Jazz and Blues Affinity

Is it possible to turn “the arts” into a space to conquer self-doubt and build confidence? What could that look like? Jazz musician and life coach Alicia Olatuja shares her thoughts in today's conversation with Derek Zboran.Learn more about Alicia Olatuja:https://www.aliciaolatuja.com/Check out Jazz and Blues Affinity:https://jazzandbluesaffinity.com/

Alfred Bellanti may be retired from his career, but he has not retired from life or connecting with others! He continues to explore the riches of life as a self-help author and musician. Here he shares seasoned insights about pursuing excellence as a creative-minded individual over the long-term.Learn more about Alfred Bellanti:https://www.bellantienterprises.com/Check out Jazz and Blues Affinity:https://jazzandbluesaffinity.com/

Guitarist and motivational speaker Eddie Weldon talks about pursuing a creative passion, avoiding costly mistakes as a musician, and achieving great things in the arts and beyond!Check out his TikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@eddieweldon?lang=enCheck out Hidden Revealed on Bandcamp:https://hiddenrevealed.bandcamp.com/album/unseenJoin his community on Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100067650091480Learn more about Jazz and Blues Affinity:https://jazzandbluesaffinity.com/

Derek Zboran joins his friend PG Woods of Ace Jackson and the Jump Kings to discuss the various threads that form the rich tapestry of storytelling through music in the United States and beyond. The band he performs in as a bassist has the following motto: "We stole our Grandma’s record collection and learned ‘em all."Check out PG Woods and Ace Jackson and the Jump Kings:https://www.facebook.com/acejacksonandthejumpkings/Check out Boards for Bros:https://boards4bros.org/Check out Jazz and Blu...

Our friend Ben Golder-Novick ("Ben the Sax Guy") returns to Jazz and Blues Affinity for a discussion about the challenges and promises of performing live music. Find Ben and check out his music at the following links:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/benthesaxguy13Buy Me a Coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/benthesaxguy/Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/07LEfydmt5RZpSuNyQcluc

Derek Zboran continues his conversation with Stephanie Patton. In this part of the interview, they discuss the power of listening and connection in jazz music.

Ben Golder-Novick talks with Derek Zboran about being different in the music business and pursuing unique creative interests in music.

Stephanie Patton, jazz vocalist and radio host, joins Derek Zboran for a discussion about human potential and personal expression in jazz music.

Ben Golder-Novick ("Ben the Sax Guy") talks about the opportunity to play with the Dave Matthews Band in Madison Square Garden. Ben also talks about his work with the Postmodern Jukebox and some of his jazz influenced projects currently available on Bandcamp. A theme we kept returning to in this episode is teamwork, and experiencing the synergy of confidence, creativity, and excellence in quality music performance.

Chloe Feoranzo, who has performed with Postmodern Jukebox and the Shake 'Em Up Jazz Band, talks about her experiences recording and touring. She gives us a glimpse into the joys and challenges of being a professional jazz musician.

Chris Gingerich, a business owner in Arizona (USA), talks about how his early pursuit of music in college helped him cultivate confidence, a strong work ethic, and respect for others.

John McCusker, founder and managing director of the 1811/Kid Ory Historic House and author of "Creole Trombone: Kid Ory and the Early Years of Jazz," talks about how he became engaged in jazz research and what it means to create an educational space for learning about jazz and American history.

Chuck Haddix (author, educator, and radio host) shares an insightful insider perspective on the jazz and blues music of Kansas City, Missouri.

Vocalist Angela Verbrugge talks about her journey in beating cancer and pursuing a jazz career later in life, after having pursued jobs in acting and business.

Ray Gallon, New York jazz pianist, shares his personal journey toward finding his own "voice" or "sound" as an artist. He also discusses the role that strong mentors and experienced teachers played in helping him cultivate his musicianship.

Laurie Dapice, New York jazz vocalist, talks about making the journey to a successful debut jazz album.

Each week, Derek Zboran interviews people in the jazz and blues community. These weekly conversations encourage musicians (and advocates of the music) to share personal stories, feelings, and inspirational insights.