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How Oscar Peterson Developed His Unmistakable Piano Sound

How Oscar Peterson Developed His Unmistakable Piano Sound

Explore the unique genius of jazz pianist Oscar Peterson and the blend of classical power, blues soul, and bebop innovation that built his inimitable sound.

How Bud Powell Created Revolutionary Jazz Amid Years of Institutionalization

How Bud Powell Created Revolutionary Jazz Amid Years of Institutionalization

The story of why jazz piano genius Bud Powell was a phantom at his own coronation is a heartbreaking look at the price of brilliance.

How Mel Tormé and Marty Paich Created a Landmark West Coast Jazz Collaboration

How Mel Tormé and Marty Paich Created a Landmark West Coast Jazz Collaboration

In 1956, Mel Tormé defied his record label to create a jazz masterpiece that would redefine his career and become a landmark of West Coast cool.

How Fats Domino and Dave Bartholomew Turned “Ain’t That a Shame” Into a Crossover Landmark

How Fats Domino and Dave Bartholomew Turned “Ain’t That a Shame” Into a Crossover Landmark

The story behind the tense recording session for "Ain't That a Shame," where a creative clash almost kept a rock and roll classic from being made.

How “Down Hearted Blues” Turned Bessie Smith Into a Recording Star

How “Down Hearted Blues” Turned Bessie Smith Into a Recording Star

A look into the surprising history of Bessie Smith's breakout 1923 hit, 'Downhearted Blues,' and how it transformed American music forever.

How Benny Goodman Created One of the Swing Era’s Most Distinctive Sounds

How Benny Goodman Created One of the Swing Era’s Most Distinctive Sounds

Explore the unique combination of personal virtuosity, demanding leadership, and groundbreaking collaborators that made Benny Goodman's sound inimitable.

Why Roy Orbison Temporarily Quit Performing Before “Only the Lonely”

Why Roy Orbison Temporarily Quit Performing Before “Only the Lonely”

Before he was a legend, Roy Orbison was a struggling artist who nearly gave up. This is the story of his wilderness years and his comeback.

A 30th Anniversary Celebration Became a Massive Madison Square Garden Event

A 30th Anniversary Celebration Became a Massive Madison Square Garden Event

These events were designed to honor Michael Jackson's three decades as a solo artist, a career that began with his first solo single, "Got to Be Th...

5 Films Bill Evans Fans Should Put on Their Watchlist

5 Films Bill Evans Fans Should Put on Their Watchlist

For fans of Bill Evans' introspective jazz, here are five films that capture the same mood of melancholy, cool, and complex beauty.

Richard Manuel’s Difficult Final Years With The Band

Richard Manuel’s Difficult Final Years With The Band

An exploration of the life and struggles of Richard Manuel, the soulful voice of The Band, whose artistry clashed with the pressures of the music industry.

How Getting Ready... Helped Freddie King Reach a New Rock Audience

How Getting Ready... Helped Freddie King Reach a New Rock Audience

In 1971, blues legend Freddie King defied industry skepticism to create 'Getting Ready...', a landmark album that redefined his career and influenced generations.

On This Day: Paul Anka Turned a Teenage Crush Into the Classic Hit Diana

On This Day: Paul Anka Turned a Teenage Crush Into the Classic Hit Diana

Paul Anka's iconic 1957 hit, "Diana," is more than just a catchy tune; it's a product of a specific creative moment and a collaborative recording p...