Explore every episode of the podcast 830 - A Jazz Podcast

Tune in each week to 8:30 -A Jazz Podcast, where your hosts Herman "Hollywood" Dawkins and Ray The Jazzman bring listeners engaging conversations and insights from the world of jazz. This week's featured guest is legendary jazz drummer Billy Cobham, whose groundbreaking career has influenced generations of musicians. The episode explores his remarkable musical journey, creative process, and lasting impact on jazz and fusion music.

Songs Include : 

Red Baron
Mendocino
Crosswind
Bahama Mama - Billy Cobham, Steve Khan, Alphonso Johnson, Tom Scott
Stratus
Life Is Just A Game - Stanley Clarke
La Guernica

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Tune in to this week's episode of 8:30 -A Jazz Podcast with your hosts, Herman "Hollywood" Dawkins and Ray The Jazzman, as they celebrate the timeless artistry of jazz legend Lonnie Liston Smith. Known for his innovative fusion of jazz, soul, and cosmic sounds, Lonnie Liston Smith has inspired generations of musicians and listeners alike. Hollywood and Ray explore his remarkable career, unforgettable recordings, and lasting influence on contemporary jazz. Don't miss this engaging conversation filled with great music, fascinating insights, and a heartfelt tribute to one of jazz's true visionaries.

Songs Include : 

1. Midsummer Magic
2. Sunbeams
3. Sorceress (Live)
4. Meditations
5. Summer Days
6. Footprints
7. A Lover’s Dream

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This week on Podcast 8:30, your hosts Herman “Hollywood” Dawkins and Ray “The Jazzman” shine a spotlight on Blue Note trumpet legend Donald Byrd, whose sound bridged hard bop sophistication with a forward-looking groove. From his early collaborations with jazz greats to his evolution into a pioneer of jazz-funk, Byrd’s artistry never stood still. The hosts dive into how his Blue Note recordings captured both technical brilliance and a deep sense of soul that still resonates today. Tune in as they celebrate a musician who not only defined an era but pushed jazz into exciting new territory.

Songs Include:

1. Flight Time
2. Jeannne - Live At The Half Note Cafe
3. Places And Spaces
4. Blackjack
5. Cristo Redentor
6. Estavanico

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We celebrate Ahmad Jamal by following his sound from a 1958 Chicago club recording to later-era gems and a 2012 “Ponciana” performance in Paris. We focus on his signature use of space, the trio’s feel, and why his touch influenced generations of jazz musicians. 
• the backstory of “Ponciana” and the Pershing Hotel recording 
• how Jamal uses space and why Miles Davis admired it 
• “New Rumba” and Jamal’s connection to the Miles repertoire 
• a jump to later recordings and the smooth orchestration on “Hello” 
• why “The Awakening” hit Ray so hard and the magic of Jamal’s presence 
• crate-digging “Genetic Walk” and exploring albums beyond Spotify 
• shout outs plus March jazz birthdays and community notes 
Go back and listen to them all. Listen to them from the beginning.

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Pianist Ahmad Jamal brought a refined elegance to jazz that reshaped the way musicians approached space, rhythm, and dynamics. On this week’s episode of *8:30 with your host Herman “Hollywood” Dawkins and Ray The Jazzman*, we celebrate his signature minimalist touch and the profound influence it had on generations of players. From his groundbreaking trio recordings to his subtle yet powerful phrasing, Jamal proved that what you don’t play can be just as important as what you do. Tune in as we explore the timeless artistry of a pianist who turned restraint into a revolutionary sound.

Songs Include :

1. Poinciana
2. New Rhumba
3. Bellows
4. The Awaking
5. Genetic Walk
6. Poinciana - Live In Paris

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On this week’s 8:30 Jazz Podcast, host Herman Hollywood Dawkins and Ray The Jazzman dive deep into the brilliant Wayne Shorter compositions that helped define the sound of Weather Report. They explore how Shorter blended jazz improvisation with cinematic textures and global influences. The conversation highlights his masterful use of space, harmony, and abstraction, showing how his writing pushed the boundaries of jazz fusion without ever losing emotional depth. Tune in as they celebrate Shorter’s visionary pen and the timeless compositions that continue to inspire musicians across generations.

Songs Include:

"Elegant People" Wayne Shorter 

"Eurydice" Wayne Shorter 

"Sightseeing" Wayne Shorter 

"When Was It Now" Wayne Shorter 

"Port Of Entry" Wayne Shorter 

"Plaza Real" Wayne Shorter 

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Grover Washington Jr. was a trailblazing saxophonist who helped shape the sound of smooth jazz while staying deeply rooted in soul, funk, and R&B. Rising to fame in the 1970s, he delivered timeless classics like “Mister Magic” and the Grammy-winning “Just the Two of Us,” blending sophistication with street-level groove. His warm tone and lyrical phrasing made jazz accessible to wider audiences without ever watering it down. On the weekly podcast show 8:30, host Herman Hollywood Dawkins and Ray The Jazzman celebrate Grover Washington Jr. as a true architect of modern jazz and a forever influence on the culture. 🎷

