Independent and jazz music, as well as music history [60s, 70s, 80s], are the interview topics presented by journalist/songwriter Robert Neil.
Most episodes are available as both audio and video podcasts.
Audio podcasts are available on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, TuneIn Radio and all major podcast streaming services.
Video podcasts are available on YouTube
[NOTE: ‘Robert Neil Speaks with…’ replaces the previous podcast ‘Documenting Popular Music.’ Past episodes of DPM are available on the DPM page.]
Episode 002: A conversation about Gordon Lightfoot with noted author Nicholas Jennings
Audio-only edition of the podcast:
Video-enhanced edition of the podcast:
Author and music historian Nicholas Jennings talks with Robert Neil about legendary singer/songwriter Gordon Lightfoot. Jennings wrote ‘Lightfoot’ (Penguin Random House, 2017), the authorized biography of one of Canada’s most revered figures. With full access to the singer, Jennings has captured the most complete look into the singer’s career.
This 16 min. podcast is Part I of a three-part series, and it covers Lightfoot’s early years on Yonge St. and coffee houses in Toronto. There are also stories of Bob Dylan, Ronnie Hawkins, canoeing, drinking and “If You Could Ready My Mind.”
more about Nicholas Jennings and his book ‘Lightfoot’ at www.nicholasjennings.com
Episode 001: Ron Aprea, jazz musician, arranger, author
Big Bands were on their way out when jazz musician Ron Aprea was ready to make his mark on the music scene. However, that didn’t deter the young saxophone player from embarking on a career in that genre. Without a doubt the New York native had talent. His sax playing and instincts were top rate, and eventually his ability to arrange and write charts would grab the attention of his peers.
So, with all that talent and a deep love for big band music, Aprea doggedly became a successful part of the final era of the great big bands. Fittingly, his new autobiography is entitled ‘The Era I Almost Missed,’ and, to borrow a phrase from Dr. Seuss, “Oh, the places he went!”…and the people he met.
He has played major roles in performances with music legends such as Lionel Hampton, Louis Armstrong, Woody Herman, Tito Puente and even rocker John Lennon at the height of his post-Beatle popularity.
In an interview with journalist/songwriter Robert Neil, Aprea talks about his career and how jazz seemed destined to be a part of his life.
The book is available at his website, www.ronaprea.com
