Author Archives: The Independent Ear

The Tip: To Label or Not to Label

Posted on June 10, 2009 by The Independent Ear

Last Sunday a remarkable concert of new compositions was presented by DC-based drummer-percussionist Nasar Abadey as part of the in-motion Duke Ellington Jazz Festival (now through June 15; check www.dejazzfest.com).  Nasar preceded his "Diamond in the Rough" suite, which displayed his first … Continue reading →

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The Official Word on JazzTimes magazine

Posted on June 9, 2009 by The Independent Ear

This communique was sent out yesterday on the critical state of JazzTimes magazine…   For freelance writers and photographers, this means that any new assignments are pending and that payments for previous assignments remain in limbo, as the JazzTimes ownership … Continue reading →

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Ancient Future the radio program: Playlist for 6/4/09

Posted on June 4, 2009 by The Independent Ear

Ancient Future the radio program hosted & produced by Willard Jenkins airs Thursdays from 5:00-8:00am on WPFW 89.3 FM, Pacifica Radio for the Washington metro area, the 50,000 watt station for Jazz & Justice. Artist Tune Album Title Label   … Continue reading →

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Ain’t But a Few of Us: How black jazz writers persevere

Posted on May 21, 2009 by The Independent Ear

A brief conversation with A.B. SPELLMAN…  the first in a series with African-American writers who chronicle serious music…   Despite the historic origins of this music called jazz, a unique development of the African experience in America, the ranks of … Continue reading →

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African Rhythms anecdote #6: Tales of Randy Weston

Posted on May 21, 2009 by The Independent Ear

On April 23 one of the highlights of a wonderful NEA Jazz Masters evening at Tri-C JazzFest with Roy Haynes’ Fountain of Youth Band and Randy Weston came during Randy’s rare solo piano performance to open the program.  As he often … Continue reading →

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