A long way from the block

My guest for this episode is flautist, vocalist, and composer Naïssam Jamal. Born in Paris to Syrian parents, she entered a conservatory at age six to study classical flute. We discuss her early life in Paris and issues surrounding her cultural background; she talks about her experiences in the conservatory and her subsequent travels throughout the Middle East and Africa. Master musicians whom she's met along the way have been major influences. Her latest album is Souffles, French for “breaths.” It's composed of eight pieces, all duets, and features jazz saxophone legend Archie Shepp. Join us. https://naissamjalal.com

In this episode, I talk with the talented trumpeter, composer, and arranger Milena Casado. Born and raised in Spain, she's a graduate of the Berklee College of Music, where she honed her skills working with amazing teachers. She shares about growing up in a small village town, looking different from other members of that community; about meeting her father for the first time; about getting in touch with her Dominican roots; and about her acceptance to Berklee. We also discuss the major influence of her mentor, drummer extraordinaire Terri Lyne Carrington, and dive into her album Reflection of Another Self, a stunning debut that's a deeply personal journey of self-discovery and resilience. https://www.milenacasado.com

In this episode, I talk with Ankh West, a science advocate who focuses on scientific literacy within the African-American community. Science, he explains, can be a tool for promoting rigorous academic standards within institutions. He talks about the importance of peer-reviewed scholarship, archaeological data, and linguistic research. Among his primary focuses of research are ancient Egypt, Nubia, and Nile Valley civilizations. He discusses in some depth the work of Charles Darwin and other major figures in the field, as well as Africa's early influence on what we now recognize as modern science. Lastly, Ankh shares some of the books that shaped his thought and why he considers those books to be still valid and important today. 

I had the pleasure of recording this episode inside the Nate Holden Performing Arts Center, in L.A., hometown of the talented Wren T. Brown. Wren is an actor, film producer, and theater director, who cofounded the Ebony Repertory Theatre (ERT). We talk in-depth about what that company has meant to him and how it has affected an entire community in a positive way. Influenced by the likes of his great uncle Lester Young, black excellence shaped his life and is the subject of his new book, The Family Business: Four Generations of One Black Family's Artistic Odyssey. (Friend and jazz giant Wynton Marsalis wrote the foreword.) https://thefamilybusinessbook.com

For this episode, I sat down with the young lion Kahlil Childs, an alto saxophonist and multi-reedist who leads his own quartet here in San Diego. At 15, he has already made a name for himself on the local jazz scene. We met to discuss why jazz was the path he discerned for himself, and how learning about jazz legends has inspired him to continue his journey. We talk about what it's like to study under jazz master and alto saxophonist Charles McPherson and Grammy Award-winning producer and U.C. San Diego professor Kamau Kenyatta. He shares his experience of growing up with two present, educated, socially conscious parents and how that has influenced him. He names his current favorite jazz artists and describes the experience of playing with some of his heroes. Lastly we discuss his quartet and where he sees himself in the future, most likely attending a jazz conservatory on the East Coast. https://kahlilchilds.com

In this episode, I talk with Dr. Kamau Rashid, professor and director of the Kemetic Institute of Chicago. We speak in detail about the importance of African and African-American history and its power to transform the lives of younger generations, and he references the historians and intellectuals who were his own forebears and inspirations. We discuss Nile Valley civilizations, West African history, the Caribbean Islands, Haiti, and the Americas. Dr. Rashid then becomes my first respondent to rapid-fire interviewing, fielding questions about various authors, activists, poets, historians, and scholars. This is the first installment of a series of discussions on black history, with more to come. 

South African bassist, composer, and arranger Herbie Tsoaeli is affectionately known, in certain circles, as Malume, a term of respect for older men who serve as elders. In this episode, we discuss his origins and inspiration. He was raised in Cape Town during the 1976 Soweto Uprising and describes the effects of Apartheid on his development. His parents, wanting him to be a doctor, were initially disappointed by his musical path, but he found himself called by legends like Coltrane and Abdullah Ibrahim. He talks in-depth about playing with some of the greatest South African musicians: Bucs Gongco, Winston Mankunku Ngozi, Hugh Masekela, Bheki Mseleku, and many others. Before parting, we discuss his concept of the term "African Time" and its many meanings.. https://herbietsoaeli.com

