Jazz Currents

Trumpeter and bandleader Miles Davis had a career that spanned over 50 years. He recorded over 100 albums as a leader, and was a primary voice in many of the important developments in jazz history. In the first of five Jazz Currents episodes, Keith Hall celebrates what would have been the 90th birthday of one of the most influential musicians of all time. 

Jazz Currents host Keith Hall talks to a longtime friend, jazz pianist Xavier Davis, a prominent performer, educator, arranger and producer in the world of jazz today.  In his WMUK visit, Davis plays a few requests from Hall, including his own modern standard, "The Message," and Thelonius Monk's "Pannonica." 

Vocalist and bandleader Betty Carter was raised in Detroit and got her big break when she joined Lionel Hampton's band at the age of 18.

Vocalist Abbey Lincoln graduated from Kalamazoo Central High School before landing in New York City, where she began a career spanning six decades.

Jazz Currents is previewing some of the jazz artists that are performing at The Gilmore Keyboard Festival this spring.  This episode features Mr. B, Emily Bear, Sullivan Fortner and Taylor Eigsti.