Milestones: Celebrating the Culture | Deep Dive Conversations with Angélika Beener

Jazz, in particular, has played a central role in this lineage. From John Coltrane’s “Alabama,” to Max Roach and Abbey Lincoln’s We Insist! Freedom Now Suite, from Nina Simone’s “Mississippi Goddamn” to Charles Mingus’ “Fables of Faubus,” jazz has always spoken truth to power. That tradition continues today, ascontemporary jazz musicians compose artistic eulogies for Oscar Grant III, Trayvon Martin, Tamir Rice, Sandra Bland, and George Floyd; celebrate the nation’s first Black president; and reaffirm that “Black Is Beautiful,” more than 60 years after the phrase became a unifying call within the Black PowerMovement. Jazz also chronicled the life and journey of Dr. King in real time, beginning with his emergence as a young preacher and activist in the early 1950s, and has continued to honor his legacy in the decades since his life was cut short. On thisspecial episode of Milestones, we explore the role jazz played inadvancing King’s philosophy and celebrating his extraordinary impact as one of the most consequential leaders in American history with NEA Jazz Master and four-time GRAMMY-winning artist and educator Terri Lyne Carrington, GRAMMY-winning bassist and vocalist Ben Williams, and GRAMMY-nominated pianist and curator Orrin Evans. Together, with host Angélika Beener, they reflect on pieces like Herbie Hancock’s 1969 “I Have a Dream,” and more, examining their cultural impact and role in the musical evolution of jazz. Hip-hop historians T.L. Cross and WBGO’s own Stevan Smith also join the conversation,shedding new light on “King Holiday,” the 1986 hip-hop and R&B anthem that united an ensemble of rising stars—from New Edition and Run-DMC to Whitney Houston and Stephanie Mills. With the late Dexter Scott King at the helm, Kurtis Blow was tasked with assembling a collective to create an anthem for thenext generation – one that would honor Dr. King’s legacy and serve as the soundtrack for the inaugural MLK holiday celebration, 40 years ago. The iconic scholar, author, global thought leader and visionary Dr. Angela Davis joins as a very special guest, offering remarkable insights on this milestone anniversary.

By the 1970s, the legendary pianist-composer Ahmad Jamal had embarked on an exciting new phase in his illustrious seven-decade career. This period included the release of Jamal Plays Jamal, a bold project with intricate orchestration and most notably, all original compositions. On the 50th anniversary of this under-explored yet thoroughly magical album, we're joined by the exceptional pianist, composer, and Harvard professor, Vijay Iyer. We explore the album’s spiritual depth, its brilliant textures, and its impact on the canon of hip hop thru legends like J Dilla, De La Soul and Jay-Z. We also reflect on the pivotal role of the artist during times of uncertainty and possibility.

In the world of music, few names resonate quite like that of Steely Dan. Their third album, Pretzel Logic, released in the winter of 1974, is often cited by critics as one of their finest works, marking a significant evolution in their musical journey. On this episode of Milestones, in celebration of its 50th anniversary, we delve into this landmark album with star guitarist Isaiah Sharkey, one of the most gifted modern guitarists of our time, whose admiration for Steely Dan runs deep.

The family of iconic drummer Max Roach discusses his legacy, contributions to music and culture, and the initiative to co-name a street in Brooklyn in his honor. Roach's five children generously share precious memories, their vision for preserving his legacy, and the importance of respecting and understanding the craftsmanship and excellence their father brought to his art. They also emphasize the need for future generations to learn and build upon his contributions.

Pianist, composer, educator and advocate Bertha Hope-Booker, joins us to discuss her fascinating musical
journey -- including her recording career and her legacy and preservation work. With a career spanning over six decades, we take a deep dive into the early years that brought her
from Los Angeles to New York City, the keys to developing her own sound, the best advice she received from Philly Joe Jones and Johnny Griffin, and her thoughts on being an inspiration to women in jazz.