Liza Jessie Peterson's parents provided her with a grounding that allowed her, she says, to teeter at the edge of the cliff but never jump. The artist, activist, poet, playwright, and actor had early success as a model but discovered it wasn't her true path. In this episode, she shares how her writing career began with journaling and poetry, eventually leading to her performing and honing her skills at the famous Nuyorican Poets Cafe. We discuss in detail her memoir, All Day: A Year of Love and Survival Teaching Incarcerated Kids at Rikers Island. We also dive into her one-woman play, The Peculiar Patriot, performed at more than 35 prisons across the country and resulting in her documentary Angola Do You Hear Us? Voices From a Plantation Prison. Lastly, we talk about her passion for ancient Egyptian history and culture, which inspired her to take a life-changing trip to visit the temples and pyramids.https://www.lizajessiep.com

Professor Zahalea Anderson is a second-generation student of Sanuces Ryu JuJitsu System and founder of RA Life Defense. We recently met at her makeshift outdoor studio, at Bluff Park in Long Beach, to discuss her upbringing and martial arts journey. Anderson learned from her father, Grand Master Urban Muhammad, who was a first-generation student of the legendary Dr. Moses Powell. She talks about the importance she places on incorporating African history and culture in her teaching. She discusses losing her dojo during the George Floyd uprising, and the loss of her husband. Her life experiences are central to her work; we discuss that, and how she fosters mutual respect with her students.

For this too-short conversation, I sat down with Romeo Regalli, chef and co-owner of Ras Plant Based, located in Brooklyn and New York's West Village. We discussed his upbringing in Ethiopia, embedded in family and community. He described his sense of purpose to make the world healthier and happier one meal at a time, the core of his work, and we dished about his restaurant's original Brooklyn location and its new location in the West Village. From menu to decor, his approach to plant-based Ethiopian cuisine is unique and creative. Romeo's partner in Ras is his wife, Milka Regalli.https://www.rasplantbased.com

In this inspiring episode, I talk with South African rebel singer Thandiswa Mazwai, discussing her upbringing in Soweto, South Africa, during the Apartheid era. Her memories of the violence that took place are vivid. She recalls experiencing a great sense of freedom upon Nelson Mandela's release from prison and describes meeting South African legends Miriam Makeba and Hugh Masekela, who would become her close friends and mentors. Mazwai's musical influences include Fela Kuti, Grace Jones, and UK punk band Skunk Anansie. Her parents, who were activists, had made her read books like Frantz Fanon's Wretched of the Earth. Her latest album is Sankofa, co-produced by Meshell Ndegeocello and fellow South African musician Nduduzo Makhathini; we talk about the experience of working with them. Our conversation wraps with the recollection of her 2005 performance at the legendary Apollo Theater in Harlem.https://thandiswa.comhttps://www.patreon.com/c/ALONGWAYFROMTHEBLOCKPODCAST

Derrick Banks is the owner and operator of Freshly Faded Barber + Shop in North Park, San Diego. Coming up, he was mentored by local barbers such as those at Gentry's, part of the San Diego scene for over sixty years. In this conversation we start by discussing his upbringing and the standards his parents set for him. Black history and culture were always important. Banks studied with the Earth Center, an organization focused on reconnecting people with their ancient African traditions. Dedicated to creating something more than a mere barbershop, he hosts after-hours poetry readings and discussions as well as monthly men's meetings. Our conversation wraps with a discussion of his role as artist and how he reflects that in his attire.https://www.freshlyfaded.com

This year marks the 25th anniversary of Rux Revue, the groundbreaking debut album by Carl Hancock Rux. Not long ago, we sat down for an in-depth discussion about his hands-on involvement in its making, from bringing in his own background singers to recording the powerful song "I Recall" in a bathroom, for the acoustics. We talked through the album track by track, enriching their meaning with context. Rux's adoptive parents were “amateur musicologists,” and his friendships and connections include Nona Hendryx, Sonia Sanchez, Amiri Baraka and Abbey Lincoln. Rux also has an abiding love for Billie Holiday, which he touched on. Lastly we discussed his emotional trip to Ghana years ago and the love and support he got from the community there. http://carlhancockrux.com

In this latest episode, I talk with South African saxophonist and composer Linda Sikhakhane, who honors and pays homage to the great elders and master musicians, including Brian Thusi. Sikhakhane, who was raised in Umlazi township, talks about the cultural aspects of being Zulu and the importance of preserving his culture. He shares about his time attending The New School, learning from the likes of Billy Harper and Reggie Workman; he touches on his relationship with mentor and fellow South African Nduduzo Makhathini, a jazz pianist. African cosmology is discussed. Finally we land on his latest album, iLadi, available now on Blue Note Records.https://lindasikhakhane.com