Songs include:

1. Mister Magic

2. Inner City Blues (Make Me Wanna Holler)

3. Just the Two Of Us - with Bill Withers

4. Let it Flow (For Dr. J)

5. Soulful Strut - (Live)

6. Black Frost

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Freddie Hubbard was a blazing jazz trumpeter whose power, precision, and range helped define hard bop and post-bop. From his early Blue Note classics like Open Sesame and Ready for Freddie to his genre-crossing CTI years, Hubbard fused virtuosic fire with deep, soulful lyricism. His collaborations with Art Blakey, Herbie Hancock, and Wayne Shorter cemented his reputation as both a fearless soloist and an essential sideman. Tune in at 8:30 to the Weekly Jazz Podcast as host Herman Hollywood Dawkins and Ray The Jazzman celebrate the sound, stories, and lasting influence of legendary Freddie Hubbard. 🎺

Songs Include:

Freddie Hubbard, "Red Clay"

Freddie Hubbard, "Birdlike"

Freddie Hubbard, "Liquid Love"

Herbie Hancock, "Maiden Voyage"

Freddie Hubbard, "The Black Angel"

Freddie Hubbard, "Little Sunflower"

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Jazz has always thrived on collaboration, where sparks fly when different voices meet in the same groove. On the weekly 8:30 Jazz Podcast, host Herman Hollywood Dawkins and Ray The Jazzman dig into those legendary partnerships that turned late-night jam sessions into timeless records. From horn battles to rhythm-section chemistry, we break down how trust, risk, and listening shape the sound. Tune in and feel how collaboration keeps jazz alive, unpredictable, and endlessly cool. 🎷

Songs Include:

Jimmy Smith & Wes Montgomery, Call Me.

Miles Davis & John Coltrane, So What (Live In Paris 1960).

Chick Corea & Herbie Hancock, Homecoming.

Art Blakey And The Jazz Messengers, Dat Dere (Live In Toyko Japan 1960).

Chick Corea & Gary Burton, Hot House.

Les McCann & Eddie Harris, You Got It In Your Soulness (Live At The Montreux Jazz Festival).

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Big Band Jazz emerged in the early 20th century and is known for its powerful sound created by large ensembles of brass, woodwind, and rhythm instruments. It became especially popular during the Swing Era of the 1930s and 1940s, when bands led by musicians like Duke Ellington and Count Basie filled dance halls across the United States. The music features strong rhythms, arranged sections, and opportunities for improvised solos that showcase individual performers. Big band jazz played a major role in shaping American music and continues to influence jazz and popular styles today.

Count Basie Big Band, April In Paris.

Bob Mintzer Big Band, Moonlight Serenade.

Christian Mcbride Big band, Brother Mister.

Bob Mintzer Big Band, Christopher Columbus.

Roy Hargrove Big Band, Mombo Roy.

Duke Ellington Big Band, Satin Doll.

Duke Ellington Big Band, Hello Little Girl.

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This week on the 8:30 Podcast, Herman Hollywood  Dawkins and Ray The Jazzman dive into the smooth, melodic world of legendary guitarist Earl Klugh. They explore how Klugh’s signature blend of jazz, pop, and classical influences reshaped contemporary guitar music and continues to inspire players today. Tune in as the duo shares stories, insights, and timeless tracks that showcase Klugh’s unmatched artistry.

Songs Include :

1. Twinkle

2. Dr. Macumba

3. The Afterglow

4. Heart String

5. The Traveler

6.  It’s So Easy Loving You - Hubert Laws - Earl Klugh

7.  Master Of Suspense

8. Wind And The Sea

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Charles Mingus was a visionary bassist and composer whose music fused fiery emotion with intricate, unexpected structures. His work pushed jazz forward by blending hard-driving swing, blues, classical influences, and fearless improvisation into something unmistakably his own. Mingus’s genius lies in how boldly he challenged tradition while creating music that still feels alive, urgent, and essential today.

Songs Include :

1. II B.S.
2. Theme For Lester Young (Goodbye Pork Pie Hat)
3. Reincarnation Of A Lovebird
4. Fables Of Faubus
5. The Dry Cleaner From Des Moines - Joni Mitchell
6. Carolyn Kiki Mingus

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Tune in to 8:30, the weekly jazz podcast hosted by Herman "Hollywood" Dawkins and Ray "The Jazzman," where great conversations and timeless music come together. Episode #84 shines a spotlight on legendary jazz musician Cal Tjader, celebrating his groundbreaking contributions to Latin jazz and vibraphone performance. Whether you're a lifelong jazz enthusiast or discovering the genre for the first time, this episode offers engaging stories, musical insights, and a deeper appreciation of Tjader's remarkable legacy. Don't miss another unforgettable edition of 8:30, where jazz history and passion come alive every week.

