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Showing posts with the label Archie Shepp: Insights from Portland Jazz Festival

What an incredible and historic Interview with Archie Shepp: Insights from Portland Jazz Festival

In an age where musical legends still walk among us, the interview with Archie Shepp by Ashley Kahn on February 22, 2020, at the Portland Jazz Festival stands out as an incredible piece of history. For anyone interested in the roots of black music, and indeed all music, this interview is an absolute joy. It provides a profound look into the life and career of one of jazz's most influential figures. Archie Shepp, the renowned saxophonist and vocalist, performed that evening with his exceptional quartet, featuring Lafayette Harris on piano, Avery Sharpe on bass, and Ronnie Burrage on drums. Shepp's reflections during the interview offered a deep dive into his musical journey, touching on the elements of surprise and creativity that define jazz. His voice, both in song and speech, carries the weight of decades of experience and innovation. Taking us through his early years, Shepp shared how his experiences at Goddard College in Vermont shaped his approach to music. His exposure to