After seeing Grammy-winning pianist and composer Kris Davis, live at the Village Vanguard, I knew I wanted to sit down with her and dive into jazz. Here we discuss her philosophy of improvisation and her energy and passion for performing live. The Canadian-born artist fell in love with jazz at an early age, studied jazz piano at the University of Toronto, and cites the legendary Don Pullen as a major influence. Along the way, as she shares, she's played with innovative performers such as J.D. Allen, Dave Holland, Terri Lyne Carrington, Tyshawn Sorey, and John Zorn. Before our conversation winds down, we talk albums and which speak to her the most.

In my first-ever interview with an audience, I sat down with Lynel Allen III for the third installment of “The seat of my soul.” We revisited topics from our prior conversations (Episodes 79 and 81) while discussing his childhood in greater depth. He touched on personal issues such as his heavy drug use, the loneliness of incarceration, and when he decided to turn his life around. Finally, we discussed his current “Bounce Back” recovery program, which helps formerly incarcerated persons adjust to life after prison.

To celebrate the 100th episode of this podcast, a podcast inspired by the concept of roots, I offer you a tribute to Highland Park. In San Diego, when I was young, this park was Mecca—the place where kids met every day after school and for entire summers. The friendships I forged there lasted; most, I still call friends today. For this episode I called on peers and on the OG's we looked up to, who showed us the way. Together we share stories about what we learned there. The late 80s brought drugs and gang culture, and with that, the whole neighborhood was changed. But I remember the paradise it was, and others do, too. Here, we offer that to you. Volume 2 is scheduled for summer 2025. Enjoy.

Azikiwee Anderson founded his San Francisco bakery, Rize Up, as a way to heal. In the wake of George Floyd's murder, Anderson began channeling his feelings one loaf at a time in his home kitchen; from there he became a household name in the city's sourdough movement. In this episode, we discuss his humble beginnings, his mother's profound influence, his logo, and the power of imagery. “Z,” as his staff calls him, freely shares his determination to make a difference. If he can inspire black bakers to think outside the box, Rize Up and the wild yeasts populating his starter will have changed the world!https://rizeupsourdough.com

I recently had the opportunity to sit down with Corcoran Holt before his performance with the Kenny Garrett group, at the world-famous Blue Note. The jazz bassist, composer, and educator discussed the early influences of African drum and dance and learning about African culture from his parents. We also talked about djembe player Mamady Keïta's influence on the drumming scene in DC; meeting and connecting with Kenny Garrett; and his musical relationship with jazz drummer Kweku Sumbry. Lastly, we considered the significance of his song "Raven's Wing," from his album THE MECCA.https://www.corcoranholt.com

In 1984, Bishop Cornelius Bowser experienced a major transition: he decided to leave gang- and street-life behind and turn his life over to Christ. In this episode, we talk about the years that preceded and the years that followed that momentous decision. We cover his growing up in The Coast—a neighborhood in San Diego that was the home of the West Coast Crips, the gang he was heavily involved with in the 70s and early 80s—and the process of opening his own church. Drawing on his roots and his sense of mission, he worked with local gang members and became involved in several intervention programs, becoming a certified drug prevention specialist along the way. Finally, we discuss his current work, including No Shots Fired and Seasons of Peace, both focused on gun violence prevention.https://www.corneliusbowser-gangs.com

In this episode, I talk with DJ Nu-Mark, world-renowned producer, turntablist, and member of the legendary hip-hop group Jurassic 5. He has a brand-new cookbook/memoir out, called Amu Nu. In describing the book, he offers some stories about his beloved mother and extended family, and we talk about how it all came together. He also touches on his time in Jurassic 5, and we bond over our love for comedy and our favorite comedians.https://djnu-mark.com

Prior to her performance at Dizzy's Club, I had the pleasure of talking with Lebanese-Canadian drummer, composer, producer, and educator Sanah Kadoura. This week's episode encompasses that conversation. We discuss the Arabic and popular American music that was prevalent during her growing up in Calgary, Canada. Sanah talks about her role as an artist and musician, and how she came to understand that her work involves more than just playing music. Her jazz journey was informed by masters of the craft. She discusses her work as a contribution in the midst of current world events. Lastly, she describes her latest album, "Duality."https://sanahmusic.com

