Claim OwnershipThe Sauce with Dawn Burns
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‘The Sauce’ captures the journey of arts, music and culture creators
52 Episodes
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Join host Dawn Burns on The Sauce for a dynamic conversation with two musical powerhouses: BJ Leiderman, the iconic composer behind NPR’s most recognizable theme music, and acclaimed singer-songwriter Kenny White, known for his sharp, soulful storytelling. Together, they share the journeys that shaped their signature sounds—from BJ’s legendary public radio themes to Kenny’s celebrated albums and studio work. Don’t miss this inspiring, music-filled episode with two masters of their craft.
Join host Dawn Burns on The Sauce for an inspiring conversation with April Sellers about the unique mission of Nomad Theatre. April shares the story of Nomad, born from a dinner table idea into a traveling theatre committed to developing and showcasing diverse, often unheard, stories and original works by local Michiana artists. Discover how Nomad is building a home for local creatives and exploring what it means to create "storytelling that moves, literally and emotionally." Tune in to learn more about this innovative approach to community arts and theatre.
Join host Dawn Burns on The Sauce for a vibrant conversation with UZIMA! Drum and Dance, a South Bend–based company founded in 2012 by Kelly Burgèt. Meaning “wholeness, health, and life” in Swahili, UZIMA! lives its name through dynamic performances of West African and Afro-contemporary dance, song, and spoken word. Dawn speaks with founder and artistic director Kelly Burgèt, director Michelle Jewell, and company director Pierre Cooks about community, culture, and how their art inspires joy and connection.
Join host Dawn Burns on The Sauce for a conversation with Kristin Korb — a rare talent who seamlessly combines rich vocals with masterful bass playing. Few can sing and play bass at once, and even fewer do it with such effortless grace. With her crystal-clear voice and deep musicality, Kristin delivers performances that both captivate and inspire. Photo by Sofie Barfoed
Join host Dawn Burns on The Sauce for a conversation with New York–based saxophonist Christopher McBride. A Chicago native, McBride is known for his versatility, collaborating with artists from Roy Hargrove to Solange and Ne-Yo. His 2023 album Ramon reached JazzWeek’s Top 25 and was hailed as “a sonic marvel.” A performer, composer, educator, and curator, McBride continues to expand the reach of jazz through creativity, collaboration, and community.
Join host Dawn Burns on The Sauce for a conversation with South Bend–based singer-songwriter, musician, and somatic therapist Dena Woods. Her music explores healing and human connection, offering space for deep reflection and emotional honesty. As a songwriter, Dena unpacks moments, examines emotion, and studies what it means to be human. Performing both solo and with her band The Dena Woods Project, she recently released a three-song EP, Wrathful Creature, and is currently self-recording her next musical project.
Join host Dawn Burns on The Sauce for a soulful conversation with Montreal-based, British-born singer-songwriter Dawn Tyler Watson, a powerhouse among the international blues elite. Known for her electrifying performances and genre-blending style, Watson infuses Jazz, Soul, and Gospel with an edge that redefines modern Blues. A JUNO Award winner and multiple Maple Blues Award honoree, she’s toured five continents and shared stages with Jeff Healey, Koko Taylor, and Cyndi Lauper.
Join Dawn Burns on The Sauce for a conversation with trumpeter Marques Carroll, an artist who blends a mastery of musical styles to create evocative works that speak directly to the soul. Rooted in the tradition of Black American Music (BAM), Marques challenges and reimagines the boundaries of Blues, Funk, Soul, Neo-Soul, and Hip-Hop—pushing each into new realms of expression.
Join Dawn Burns on The Sauce for a conversation with Lakecia Benjamin, a 5x GRAMMY-nominated New York saxophonist, arranger, composer, and educator. Known for blending R&B, funk, and diverse jazz traditions, Benjamin’s warm, resonant tone has drawn comparisons to Johnny Hodges. She honed her craft with legends like Clark Terry and Terri Lyne Carrington and has accompanied acclaimed vocalists including Gregory Porter and Theo Crocker. Discover the artistry of one of today’s most dynamic voices.