Songs Include:

1. Soul Sauce 

2. Mambo Inn

3. My Ship 

4. Afro Blue

5. Oran

6. Cuban Fantasy 

7. Warm Song 

8. The Prophet 

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This week on the 8:30 A Jazz Podcast, we’re shining the spotlight on legendary jazz guitarist Wes Montgomery. Known for his warm tone and signature thumb-picking style, Montgomery redefined jazz guitar with hits like “Four on Six” and “West Coast Blues.” His soulful phrasing and innovative approach continue to inspire generations of musicians, proving that his sound is as timeless as ever.

Songs Include : 

1. Bumpin’ On Sunset
2. Airegin
3. Windy
4. Four On Six
5. Full House
6. James And Wes - Jimmy Smith
7. Goin On To Detroit

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Jazz-Rock Fusion emerged in the late 1960s and early '70s, blending the improvisational elements of jazz with the energy and rhythms of rock music. Pioneered by artists like Miles Davis with Bitches Brew and bands such as Weather Report and Mahavishnu Orchestra, it introduced complex time signatures, electric instruments, and experimental soundscapes. This genre created a dynamic and evolving musical landscape that pushed the boundaries of both jazz and rock, influencing generations of musicians across diverse genres.

Songs Include:

1. Birds Of Fire - Mahavishnu Orchestra

2. Captain Fingers - Lee Ritenour

3. Hot Fun - Stanley Clarke

4. Quadrant 4 - Billy Cobham

5. The Magician - Return To Forever

6. In A Trance - Hiromi, Anthony Jackson, Simon Phillips

7. Herandu - Weather Report

8. Ice Cakes - Dixie Dregs

9. Five G - Bruford

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On this episode of the 8:30 Jazz Podcast, we dive into the groundbreaking career of Bob James, a pioneering jazz pianist, composer, and arranger whose influence spans over five decades. Known for his fusion of jazz with elements of R&B and pop, James helped shape the sound of contemporary jazz, with hits like "Nautilus" becoming iconic in the genre. His ability to blend complex musicality with accessibility has earned him a loyal following, making him a key figure in both jazz history and modern music. James's music, especially his early albums, has been sampled often by many hip-hop artists, with his songs "Nautilus" and "Take Me to the Mardi Gras" leading the field.

• Songs Include:

1. Angela (Theme From Taxi)

2. Nautilus

3. Night Crawler

4. Xraxse

5. Ashanti

6. I’ll Never See You Smile Again

7. Bare Bones

8. James 

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Bill Evans was an influential American jazz pianist known for his innovative harmonic language and lyrical improvisation. A master of modal jazz, he played a key role in shaping the sound of the Miles Davis sextet on Kind of Blue and went on to lead his own groundbreaking trios. His intimate, introspective style continues to inspire pianists and jazz enthusiasts, cementing his legacy as one of the genre's most important figures.

Songs Include : 

1. Waltz For Debby

2. My Romance

3. The Dolphin

4. Gloria’s Step

5. You Must Believe In Spring

6. Some Other Time

7. Nardis

8. My Funny Valentine

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In this continuing episode the 8:30 crew is celebrating more from the Blue Note Records catalog of sought-after classics matered by Kevin Gray and produced by Joe Harley from the original analog mater tapes. Each record features classic artwork and stunning Francis Wolff photography on deluxe gatefold jackets. Along with the legendary engineering from Rudy Van Gelder's studios. 

Songs Include:

McCoy Tyner "I Didn't Know What Time It Was"

Herbie Hancock "Firewater"

Jimmy Smith & Stanley Turrentine "Prayer Meetin"

Chick Corea "Steps-What Was"

Andrew Hill "Tired Trade"

Lee Morgan "You Go To My Head"

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In this episode the 8:30 crew will be examining the Blue Note Tone Poet Jazz Series is a prestigious collection of jazz albums, celebrating the genre's rich legacy with meticulously remastered vinyl releases. Curated by the renowned Blue Note Records, this series showcases iconic recordings from legendary artists such as John Coltrane, Wayne Shorter, and Herbie Hancock, offering a fresh listening experience for both longtime fans and newcomers. With its focus on preserving the essence of jazz, the Tone Poet series has become a beloved cornerstone for audiophiles and jazz enthusiasts alike. What also makes this series special is the inside album gatefold photography of musicians by the legendary co-founder of Blue Note Records Mr. Francis Wolff.

Songs listed:

Horace Silver "Song For My Father"

Bobby Hutcherson "Til Then"

John Coltrane "Blue Train"

Art Blakey "Ping Pong"

Hank Mobley "Ace Deuce Trey"

Wayne Shorter "Toy Tone"

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The Jazz Crusaders were a pioneering American jazz group formed in the early 1960s, known for blending hard bop with soul, R&B, and later, funk influences. Featuring key members like Wayne Henderson on trombone, Joe Sample on piano, Wilton Felder on saxophone and Larry Carlton on guitar, the group created a signature sound with their unique front-line of trombone and tenor saxophone. Eventually shortening their name to The Crusaders in the 1970s, they evolved into a more commercially successful fusion band while still retaining strong jazz roots.