In this episode, I sat down with Brooklyn's own Tayo and Cynthia Giwa, the husband and wife filmmaking team and creators of Black-Owned Brooklyn. Their current documentary, “The Sun Rises in The East,” is streaming now on Amazon Prime. We talked in detail about the filmmaking process and the vital role that current elders play in preserving black history and culture. They discussed the standards in place during their upbringings, in their households, and why a film such as theirs is so necessary now: it shows what potential can look like when a group of like-minded people come together to display black excellence.The subject of the film, The East, was cofounded by educator and activist Jitu Weusi. It embodied black self-determination, building dozens of institutions, including its own African-centered school, food co-op, newsmagazine, publishing company, record label, restaurant, clothing shop, and bookstore. https://www.sunrisesintheeast.com

In this episode, we celebrate the legendary Los Angeles community leader, mentor, jazz pianist, and composer Horace Tapscott. Among my guests are former members of the Pan Afrikan Peoples Arkestra, founded by Tapscott in 1961, and others who appreciate his contributions to the culture. Tune in to hear poets Kamau Daáood and Anthony Joseph; saxophonists Abraham Burton, Michael Session, and Steve Lehman; former Eso Won Books co-owner James Fugate; pianist Eric Reed; bassist Roberto Miranda; and author Steven Isoardi. Myka 9 of Freestyle Fellowship delivers the intro. 

In this episode, we celebrate the legendary Los Angeles community leader, mentor, jazz pianist, and composer Horace Tapscott. Among my guests are former members of the Pan Afrikan Peoples Arkestra, founded by Tapscott in 1961, and others who appreciate his contributions to the culture. Tune in to hear poets Kamau Daáood and Anthony Joseph; saxophonists Abraham Burton, Michael Session, and Steve Lehman; former Eso Won Books co-owner James Fugate; pianist Eric Reed; bassist Roberto Miranda; and author Steven Isoardi. Myka 9 of Freestyle Fellowship delivers the intro. 

For this episode, I sat down with a former Hoover High basketball backcourt teammate. Back then, he went by Keith Williams; later in life, he changed his last name to Barksdale, in recognition of his biological father. Together we reminisced about our time in high school and his stellar career as one of the best overall athletes ever to play at Hoover, following his arrival in San Diego from Kentucky at age 15. He talked about his brief stint in the Army and how he returned to fitness, personal training, and athletics. Keith is a self-taught tennis player who eventually became a full-time tennis coach, teaching and coaching his daughter, a back-to-back CIF Singles champion. His daughter is now a college player, planning to pursue the WTA after graduation. Keith has his own clothing line, Top Bark Apparel, and recently co-authored a book, Behind The Mirror - 24 Exceptional Men Volume 2.   

While traveling on the East Coast, I stopped by the Jersey City apartment/studio of jazz drummer and composer Nic Cacioppo, to discuss his jazz journey. In this interview, he talks about the influence of his parents, both classically trained musicians. Nic has been blessed to play with jazz greats like Slide Hampton, Gene Perla, Wallace Roney, David Murray, and Tyshawn Sorey. I ask him about his relationship with tenor saxophonist JD Allen, with whom he's played and recorded for several years, and what it's like being a member of JD's band. Nic describes his approach to playing the drums and the fire he brings to his live performances. Lastly, he talks about the influence of the legendary jazz drummer Papa Jo Jones, and what his playing style has meant to him.

Myka 9 is one of the most prolific MCs of all time. In this interview, he talks in depth about the components of thought and influence that shape his rhyme style. His entire approach is inflected with jazz, with random sounds sparking melodies and harmonies. These are overlaid and interwoven with an extensive vocabulary. In 2022 the folks at Medium found that Myka 9 has the largest and most unique vocabulary in hip hop history. Myka discusses the importance of reading everything from the Bible and the Bhagavad Gita to books on African history. He reminisces about a pivotal point in his rapping career, when he opened up for some hip hop legends on the East Coast. Lastly, he shares news of an upcoming Freestyle Fellowship project. 

