Hybrid Jazz From Trish Hennessey - with Joe Sample!

Joe Sample has been making music all his life. We have known that music for over forty years, but the roots of his raising go back to his Texas home - when he would play for his Mamas after-Church teas. The feel of the keyboard became a second skin and heroes danced in his head... like Scott Joplin, Jelly Roll Morton, and a fellow that his Dad mentioned in his World War 1 stories: James Reese Europe. Joe was enchanted. This fellow had come from Harlem - and entered Paris in 1918 as part of the famous fighting 369th unit. The first Jazz big band leader. This didnt escape Joe Samples memory or dreams for the future. Texas Southern University. Friends that shared a dream - trombonist Wayne Henderson, tenor saxman Wilton Felder, and Stix Hooper on drums. The Jazz Crusaders patterned themselves after Art Blakeys Jazz Messengers, sans trumpet. And they readied themselves for the move that would change their Lone Star State lives - they moved to L.A. Yes, it would take from now until late tomorrow to tell you the WHOLE story - some of it you know. Joe made the move from acoustic piano to electric - a pioneer in that regard. Jazz Crusaders became The Crusaders. And the funk merged with the Jazz and Soul and the world became gold and platinum. There was solo work, and break-ups. And reunions. And sessions with Joni, Gaye, Minnie, Tina and so many others. Record company dictates and depression and change and wondering aloud about the music that brought him so much success - and was it worth it? We have had a discussion with this Legend about these very subjects - and well see how he feels now - two years after that last interview on "Cool Jazz Conversations." How will Joe perceive his journey now? Join us on Tuesday, 9/25, and discover the life and times of Jazz Legend, Joe Sample.

Texas