Part 2 Songs Include : 

1. Fairy Tales
2. Eleanor Rigby
3. Keep That Same Old Feeling
4. Rhapsody And Blues
5. Street Life

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The Jazz Crusaders were a pioneering American jazz group formed in the early 1960s, known for blending hard bop with soul, R&B, and later, funk influences. Featuring key members like Wayne Henderson on trombone and Joe Sample on piano, the group created a signature sound with their unique front-line of trombone and tenor saxophone. Eventually shortening their name to The Crusaders in the 1970s, they evolved into a more commercially successful fusion band while still retaining strong jazz roots. Also have a interview with friends of the 8:30 crew Mr. Nate Lee on his musical career and a blindfold test in this pt.1 episode of the Crusaders. 

Songs Include : 

1. Freedom Sound
2. Put It Where You Want It
3. Chain Reaction

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Marcus Miller is a renowned American bassist, saxophonist, keyboardist, composer, bandleader and producer known for his distinctive slap bass technique and genre-blending style. He has worked with legends like Miles Davis, Luther Vandross, and Herbie Hancock, contributing to some of the most iconic jazz, R&B, and fusion recordings and movie soundtracks of the past few decades. Beyond performance, Miller is also a prolific solo artist and advocate for music education and cultural diplomacy.

Songs Include:

1.  Never Too Much - Luther Vandross

2. Maputo - Bob James & David Sanborn

3. 3 Deuces - Live - Marcus Miller 

4.  Chicago Song - David Sanborn

5. Jean Pierre - Marcus Miller 

6. Tutu - Miles Davis

7. Detroit- Marcus Miller 

8. Seven Years of Good Luck - Joe Sample

9. On The Milky Way Express - Wayne Shorter

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Snarky Puppy is a genre-blending instrumental ensemble known for fusing elements of jazz, funk, R&B, and world music. Founded by bassist Michael League in 2004, the band has earned critical acclaim and multiple Grammy Awards for its innovative compositions and dynamic live performances. With a rotating lineup of top-tier musicians, Snarky Puppy has become a staple in modern fusion music, captivating audiences around the globe.

Songs Include:

1. Lingus
2. Something
3. Cliroy
4. East Bay
5. Tarova
6. Shofukan
7. Chonks - Live

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This week on 8:30...A Jazz Podcast, hosts Herman "Hollywood" Dawkins and Ray "The Jazzman" spotlight the legendary group Chicago, a band that successfully fused rock, jazz, and powerful horn arrangements into a signature sound that has endured for decades. Formed in the late 1960s, Chicago became known for chart-topping hits and sophisticated musicianship that brought jazz influences to mainstream audiences around the world. Their dynamic brass section and innovative songwriting helped redefine the possibilities of contemporary popular music. Join us as we explore the band's remarkable legacy, timeless recordings, and lasting impact on generations of musicians and fans alike.

Songs Include : 

Beginnings
Does Anybody Really Know What Time It Is
Introduction
Happy Cause I’m Going Home
25 or 6 to 4
Saturday In The Park
Just You And Me
Goodbye
Call On Me

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On this special jazz episode we look at the legendary music career of Mr. George Benson! an american guitarist, singer, and songwriter known for blending jazz with pop, R&B and soul. He gained widespread recognition with his album Breezin' in 1976, which featured the Grammy-winning hit "This Masquerade". With a smooth voice and virtuosic guitar style. Benson remains a celebrated figure in contemporary jazz and crossover music. This episode is dedicated to Ray The Jazzman's mother Mrs. Betty Jean Weaver, who recently passed away in June 26th 2025. One of her favorite musical artists that she enjoyed listening to and seeing in concert for years.

1. Breezin'

2. Turn Your Love Around

3. This Masquerade 

4. The World Is A Ghetto 

5. On Broadway 

6. Moody's Mood 

7. Mt. Airey Road

8. Summer Breeze 

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Clare Fischer (1928–2012) was a versatile American composer, arranger, and pianist whose career spanned jazz, classical, and pop music. He began his professional journey as a pianist and conductor for The Hi-Lo's, a vocal group, and gained early acclaim for his arrangements for Dizzy Gillespie's A Portrait of Duke Ellington. Over the decades, Fischer became a sought-after arranger for artists such as Prince, Michael Jackson, Paul McCartney, and Chaka Khan.

Nigerian Walk

Blues Bossa

Machaca

Pensativa 

Free Fall Vinus De Milo

Here's That Rainy Day

Endlessly 

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Carlos Santana is a legendary Mexican-American guitarist known for blending rock, Latin music, blues, and jazz into a unique and influential sound. He founded the Santana band in the late 1960s, gaining fame with their electrifying performance at Woodstock and hits like “Black Magic Woman” and “Oye Como Va.” The band has seen various lineups over the decades, but Santana’s signature guitar style remains at its heart, earning numerous Grammy Awards and a lasting legacy in modern music.