Dr. T. Ford is a venerable elder in San Diego. As part of my series dedicated to documenting elders, we sat down together to discuss her upbringing—how her parents showed her at an early age what black excellence looked like, and how she carries their influence and example in all she does. (Her great-great grandmother, who shared her own wisdom, lived to be 109.) We discussed Dr. T. Ford's contributions to communities both local and nationwide, including her involvement with the Black Storytellers of San Diego; Rite of Passage; and the former Fanno Academy School. In addition to possessing expertise as a grant writer, she has worked as an activist and organizer. She shared about her journey to achieve her Juris Doctor, and the relevance of the law to her other endeavors. Lastly, we touched on her relationship with Sister Helen Prejean, a leading voice for death penalty abolition and the author of Dead Man Walking.

For this episode, I sat down with two incredible ultra-runners: Hannibal Smith, who has appeared on this podcast before and is a trainer and co-owner of NXPT Fitness; and Regina Peters, who is also a trainer at NXPT and, like Hannibal, has competed in 100-mile marathons. Together we discussed the preparations involved in taking on the Spartan Race, Deka, Hyrox, and many others. They described the physical and mental exertions of racing, including hallucinations, cramps, and major body pain. They talked about being African-American ultra-runners and how they hope to inspire and teach young African-Americans about resilience and perseverance. Lastly, they both shared their philosophies of success within grueling challenges. Although their perspectives on success differ somewhat, each expressed that once they start a race, they would rather die than quit. https://www.nxptfit.com

In this episode, I sat down with Layli Long Soldier in her Albuquerque studio to talk about her upbringing. I spoke with the Oglala Lakota poet, writer, artist, and activist about some of the history of broken treaties experienced by Native peoples. We discussed the 2022 documentary "Lakota Nation vs. United States," a film in which she plays a major role, and her response to the 2009 U.S. Congressional apology to all Native peoples. We talk about the craft of poetry and her approach to writing. Lastly, we discuss her latest book of poetry, titled "Whereas."

In this episode, I talk with John Williams about his unique approach to coaching, training, and mentoring athletes. At the core of his teaching is the Hippocratic oath. He discusses how he adapts and adjusts to various athletes from different athletic discipline, including NFL players, ballerinas, and even exotic dancers. He touches on his approach to building trust among his students, and how that helps him reach students with more complicated backgrounds. We land, at the end, on tennis and some of its current stars, including Novac Djokovic, Rafael Nada and current US Open champion Coco Gauff. 

Tongo Eisen-Martin is the current Poet Laureate of San Francisco, his hometown. He's also an educator and an activist. We talk about the influence of his activist mother and the role she played in his life. Tongo discusses major issues in the city, including gentrification, homelessness, and mass incarceration, all of which have impacted his writing. Tongo speaks about poet Marc Bamuthi Joseph, an important figure on the scene as he came up, and Thich Nhat Hanh, another vital influence on his life and work. Finally, we share our appreciation of John Coltrane.

To mark the release of his new album, THIS, I sit down with tenor saxophonist and composer JD Allen. We talk extensively about what went into making the album, the musicians he chose for the project, and the meanings behind some of its track titles. JD also explains why incorporating electronics was vital to the album's sound. We discuss THIS's bold album cover, designed by his longtime collaborator, Rebecca Meek. Tracks like "The Revelator," "Boom-Bap," "Beeyondsay," and—my personal favorite —"The Knight of Swords" are discussed. THIS, from Savant Records, is available now on all platforms.https://bnatural.nyc/artists/jd-allen/

In this episode, I talk with Tamar Greene, who plays George Washington in the current Broadway production of "Hamilton." We discuss his upbringing in Rochester, NY, and—thanks to his parents—his early exposure to the arts. His Jamaican-born father—Ras Courtney, a well known reggae DJ—helped shape him musically and influenced his appreciation for culture, history, and cooking. From 90s hip-hop to opera, Greene's background has been an asset to his theater career. He describes in detail his long, arduous "Hamilton" journey, starting with his first auditions. Finally, he talks about his involvement in the "Hamilton" racial justice task force, Ham4Progress.https://www.tamargreene.com

For this episode, I sat down with the Jazzcat himself, LeRoy Downs, to talk about all things jazz. Born and raised in LA, listening to KDAY, it wasn't until he saw artists like Roy Hargrove and Terence Blanchard that he was pulled into the music that changed his trajectory. Traveling back in time, he took a deep dive into the history of the music and its founders. We talk about the dues he paid on his journey to becoming a radio host, and how seeing DJ Red Alert at Hot 97 showed him how seriously he needed to take his craft. He shares how he creates his playlist, meeting listener expectations while giving airtime to lesser known, but no less important, musicians. Lastly, we discuss his connection and collaboration with trumpeter Chief  aTunde Adjuah and his contribution to the culture.https://www.kcrw.com/music/shows/leroy-downs