Join Dawn Burns on The Sauce for a powerful conversation with Dr. Emorja Roberson—the first African American to earn a Doctor of Musical Arts in Choral Conducting from the University of Notre Dame. With a focus on African American repertoire and sacred music, Dr. Roberson is now shaping the next generation as Assistant Professor of Music and African American Studies at Oxford College of Emory University. Don’t miss this inspiring story of artistry, scholarship, and legacy.
Join Dawn Burns on The Sauce for a powerful conversation about the groundbreaking documentary The Invisible Player: The Rosemary Sanders Story. Dawn sits down with film creator Dr. Marvin Curtis, producer Chuck Fry, and videographer Ryan Blaske to explore the remarkable life of Rosemary Sanders, the first African American musician in the South Bend Symphony during the 1940s. Hidden from public recognition, her story reveals systemic injustices in American orchestras while inspiring solutions for a more equitable future.
Join Dawn Burns on The Sauce for a conversation with Rafael Chávez y Moreno. Born in Puebla, Mexico, Rafael moved to Goshen, Indiana at fifteen and has since become a pillar of the Michiana music scene. From Spanish rock with Lalo Cura to touring nationally with Kansas Bible Company and supporting acts like Rich Ruth and Anne McCue, Rafael continues to push creative boundaries. Hear about his journey, influences, and his powerful new solo project, Un camino.
Join Dawn Burns for a conversation with Salin, a Thai-born, Canada-based Juno-nominated drummer, producer, and composer. Her music fuses Northeast Thailand’s enchanting sounds with 70’s West African psychedelia, layered in modern soulful production. Exploring identity, spirituality, and humanity—with plenty of fun—Salin crafts a unique, genre-bending sonic journey for listeners.
Join Dawn Burns for a conversation with TSwang, a genre-blending artist redefining sound and soul. With roots in the Midwest and the South, he’s crafted a signature style he calls FunkHop—a bold fusion of R&B, Hip Hop, Soul, and Pop. TSwang’s smooth vocals, hip-hop swagger, funk-driven grooves, and streetwise storytelling come together to create a fresh sound.
Join Dawn Burns for a conversation with Patti Shaffner, a versatile vocalist whose artistry spans Folk, Blues, Jazz, Theater, and Improvisational Singing. A gifted songwriter and seasoned performer, Patti’s music blends thought-provoking lyrics with heartfelt emotion, creating songs that speak to our universal longing for love, hope, and connection. Known for her dynamic stage presence and soulful delivery, she pours her heart into every note, leaving audiences deeply moved. Experience the power and passion of Patti Shaffner’s music on this episode.
Join Dawn Burns for a conversation with acclaimed New York jazz trombonist Conrad Herwig. A four-time Grammy nominee with 28 albums as leader, He has topped DownBeat’s “Jazz Critic’s Poll” three times and performed with legends like Joe Henderson, Horace Silver, and McCoy Tyner. Conrad reflects on his 40-year career, his role with the Mingus Big Band, and his acclaimed “Latin Side” projects.
Join Dawn Burns for a conversation with Monique Burts, aka ‘Mo Gio’—2025 Art & Soul featured artist and visionary wearable artist. With a background in sculpture from Herron School of Art + Design, Monique transforms unconventional materials into stunning runway art. Her work blends costume design, music, choreography, and theatrical storytelling. Experience how she brings sculpture to life through movement, performance, and style on the stage and beyond.
Join Dawn Burns in conversation with vocalist, songwriter, and loop artist Hannah Laine. Her new single “Show Up” leads a five-track solo album that showcases her soulful, piano-driven sound. A Michigan native and Earth Radio member, Hannah blends rich influences into deeply personal music that reflects her roots, voice, and vision.
Join Dawn Burns for an inspiring conversation with Chicago’s own Toiné Houston.More than just an artist, Toiné is a movement—renowned for her razor-sharp lyrics, soul-stirring delivery, and unmistakable voice. Blending hip-hop, spoken word, and live instrumentation, she creates immersive experiences that stay with you. As the visionary behind The ToinéXperiment, she leads a genre-defying fusion band dedicated to challenging norms, uplifting voices, and inspiring change.
Join Dawn Burns for a conversation with Bryan Lubeck, Billboard Magazine’s “Critic’s Choice” artist known for his romantic Spanish guitar fused with smooth urban grooves. With millions of streams and radio plays, Bryan shares insights on his early life, signature style, and how the pandemic shaped his creative journey.
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