Songs Include : 

1. Milagro

2. Eternal Caravan Of Reincarnation

3. Waves Within

4. Look Up To See What’s Coming Down

5. Just In Time To See The Sun

6. Song Of The Wind

7.  Jingo

8. Samba Pa Ti

9. Europa (Earth’s Cry, Heaven’s Smile)

10. Black Magic Woman/ Gypsy Queen

11. Oye Como Va

12. Blues For Salvador

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Jimmy Smith was a pioneering American jazz organist, widely regarded for his mastery of the Hammond B-3 organ. He played a crucial role in popularizing the instrument in jazz, blending elements of blues, bebop, and gospel into a unique and soulful sound. With an innovative approach to rhythm and improvisation, Smith's influential recordings from the late 1950s and 1960s, such as Back at the Chicken Shack, left a lasting legacy on both jazz and soul music. He also recorded on Verve Records throughout the 60's and 70's making him the most recognized organist of his generation. 

Songs Include:

1. Midnight Special 

2. All Night Long 

3. Back At The Chicken Shack 

4. Wives And Lovers

5. The Theme From "Any Number Can Win" 

6. Confirmation 

7. The Sermon 

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Charlie Parker and Dizzy Gillespie were pioneers of bebop, a jazz movement that revolutionized the genre in the 1940s. Parker's virtuosic saxophone playing, combined with Gillespie's innovative trumpet techniques, pushed the boundaries of harmony, rhythm, and improvisation, creating complex, fast-paced compositions that required a deep level of skill and understanding. Their collaborations, marked by intricate melodies and advanced chord progressions, left a lasting impact on jazz, shaping its evolution and influencing generations of musicians.

Songs Include 

1. Just Friends - Charlie Parker
2. April In Paris - Charlie Parker
3. Bloomdido - Charlie Parker- Dizzy Gillespie
4. Mohawk - Charlie Parker - Dizzy Gillespie
5. Salt Peanuts - Charlie Parker - Dizzy Gillespie
6. Swing Low, Sweet Cadillac - Dizzy Gillespie
7. Kush - Dizzy Gillespie

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Rudy Van Gelder was a renowned American recording engineer, widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in the history of jazz music. Born on November 2, 1924, in Jersey City, New Jersey, he developed a passion for sound engineering at a young age, eventually leading him to set up his own recording studio in Hackensack, New Jersey, in 1952. Van Gelder's innovative techniques in recording and mixing, often utilizing his home studio's unique acoustics, helped shape the sound of countless classic jazz albums from the 1950s and 1960s, earning him the respect of artists and critics alike. Van Gelder's work with major jazz labels like Blue Note, Prestige, and Impulse! revolutionized the genre, capturing the essence of legendary musicians such as John Coltrane, Miles Davis, Thelonious Monk, and Art Blakey. His meticulous attention to detail and ability to capture the warmth and dynamics of live performances led to recordings that have since become timeless. His distinct sound, characterized by a rich, clear, and spatial quality, has been a defining feature of jazz records and continues to influence sound engineers to this day. Throughout his career, Rudy Van Gelder's influence extended far beyond the recording booth. He was a pioneer in advancing the role of the recording engineer as an integral part of the creative process, elevating the technical aspect of music production to an art form. Van Gelder's legacy lives on in the millions of albums he helped create, as well as in the ongoing admiration of his craftsmanship, which has ensured that his contributions to jazz and music, in general, are remembered for generations to come. Songs Include:

1. Bud Powell "Bouncin' With Bud"

2. Art Blakey "So Tired"

3. Herbie Hancock "King Cobra"

4. Horace Silver "Calcutta Cutie"

5. George Benson "So What "

6. Larry Young "The Moontrane"

7. Freddie Hubbard "Suite Sioux"

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In this episode your 8:30 Crew Herman Hollywood Dawkins and Ray The Jazzman explore the R&B side of Jazz with songs that are typically known as associated with R&B groups or acts. You will be able to hear how the music genres of Gospel, the Blues, and Rhythm and Blues all share something in common.

Songs include :

1. The Sound Table - Cameo
2. Valdez In The Country - Donny Hathaway
3. Fight Me, Chase Me - Ohio Players
4. Everybody Loves The Sunshine - Roy Ayers Ubiquity
5. Summer Madness - Kool& The Gang
6. New World Symphony - East Wind & Fire
7. City, Country, City - War
8. A Pauper In Paradise 3rd Movement - Gino Vanelli
9. Contusion - Stevie Wonder

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In this Exciting Super Special 2 hour 50th Episode from your 8:30 crew Herman Hollywood Dawkins and Ray The Jazzman, we are honoring our Dads. They are the ones who got us into Jazz, and in this Amazing Episode you will hear stories of Hollywood and The Jazzman growing up and listening to Jazz music!