In my follow-up interview with Lynell Allen, we talk about his growing up on the Coast and spending time at the local rec center and boys' club. We delve into his father's influence and the time Allen spent with adults starting at a very early age. He offers an honest appraisal of prison life and advice to those coming up about the prison system. Lastly, we discuss several of the most important people in his life, who have seen him through trials and tribulations and supported his great work as a mentor and community activist.

In  this episode, I join jazz bassist, composer, and bandleader Omer Avital in his beautiful, intimate studio in Brooklyn, NY. Born in Givatayim, Israel, to Moroccan and Yemeni parents, Omer studied classical guitar from age 11 before eventually shifting to acoustic bass. We talk about his 1992 arrival in New York, where he shook up the city playing in groups with jazz legends Roy Haynes, Jimmy Cobb, Kenny Garrett, and Rashied Ali. We discuss his musical influences and the importance of learning about the elders and jazz masters who paved the way for him, as well as politics in the Middle East and how he views it all as an artist. Lastly we consider the Brooklyn oasis he created called Wilson Live. Founded in 2018, Wilson Live provides a platform that enables local artists to document and present their work in an easy and effective way, all while forming a musical community in the heart of the borough. Wilson Live hosts weekly musical happenings with great homemade food by its culinary curator, Yoav Adereth.https://www.omeravital.com

In this episode, I sit down with one of the greatest Pop Warner running backs of all time, as well as one of the best pop lockers in San Diego history and an OG from the West Coast Crips. We discuss his upbringing, his dad's influence, and the tension he felt between sports and the pull of the streets. We talk about gang culture and the way it robbed him of his youth. His long battle with substance use and his nearly thirty years, off and on, of incarceration were also a focus of conversation, along with a near-death experience he had when he was shot five times at point-blank range. Lynell shares how he turned his life around and found numerous ways to give back to the place he calls home, as a group facilitator, a change agent, the founder of Speak On It Recovery, and a community activist.This interview took place at the historical St. Stephen's Church of God in Christ

In this episode, I sit down with Steve Lehman, visionary alto saxophonist and composer, to discuss his project "Ex Machina," a collaboration with the grammy-nominated Orchestre National de Jazz (ONJ). We talk in detail about his approach to composing and how the process varies according to the size of the group he's composing for—big bands versus quartets—and how he writes for other musicians so that they can shine while leaving space for his own solos. We compare classical to jazz and their differing approaches to improvisation, as well as improv in general, exemplified in his latest work, an interweaving of forms and patterns. Last but not least, we discuss his musical influences, including trombonist George Lewis and alto saxophonist Jackie McLean, with whom he studied for several years."Ex Machina" releases September 15, 2023MUSICIANS-Steve Lehman - alto saxophone, electronicsJonathan Finlayson - trumpetChris Dingman - vibraphoneMembers of Orchestre National de JazzFrédéric Maurin - direction, electronicsFanny Ménégoz - flute, alto flute, piccoloCatherine Delaunay - clarinet, basset hornJulien Soro - tenor saxophone, clarinetFabien Debellefontaine - baritone saxophone, clarinet, fluteFabien Norbert - trumpet, flugelhornDaniel Zimmermann - tromboneChristiane Bopp - tromboneFanny Meteier - tubaBruno Ruder - piano, synthesizerStéphan Caracci - vibraphone, marimba, glockenspiel, percussion, synthesizerRafaël Koerner - drumsSarah Murcia - double bassJérôme Nika - generative electronics creation & artistic collaborationDionysios Papanikolaou - IRCAM electronicshttps://www.stevelehman.com/

In this episode, I interview Chicago-based investigative journalist Yohance Lacour. Our conversation ranges from his upbringing—books he was given by his parents, the influence of an uncle, and his early awareness of the African-American experience—to his ten-year incarceration for selling drugs. We also discuss his podcast, "You Didn't See Nothin'," a history of a young black boy named Lenard Clark who was beaten into a coma in 1997 for riding his bike into a white neighborhood. The podcast, part investigation and part memoir, reviews the case and the complex characters involved.https://invisible.institute/yohance-lacourhttps://www.yjlacour.comhttps://www.withanthonythomas.com

During this episode I sat sown with local San Diego film maker Rose Sanchez to do my first ever collaboration interview.  We go back and forth interviewing each other. She recently graduated from SDSU as a film studies major so I asked her several questions about  why she wants to be a film director, her inspirations and future goals. She asked me about three of the major components of my podcast, jazz music, documenting the stories of the elders and honoring my neighborhood, specifically Highland Park.  

