana Ross sing “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” — I could not have done that better!” Reflecting on the countless covers of that most famous composition, she says, “the song belongs to everyone.”Songs included: “I’m Every Woman” “Your Precious Love” “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” and “Reach Out and Touch Somebody’s Hand”

Producer: Joyride Media

Buddy Guy 2

Andy Cahn — Sat, 14 Feb 2009 06:51:23 +0000

Producer: Joyride Media

Reccomended: Buddy Guy - Can’t Quit the Blues

Bill Withers 2

Andy Cahn — Fri, 13 Feb 2009 06:40:39 +0000

The music of Bill Withers can definitely speak for itself as a timeless collection of songs, perfect for 1971 with it’s mix of gritty southern R&B, introspective and politically charged lyrics, and even a touch of Woodstock hippie vibes. But his debut album, “Just as I Am” has a very underrated role in the history of landmark albums by DIY artists who circumvented the major label system. Bill discusses how he was put off by the LA star machine and wound up landing at Clarence Avant’s startup indie label, Sussex Records.

Producer: Joyride Media

Reccomended: Bill Withers catalog

Fats Waller 2

Andy Cahn — Thu, 12 Feb 2009 06:26:18 +0000

Strangely enough, two things happened to Fats after he died: he essentially disappeared from our culture’s memory for over 30 years, and when he was talked about, it centered around his clowning and humor, which was sorely misunderstood. Despite his untimely death, Fats Waller spent nearly every day of his short life making the music he loved. In that time, he created a rich, prolific legacy that today is justly revered.

Producer: Joyride Media

Reccomended: Fats Waller: If You Gotta Ask

Sam Cooke 2

Andy Cahn — Wed, 11 Feb 2009 17:44:35 +0000

The legendary track “Cupid” kicks off our second Sam Cooke feature. As soon as you hear his voice, it’s undeniable that this is what Sam Cooke was born to do. His brother, LC Cooke, talks here about the moment Sam knew that he was going to be pro very early in life. Even as a kid, he used to perform for popsicle sticks representing his audience to prepare for a life free of the 9-5 grind. Click the big play button for more.

Producer: Joyride Media

Recommended: The Best of Sam Cooke

Miles Kind of Blue 2

Andy Cahn — Tue, 10 Feb 2009 17:30:27 +0000

Our second Miles Davis segment begins with legendary saxophonist Jackie McLean and Kind of Blue drummer Jimmy Cobb talking about the sound Miles was after with his 1959 sextet at the first Kind of Blue recording session on March 2, 1959. Herbie Hancock also adds his thoughts on Miles’ priority for the session to capture the moment - not to do multiple takes of the same piece to create something mistake-free.

Music heard in all the Miles Davis episodes comes from the new 50th Anniversary Legacy Edition of Kind of Blue - winner of “Best Album Notes” at this past weekend’s Grammy© Awards! So please join us in congratulating the author, Francis Davis, for his achievement.

Producer: Joyride Media

Love Train 2

Andy Cahn — Mon, 09 Feb 2009 17:28:53 +0000

As introduced by the host, Jeff Foxx, Philly International’s biggest hits were filled with lush strings and beautiful horns from their house orchestra, MFSB. Gamble & Huff recall what they remember about the arrangements, and call out many of the people who were responsible for these recordings. Members of the Delfonics discuss Thom Bell’s arrangements of their early hits like “Ready or Not” and “La La La La La Means I love You.” We also hear from Russel Tompkins, Jr of the Stylistics.

Producer: Joyride Media

Ashford and Simpson 2

Andy Cahn — Sun, 08 Feb 2009 17:33:06 +0000

For part 2, Ashford and Simpson discuss how they first got introduced at Motown. They almost ran out before the meeting started, so thank got they stuck around. This piece includes bits of Nickolas and Valerie’s own performances of “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” and “You’re All I Need to Get By” from their new live CD/DVD release The Real Thing.

Producer: Joyride Media

Buddy Guy 1

Andy Cahn — Sat, 07 Feb 2009 06:44:14 +0000

Our Black History Month feature for Saturdays will be bluesman Buddy Guy in his own words and music. Buddy Guy’s own comments come from an exclusive interview session, and include many recollections and insights that will heard on your station for the first time. Hosted by journalist Anthony DeCurtis, this four-part series also includes 15 classic tracks from throughout Guy’s career.

Producer: Joyride Media

Reccomended: Buddy Guy - Can’t Quit the Blues

Bill Withers 1

Andy Cahn — Fri, 06 Feb 2009 06:30:53 +0000

Every Friday in February, find out why Bill Withers is just as he is. In a rare interview, Bill discusses his career as a groundbreaking singer/songwriter. He mostly focuses on his 1971 debut “Just as I am” - a classic album that features hits like “Ain’t No Sunshine” and “Grandma’s Hands.” His low-key mix of folk, funk and gospel is evident on those two hits and throughout the album.

Producer: Joyride Media

Reccomended: Bill Withers catalog

Fats Waller 1

Andy Cahn — Thu, 05 Feb 2009 06:19:32 +0000

Thursdays are Fats Waller day here at the Legacy Podcasts, in honor of Black History Month.

Fats Waller is one of America’s great composers and performers of the 20th century. His songs, stride piano style and on-stage and on-screen antics were legendary and made him one of the first African-American superstars.

Count Basie sat at his feet to learn, Art Tatum considered Fats the best, and Waller’s stride style influenced Duke Ellington, Thelonious Monk, Dave Brubeck and many others.

Producer: Joyride Media

Reccomended: Fats Waller: If You Gotta Ask

Sam Cooke 1

Andy Cahn — Wed, 04 Feb 2009 17:42:30 +0000

Legacy Podcasts’ Black History Month series continues with a four-part look at the highly influential career of Sam Cooke. You’ll hear music from throughout his career that displays the great bredth of his talent before his tragic death in 1964 at the age of 33 - from his gospel roots to his upbeat classic hits, and from his high energy live concerts to his recordings of late-night mood pieces. Interview subjects include R&B legend Bobby Womack, Sam’s brother L.C. Cooke, and drummer Hal Blaine.

Look for updates every Wednesday all February!

Producer: Joyride Media

Miles Kind of Blue 1

Andy Cahn — Tue, 03 Feb 2009 18:50:25 +0000

Our Black History Month feature continues with another great African-American musician - Miles Davis, to honor the 50th anniversary of his landmark album “Kind of Blue.” Collaborators, friends, critics and historians look back on how this record was created and its impact on music and pop culture over the last 50 years.

Love Train 1

Andy Cahn — Mon, 02 Feb 2009 17:28:49 +0000

Our Black History Month series continues with the first of four pieces on the great artists of Philly International Records.

Producer: Joyride Media

Ashford and Simpson 1

Andy Cahn — Sun, 01 Feb 2009 17:16:58 +0000

We launch our 28 days of Black History series with the first of four segments on legendary songwriting duo Nickolas Ashford and Valerie Simpson. These two have been responsible for many of the biggest r&b hits of the last 40 years - including “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough,” “Ain’t Nothing Like the Real Thing,” “I’m Every Woman,” and their own classic “Solid.”

The Real Thing - their new live album is in stores now on CD and DVD, featuring brand-new performances of these classic songs and many more.

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