Songs include:

1. Compared To What - Les McCann & Eddie Harris
2. My Favorite Things - John Coltrane
3. Walk on The Wild Side - Jimmy Smith
4. The Emperor - The Jazz Crusaders
5. What’d I Say Pt. 1 - Ray Charles
6. Fever - Ronnie Laws
7. Bag’s Groove - Herbie Mann
8. Maiden Voyage - Blood, Sweat & Tears
9. Stolen Moments - Oliver Nelson
10. Humpty Dumpty - Chick Corea
11. Never Will I Marry - Cannonball Adderley & Nancy Wilson
12. Festival - George Duke
13. The “In” Crowd - Ramsey Lewis

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On the next jazz podcast, the 8:30 crew will dive into the music of smooth jazz artists who created the sounds that played on radio stations throughout the country. Smooth jazz is a mellow, melodic genre that blends elements of jazz, r&b and pop music. Known for its soothing rhythms and polished instrumentation, it often features saxophones, keyboards and guitars. Musicians like David Sanborn, Bob James and Earl Klugh will be featured in this extended set so stay jazzed always!

1.Grover Washington Jr "Mister Magic"

2.Earl Klugh & Bob James "Kari"

3.Chuck Mangione "Feels So Good"

4.David Sanborn and Bob James "More Than Just Friends"

5.Al Jarreau "Were In This Love Together"

6.Onaje Allan Gumbs "No Question "

7.George Benson "This Masquerade "

8.Michael Frank's "When Sly Calls"

9.Larry Carlton "Smiles And Smiles To Go"

10.Hollywood Dawkins "And Then There Hollywood"

11.Steve Swallow "Last Night "

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Legendary Jean-Luc Ponty is a French jazz violinist and composer, renowned for his pioneering work in blending jazz improvisation with electronic music. Throughout his career, he has collaborated with a wide range of influential artists, including Frank Zappa, and has released numerous albums as a bandleader, pushing the boundaries of the violin in jazz and fusion. Ponty’s unique fusion of genres, innovative use of the electric violin, and mastery of complex harmonies have made him a key figure in both the jazz and progressive rock scenes.
Songs Include:
1.  Renaissance

2. Cosmic Messenger

3. Enigmatic Ocean Pt. II

4. Enigmatic Ocean Pt. III

5. Sunset Drive

6. A Taste Of Passion

7. The Gift Of Time

8. Individual Choice

9. Elephants In Love

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Welcome to this week’s episode of 8:30 A Jazz Podcast with your hosts Herman “Hollywood” Dawkins and Ray “The Jazzman.” Women have been at the heart of jazz since its earliest days, shaping the music as groundbreaking vocalists, instrumentalists, composers, and bandleaders. From the timeless artistry of Billie Holiday and Ella Fitzgerald to today’s innovative performers, their contributions continue to expand the boundaries of the genre. This episode celebrates the talent, creativity, and lasting influence of women in jazz whose voices and vision have enriched the soundtrack of generations.

Songs include:

1. Nice Work If You Can Get It - Ella Fitzgerald

2. Listen To Monk - Carmen McRae

3. My Shining Hour - Nancy Wilson

4. Afro Blue - Live - Dianne Reeves

5. Amandamada - Randy Brecker - Eliane Elias

6. Ponta De Areia - Esperanza Spaulding

7. Song For My Father - Dee Dee Bridgewater

8. Number One - Patrice Rushen

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The Yellowjackets and Spyro Gyra are both iconic jazz fusion bands that emerged in the late 1970s, but they represent distinct approaches to the genre. The Yellowjackets tend to blend complex harmonies and intricate rhythms with a more contemporary, experimental sound, often incorporating elements of funk and R&B into their music. In contrast, Spyro Gyra is known for its smoother, more accessible style, mixing jazz with elements of pop and Latin music, creating a more polished, radio-friendly sound. They have been together as a group for 50 years now still recording and touring extensively.

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In this Amazing 8:30 Episode, The 8:30 crew are literally going right off the cuff, 

picking songs to play and listen to as we are recording the episode.

This would have been 8:30 episode # 5, but we never released it, so we

are calling this one…"THE LOST EPISODE”.

It features Dexter Gordon, John Serry, Quincy Jones, Jacob Collier, 

 Herbie Hancock, Steely Dan, Joni Mitchell, AND George Duke.

Check out this incredible episode and enjoy Hollywood and Ray The Jazz Man

basically hanging out exploring new music together.

Songs Include:

1. Love For Sale - Dexter Gordon
2. Care To Dance - John Serry
3. Back On The Block - Quincy Jones
4. Time Alone With You - Jacob Collier
5. Space Captain - Herbie Hancock
6. Negative Girl - Steely Dan
7. Coyote - Joni Mitchell
8. Bus Tours - George Duke

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In this episode of our jazz podcast, we dive deep into the genius of Thelonious Monk, one of the most innovative and influential pianists in jazz history. We explore Monk's unique approach to rhythm, melody, and improvisation, highlighting his groundbreaking compositions and the lasting impact they've had on the genre. Through engaging analysis and rare insights, listeners will gain a deeper appreciation for Monk's distinctive voice and his role in shaping the evolution of modern jazz.