In this episode I sat down with Jahsun Edmonds aka Oluwo Ifakolade, head priest of Idin Kaa Ifa Temple in Los Angeles. We discussed  his recent journey to Nigeria for the World Ifa Orisha Festival.  He explains  the importance of traveling to the homeland of Yoruba culture and what it was like to experience sacred sites, festivals and rituals. Jahsun explains  the meanings, symbolisms and literalism of some of the various Orishas (spirits that play a key role in the Yoruba tradition).  He talks about how he has taken an ancient African spiritual system and applied it to his community in South Central Los Angeles.  

In this episode I talk with mc's and producers of the hip-hop group NMS (Nephlim Modulation Systems). We discuss they're upcoming album NMS 3- Liberation Is The Only Thing Left. Their two previous albums NMS 1- Woe Thee O' Land Whose King Is A Child 2003 and NMS 2- Imperial Letters Of Protection 2005 are available on all platforms.  We talk in-depth about their very unique sound and what goes into their production, including what type of equipment they prefer.  We also discuss their no compromise approach to being artist and why lyrical content is so important. They both talk about their writing process and how literature, African history and African scholars play a major role in their choice of topics.  Bigg Jus talks about his time as a member of the hip-hop group Company Flow and being part of the classic album Funcrusher Plus, Orko talks about honing his skills in the San Diego hip-hop scene and being part of the group Masters of the Universe

In this episode I traveled to Atlanta, Georgia  for a celebration,  It was Baba Eusi's  98th birthday.  Friends, family, former students and many others who walked with him in the struggle gathered to pay homage to one of Guyana's greatest treasures.  These are their testimonies. Eusi Kwayana, formerly Sydney King (born April 4 1925) in Lusignan, Guyana. A cabinet minister in the People's Progressive Party (PPP) government of 1953. Later he left the PPP to form ASCRIA (African Society for Cultural Relations with Independent Africa), a Pan-Africanist grassroots political group that, after a brief time with the People's National Congress (PNC) of Forbes Burnham, fused into the Working People's Alliance (WPA). In 1956 he founded and became principal of County High School, later renamed Republic Cooperative High School, in Buxton, Guyana.Kwayana met his wife Tchaiko Kwayana (formerly Ann Cook), a Pan-Africanist, and civil rights activist from Georgia, in 1968. She made her transition in 2017.Baba Eusi is a Playwright, poet, author, educator, political songwriter and grassroots organizer. A special thanks to Elder Kadumu Moyenda for the opening libation and Elder Yiriba for the drumming on my introduction. 

In this episode, I sit down with musician, bandleader, professor, and historian Mausiki Scales. We talk about his growing-up years in Gary, Indiana, where he was raised in a household that promoted education and black excellence. He shares what it was like for him, as a teenager, to meet the likes of James Baldwin, Maya Angelou, and Gwendolyn Brooks and the profound effect that had on him later in his life. He went on to meet deep-thinking, impactful professors at Tuskegee University; it was there that he experienced a cultural awakening, and in graduate school at Clark-Atlanta where his love for travel, and especially his time in West Africa, helped him see the world in a different way. We discuss the influence on him of African writer Fu-Kiau, as well as Mausiki's approach to African spirituality and bringing balance to the community. Lastly, we take a deep dive into his musical career and the influence of Fela Kuti and Parliament Funkadelic.https://www.mausikiscalescommonground.com

In this episode, Mestre Roxinho and I discuss his childhood in Bahia, playing soccer and living on the streets. We talk about the strong sense of cultural identity instilled in him by his mother—his first hero and the rock of the family—which helped him navigate the extreme racism in Brazil. Metalworking, not capoeira, was what he learned first from his capoeira mestre. We talk about how they met, and about Roxinho's connection with African spirituality, Candomble specifically. His Capoeira Angola lineage is distinct from the Mestre Pastinha lineage; we talk about how it serves as a social political movement, and how the art of it saved him and showed him a positive way to live his life. He shares about his time teaching in Australia, and where he'd like to see capoeira develop in the future. Recent transgressions of some prominent mestres come into conversation, as does trauma and the process of healing. Finally, we discuss his latest book—Ginga of Resilience. 

