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The Jazz Session celebrates its fifth anniversary with one of the giants of the music, saxophonist and composer Jimmy Heath. In this interview, Heath talks about his early days as a writer and arranger; his Queens neighborhood and its importance to jazz history; why he loves the sound of a big band; and how he keeps himself moving forward and growing at this stage in his career. He also shares a fax of a 1947 concert poster, received the morning of the interview, with some hilarious text. Learn more at jimmyheath.com.
CONTEST: I’m giving away 55 CDs to celebrate the 5th anniversary of The Jazz Session. Listen to the show to learn how to win.
jason,
First of all, Happy Anniversary! Second, Happy 350th! Here’s to many, many more!
I’m quite pleased you talked with Mr. Heath, a gentleman and musical giant. We’ve seen him play numerous times, mostly with the Heath Brothers Band – his brother “Tootie” is not only a wonderful player but gives Roy Haynes serious competition in the “snappy dresser” department.
Keep on keeping on,
Richard
Great episode. Jimmy Heath is a giant among giants. And he’s still incredibly hip.
Thanks, Richard. I think I’ve only seen Jimmy live once, at a Heath Brothers show at the Blue Note in about 1993. I was with a group of tourists from the small town where I’d lived in Japan, and they wanted to go to the Blue Note.
And thanks, Matt, for the kind words.
Heath’s free vocal improvisation at 58:50 was pretty awesome, even if he was making fun of the genre. Would be a great ring tone.
Hah! Great point!