Songs Include:

1. Reflections
2. Bright Mississippi
3. Trinkle, Tinkle
4. Well You Needn’t
5. Thelonious
6. Epistrophy - John Fedchock New York Big Band

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George Duke was a pioneering keyboardist, composer, and producer whose career spanned jazz, funk, and fusion, blending complex improvisation with accessible melodies. Known for his virtuosic skill on both electric and acoustic keyboards, Duke played with notable artists like Frank Zappa, Miles Davis, and Stanley Clarke, shaping the sound of the 1970s and beyond. His ability to seamlessly merge genres, along with his distinctive style, made him one of the most influential musicians of his era.

Songs include:

1. Brazilian Love Affair
2. Hip Pockets
3. Wild Dog
4. Echidna’s Arf
5. Up On It
6. Genesis
7. 500 Miles To Go
8. Geneva

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Quincy Jones was a legendary American music producer, conductor, and composer, whose career spans over seven decades and has left an indelible mark on jazz, pop, and film music. He is perhaps best known for producing Michael Jackson's iconic albums Thriller and Bad, as well as his innovative work on the soundtrack for the film The Color Purple. With a Grammy Award-winning career that encompasses a wide range of genres, Jones is celebrated not only for his musical talent but also for his trailblazing role in the entertainment industry.

Songs Include:

1. Dead End
2. Killer Joe
3. Gula Matari
4. Boogie Bossa Nova
5. Tell Me A Bedtime Story
6. Smilin’ On Ya

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Cannonball Adderley was a celebrated American alto saxophonist known for his vibrant sound and engaging improvisational style. Rising to prominence in the late 1950s, he became a key figure in the hard bop jazz movement, collaborating with legends like Miles Davis and his brother Nat Adderley. His influential recordings, including "Mercy, Mercy, Mercy," showcased his ability to blend soulful melodies with intricate rhythms, leaving a lasting impact on the jazz genre.

Songs include: 

1. Love For Sale
2. Nippon Soul
3. Gemini
4. Jeanine
5. Hi Fly
6. This Here

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Atlantic Recording Corporation (simply known as Atlantic Records) is an American record label founded in October 1947 by Ahmet Ertegun and Herb Abramson. Over the course of two decades, starting from the release of its first recordings in January 1948,[3] Atlantic earned a reputation as one of the most important American labels, specializing in jazz, R&B, and soul by Aretha Franklin, Ray Charles, Wilson Pickett, Sam and Dave, Ruth Brown and Otis Redding. Its position was greatly improved by its distribution deal with Stax. In 1967, Atlantic became a wholly owned subsidiary of Warner Bros.-Seven Arts, now the Warner Music Group, and expanded into rock and pop music with releases by Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young, Led Zeppelin, and Yes.

1. In Walked Bud - Art Blakey, Thelonious Monk
2. Comin’ Home Baby - Herbie Mann
3. Doodlin’ - Ray Charles
4. Beaux J. Poo Boo - Les McCann
5. Lonely Woman - Ornette Coleman
6. Half Life - Hiram Bullock

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John William Coltrane (September 23, 1926 – July 17, 1967) was an American jazzsaxophonist, bandleader and composer. He is among the most influential and acclaimed figures in the history of jazz and 20th-century music.

Born and raised in North Carolina, Coltrane moved to Philadelphia after graduating from high school, where he studied music. Working in the bebop and hard bop idioms early in his career, Coltrane helped pioneer the use of modes and was one of the players at the forefront of free jazz. He led at least fifty recording sessions and appeared on many albums by other musicians, including trumpeter Miles Davis and pianist Thelonious Monk. Over the course of his career, Coltrane's music took on an increasingly spiritual dimension, as exemplified on his most acclaimed album A Love Supreme (1965)

1. Giant Steps
2. Central Park West
3. My Favorite Things
4. Untitled Original 11383 - Take 1
5. All Blues
6. Mars

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Lee Morgan, a formidable talent in the world of jazz, is best remembered for his groundbreaking work as a trumpet player on the Blue Note label. Born in Philadelphia in 1938, Morgan emerged as a prodigy in the jazz scene, joining Art Blakey’s Jazz Messengers at a young age. His distinctive, fiery tone and sophisticated improvisational style quickly set him apart from his peers. Morgan's 1963 album, "The Sidewinder," became a landmark in jazz, featuring the hit title track that has since become a jazz standard. His contributions to the hard bop genre were profound, blending complex rhythms with a robust, engaging sound. Despite his promising career, Morgan's life was tragically cut short when he was murdered in 1972 at the age of 33. Throughout his career, he recorded numerous influential albums and played with jazz legends such as John Coltrane and Wayne Shorter. His work remains a critical part of the jazz canon, celebrated for its creativity and technical brilliance. Morgan’s legacy endures through his recordings and the impact he had on his contemporaries. His innovative spirit continues to inspire trumpet players and jazz enthusiasts around the world.

