For some years now, I've been interviewing musicians in an effort to learn more about our world of creative music, music of the spirit, and/or "jazz" music. In trying to articulate what I'm after I looked up the word "ethos," and among the definitions I found was this one:
"the characteristic spirit of a culture, era, or community as manifested in its beliefs and aspirations." In these conversations, these musicians illuminate the ethos of this music and its relationship to the moment - past, present, and future. As everyone has something a little different to share, the project has taken on a life of its own and these themes are mingled with individuals' stories, the soul and spirit, the magic and the evolution of music.
The interviews published on this website are transcriptions of conversations lightly edited in an effort to improve clarity and flow. In some places, there are details (especially names of people and places) that still need confirmation and correction. I have collected over 30 interviews so far and I am exploring publishing a book. This work is ongoing. As I transcribe these conversations I will make some of them available here on this site.
Content Warning: Some interviews may contain offensive language.
Click on the photos above, or use the "Interviews" tab to navigate to interviews listed chronologically, newest to oldest
Use the "About" tab to learn more about Anders Griffen and this project
©2011-2023. Ownership of the interviews and feature text belongs exclusively to the author, Anders Griffen. Excerpts and links may be used with permission, provided that full and clear credit is given to the author, Anders Griffen, and musicevolution.info with appropriate and specific direction to the original content. Please get in touch with any questions!
Michael Carvin • Vincent Chancey • Victor Lewis • Stanley Cowell • Terri Lyne Carrington • Kenny Washington • John Clark • Bill Cole • Denardo Coleman • Randy Brecker • Pheeroan akLaff • Dick Griffin • Wallace Roney • Larry Grenadier • Kim Clarke • Graham Haynes • Herb Bushler • Ronnie Burrage • Doug Carn • Freda Payne • Henry Franklin • Michael Gregory Jackson • Marilyn Mazur • William Parker • Calvin Keys • Sonelius Smith • Douglas Ewart • Meshell Ndegeocello • Billy Hart • Roberto Miranda • Calvin Hill • Bob James • Joanne Brackeen • Bertha Hope
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