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© Hollywood Dawkins and Ray The Jazzman
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"8:30...A Jazz Podcast”: The name of the podcast "8:30” comes from the Grammy Award winning album by the legendary Jazz Super Group Weather Report, that defined Jazz Fusion music back in the early 70’s & 80’s. With Joe Zawinul on Keyboards, Wayne Shorter on Saxophones, Jaco Pastorius on Bass, and Peter Erskine on Drums, Weather Report set a high standard of excellence throughout the Jazz World.
With your podcast hosts, DJ’s Herman “Hollywood” Dawkins and Ray The Jazz Man, these Jazz Music aficionados have spent years researching the music and musicians of the only American Art Form, Jazz!
With your podcast hosts, DJ’s Herman “Hollywood” Dawkins and Ray The Jazz Man, these Jazz Music aficionados have spent years researching the music and musicians of the only American Art Form, Jazz!
73 Episodes
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Steely Dan’s sophisticated blend of jazz harmony, rock grooves, and sharp lyrical storytelling makes them a perfect spotlight for the 8:30 Weekly Jazz Podcast. Hosts Herman Hollywood Dawkins and Ray The Jazzman can dive into the band’s meticulous studio craftsmanship and the musical chemistry behind their timeless sound. From intricate chord progressions to smooth, groove-driven rhythms, their music bridges jazz and popular music in a way few artists have matched. It’s a rich listening experience that rewards both casual fans and serious jazz enthusiasts alike.Songs include :Do It AgainDeacon BluesBabylon SistersGlamour ProfessionPretzel LogicKid CharlemagneAJAWalk Between Raindrops - Donald Fagan
On this week’s episode of 8:30, your hosts Herman “Hollywood” Dawkins and Ray the Jazzman shine a spotlight on the legendary Blue Note vibraphonist Bobby Hutcherson, whose shimmering tone and harmonic daring helped redefine modern jazz. From his groundbreaking sessions in the 1960s to his collaborations with forward-thinking composers, Hutcherson brought both lyricism and edge to every recording. His work balanced avant-garde exploration with deep groove, making albums like Components and Dialogue essential listening for any serious jazz fan. Join us as we celebrate the enduring legacy of an artist who transformed the vibraphone into a voice of limitless expression.Songs Include : 1. The Kicker2. People make The World Go Round3. Maiden Voyage4. Jazz5. Montara6. Hat And Beard - Eric Dolphy7. ’Til Then
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:Flight TimeJeannne - Live At The Half Note CafePlaces And SpacesBlackjackCristo RedentorEstavanico
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 :PoincianaNew RhumbaBellowsThe AwakingGenetic WalkPoinciana - Live In Paris
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 Peaple" Wayne Shorter "Eurydice" Wayne Shorter "Sightseeing" Wayne Shorter "When It Was Now" Wayne Shorter "Port Of Entry" Wayne Shorter "Plaza Real" Wayne Shorter
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 Magic2. Inner City Blues (Make Me Wanna Holler)3. Just the Two Of Us - with Bill Withers4. Let it Flow (For Dr. J)5. Soulful Strut - (Live)6. Black Frost
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"
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:Miles Davis & John Coltrane, So What ( Live From Paris 1960).Jimmy Smith & Wes Montgomery, Call Me.Chick Corea & Herbie Hancock, Homecoming.Art Blakey and The Jazz Messengers, Dat Dere (Live In Toyko Japan 1961).Chick Corea & Gary Burton, Hot House.Les McCann & Eddie Harris, You Got It In Your Soulness (Live At The Montreux Jazz Festival).
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.Songs Include:Count Basie, April In ParisBob Mintzer Big Band, Moonlight Serenade.Christian Mcbride Big Band, Bother Mister.Bob Mintzer Big Band, Christopher Columbus.Roy Hargrove Big Band, Mombo For Roy.Duke Ellington Big Band, Satin Doll.Duke Ellington Big Band, Hello Little Girl.
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. Twinkle2. Dr. Macumba3. The Afterglow4. Heart String5. The Traveler6. It’s So Easy Loving You - Hubert Laws - Earl Klugh7. Master Of Suspense8. Wind And The Sea
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 :II B.S.Theme For Lester Young (Goodbye Pork Pie Hat)Reincarnation Of A LovebirdFables Of FaubusThe Dry Cleaner From Des Moines - Joni MitchellCarolyn Kiki Mingus
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 : Bumpin’ On SunsetAireginWindyFour On SixFull HouseJames And Wes - Jimmy SmithGoin On To Detroit
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 WeatherReport 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 Orchestra2. Captain Fingers - Lee Ritenour3. Hot Fun - Stanley Clarke4. Quadrant 4 - Billy Cobham5. The Magician - Return To Forever6. In A Trance - Hiromi, Anthony Jackson, Simon Phillips7. Herandu - Weather Report8. Ice Cakes - Dixie Dregs9. Five G - Bruford
On this episode of the 8:30 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.Songs Include:1. Angela (Theme From Taxi)2. Nautilus3. Night Crawler4. Xraxse5. Ashanti6. I’ll Never See You Smile Again7. Bare Bones8. James
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 Debby2. My Romance3. The Dolphin4. Gloria’s Step5. You Must Believe In Spring6. Some Other Time7. Nardis8. My Funny Valentine
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"
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 makes the Tone Poet series releases special is the gatefold album covers with there inside jacket photography 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 Tune"
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 saxaphone and Larry Carlton on guitar. The 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 : Fairy TalesEleanor RigbyKeep That Same Old FeelingRhapsody And BluesStreet Life
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 an interview with musician friend on the 8:30 crew Nate Lee discussing his musical career and a blindfold test in this 1st pt. episode on the Crusaders. Songs Include : Freedom SoundPut It Where You Want ItChain Reaction
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:LingusSomethingCliroyEast BayTarovaShofukanChonks - Live
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