Songs include:

1. A Night In Tunisia
2. The Sidewinder
3. Cornbread
4. The Gigolo
5. You Go To My Head
6. The Bee Hive
7. Speedball

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Josef Erich Zawinul (July 7 1932 - September 11, 2007) was an Austrian Jazz and Jazz Fusion keyboardist and Composer. First coming to prominence with saxophonist Cannonball Adderley, Zawinul went on to play with Miles Davis and to become one of the creators of Jazz Fusion, a musical genre that combined Jazz with Jazz Rock. He co-founded the group Weather Report. He pioneered the use of Electric Piano and Synthesizer and was named “Best Electric Keyboardist” twenty-eight times by the readers of Downbeat magazine.

Songs Include:

1. 8:30
2. In A Silent Way
3. Come Sunday
4. Patriots
5. East 12th Street Band
6. Mercy Mercy Mercy

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On this week’s episode of “8:30,” podcast hosts Herman Hollywood Dawkins and Ray The Jazzman take a deep dive into Miles Davis’ groundbreaking album Bitches Brew, a record that forever changed the direction of jazz fusion. Released in 1970, the album blended electric instruments, rock rhythms, and fearless improvisation into a bold and revolutionary sound that challenged traditional jazz audiences. Hollywood breaks down the album’s cultural impact while The Jazzman highlights the genius of Davis’ legendary ensemble, featuring musicians like Wayne Shorter, Chick Corea, and Joe Zawinul. Together, they celebrate Bitches Brew as a daring masterpiece that still inspires musicians and listeners more than five decades later.

Songs Include:

Pharoah's Dance

Bitches Brew 

Spanish Key

John McLaughlin 

Miles Run The Voodoo Down

Sanctuary 

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In this exciting episode, your 8:30 crew Herman “Hollywood" Dawkins and Ray the Jazzman explore the sounds of the Blue Note Artist Hank Mobley.

Henry Mobley (July 7, 1930 – May 30, 1986) was an American tenor saxophonist and composer.[1] Mobley was described by Leonard Feather as the "middleweight champion of the tenor saxophone",[2] a metaphor used to describe his tone, that was neither as aggressive as John Coltrane nor as mellow as Lester Young, and his style that was laid-back, subtle and melodic, especially in contrast with players such as Coltrane and Sonny Rollins. The critic Stacia Proefrock claimed him "one of the most underrated musicians of the bop era."

Songs Include:

1. Soul Station 
2. Work Out
3. Venus Di Mildew
4. Hank’s Waltz
5. High Modes

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Head Hunters is the twelfth studio album by American pianist, keyboardist and composer Herbie Hancock, released October 26, 1973, on Columbia Records. 

The album was a commercial and artistic breakthrough for Hancock, crossing over to funk and rock audiences and bringing jazz-funk fusion to mainstream attention, peaking at number 13 on the Billboard 200. Hancock is featured with woodwind player Bennie Maupin from his previous sextet and new collaborators – bassist Paul Jackson, percussionist Bill Summers and drummer Harvey Mason. The latter group of collaborators, which would go on to be known as The Headhunters, also played on Hancock's subsequent studio album Thrust (1974). All of the musicians (with the exception of Mason) play multiple instruments on the album.

The Library of Congress added it to the National Recording Registry, which collects "culturally, historically or aesthetically important" sound recordings from the 20th century.

Song Include:

1. Chameleon
2. Watermelon Man
3. Sly
4. Vein Melter

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In this episode of 8:30, your 8:30 crew take a deep dive into the artistry of the one and only Horace Silver. Born September 2nd 1928, Horace became a one of a kind soulful and unique pianist and adventurous composer with classic jazz standards like Song For My Father and Sister Sadie. Herman Hollywood Dawkins and Ray The Jazz Man invite you to come along for the treat for your ears and explore the fantastic sounds of Horace Silver.

Songs Include:

1. Song For My Father
2. Doodlin’
3. Lonely Woman
4. Sister Sadie
5. Que Pasa
6. Senor Blues
7. Barbara
8. Filthy McNasty

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In this exciting new episode your 8:30 crew Herman Hollywood Dawkins and Ray The Jazz Man take a look at the self proclaimed “World Greatest Bass Player” Jaco Pastorius. We listen to different phases of Jaco’s one of a kind talent. Hollywood has always said that “Jaco is my favorite Jazz musician of all time”. Ray The Jazz Man said that seeing Jaco perform live with Weather Report “changed my life”. Listen to why Jaco is widely considered one of the GOAT’s.

Songs Include:

1. Donna Lee - Jaco Pastorius
2. Teen Town - Weather Report
3. Olde Hats - Randy Bernsen
4. Intimate Strangers (Suite) Part 3: Loving and Leaving- Tom Scott
5. Califoric - Randy Bernsen
6. John and Mary - Jaco Pastorius

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