In this episode, musician Nduduzo Makhathini and I talk extensively about African spirituality and cosmology and their influence on his creative process. We discuss the effects of apartheid in South Africa and what it was like for him to grow up in racialized townships. American jazz was an early inspiration; we touch on the legends—including Andrew Hill, McCoy Tyner, Don Pullen, Alice Coltrane, and Randy Weston—who continue to inspire him today. Nduduzo delves into how he approaches live performance and why it's important to him to incorporate history, culture, ritual, and chanting in his shows. Lastly, he shares what it's like being signed to the iconic Blue Note label.

A lawyer by trade, Andrea Guerrero approaches the law with an eye toward change. In this episode, she shares how being multilingual and multicultural—she was raised in Mexico—has helped to shape her outlook on life and her work. Guerrero is known in her community as an organizer, someone who walks what she talks and is willing to fight for clients to bring about justice. We discuss one of her most impactful cases, involving Anastasio Hernandez Rojas and what happened on the night of May 28, 2010. We talk about the changes she seeks; her ideas on immigration, border issues, and use of force laws as currently practiced; and some of the ways that we can all make change.Alliance San Diego is a community organization whose mission is to build collective power to create an inclusive democracy. We believe that by working together to engage effectively in the civic process, we can make systemic change and shape a future that belongs to all of us. Watch Ms. Guerrero's TEDx talk  Immigration Reform: A Chance for a Better America.https://www.alliancesd.org

Interdisciplinary artist Brett Cook's current exhibit, at The Yerba Buena Center for the Arts in San Francisco, is profound. In this episode, we talk about the history of some of the installations, including the stunning self-portrait that greets visitors as they enter. Brett explains in detail why and how the show, a collaboration with choreographer Liz Lerman, came to be what it is—the relationships built through interviews with family members of portrait subjects, the deliberate audience engagement. To be an artist in the world, he says, means creating time and space for contemplation and opening oneself to others' experiences. Join us.Cook has received numerous awards, including the Lehman Brady Visiting Professorship at Duke University and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and the Richard C. Diebenkorn Fellowship at the San Francisco Art Institute. Recognized for a history of socially relevant, community engaged projects, he was selected as a cultural ambassador to Nigeria as part of the U.S. Department of State's 2012 smARTpower Initiative and an inaugural A Blade of Grass Fellow for Socially Engaged Art in 2014. Cook's work has been featured in private and public collections including the Smithsonian/National Portrait Gallery, the Walker Art Center, and Harvard University.About the exhibit-At first glance, visual artist Brett Cook and choreographer Liz Lerman are an unlikely match. Although divergent in presentation and aesthetic, both have spent their careers guided by an intuitive desire to forge new paths, reshape their respective fields, and encourage the exploration of artistry as a catalyst for enacting change. This exhibition is the culmination of Cook and Lerman's three-year residency as senior fellows at YBCA, focusing on centering artists as leaders inside the organization and in the communities they serve. Their pairing asks the public to consider the role of an artist within an institution—and in the public sphere—as urgent and responsive.https://www.brett-cook.comhttps://ybca.org

Philadelphia born and Pew Fellowship recipient, King James Britt (his real name) is a 30+ year, producer, composer and performer in the global advancement of electronic music. As a composer and producer, his practice has lead to collaborations with the likes of De La Soul, Madlib, Kathy Sledge, director Michael Mann (Miami Vice) and many others, as well as being called for remixes from an eclectic list of giants, including, Miles Davis, Solange all the way to Calvin Harris & Dua Lipa. Most recently collaborating with MacArthur Fellow recipient , Tyshawn Sorey for their recently released album project. Blacktronika : Afrofuturism In Electronic Music, is a new lecture course at UCSD, created by King, researching and honoring the people of color, who have pioneered groundbreaking genres within the electronic music landscape. Genres span from Chicago House, Detroit Techno and Drum & Bass music. Using his position in the industry, the class has been attended by many, including Questlove, Julian Priester and Flying Lotus. King remains one of the go to authorities on Afrofuturism in music. King Britt was also the original DJ for the Grammy Award winning Digable Planets.