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PODCAST

Jazz Flyte Podcast

Welcome to “The Jazz Flyte Podcast, where we will dive into the lives and careers of the Jazz Legends who’ve left a rhythmic imprint on the world. Be prepared each week to reminisce on the highs and the lows of their musical journey, and the trials that sculpted their timeless musical gems. We’ll preserve the legacy of these extraordinary maestros and find inspiration in the melodies of their lives. Subscribe now and never miss a beat!

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All Episodes

35:48

EP 111: The Universal Groove: Will Donato’s Story of...

Jazz Flyte Podcast ·

2025/11/02

On this soulful episode of The Jazz Flyte Podcast, I have the pleasure of welcoming Will Donato, a powerhouse saxophonist, award-winning composer, and dynamic spirit in the smooth jazz world. With a Billboard-charting hit like Grand Slam, a string of collaborations with musical greats like Ricky Lawson, Al McKay, and Gerald Levert, and a long career of live shows and heartfelt music, Will has lived a life steeped in sound and service.Will takes us back to the beginning—how a beat-up saxophone and

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33:50

110: Grant Geissman on the Solo That Defined Smooth Jazz

Jazz Flyte Podcast ·

2025/10/26

On this episode of The Jazz Flyte Podcast, I’m joined by genre-defying guitarist and composer Grant Geissman, a name synonymous with both jazz innovation and unforgettable television soundtracks.We kick things off with the story behind one of the most iconic solos in contemporary jazz—Grant’s performance on Feels So Good by Chuck Mangione. He shares how that opportunity came about and how Chuck encouraged musicians to leave their personal stamp on his music. From there, Grant takes us through the

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32:24

109: How Jeff Ryan Channels Emotion Through Every Note

Jazz Flyte Podcast ·

2025/10/19

This week on The Jazz Flyte Podcast, I’m joined by one of the most essential voices in today’s smooth jazz scene—saxophonist Jeff Ryan.Jeff shares how he picked up the sax at age 10, inspired by the soulful sound of Grover Washington and the raw power of Michael Brecker. Coming from a family of musicians, Jeff knew early on that music wasn’t just something you play—it’s something you feel. With five Billboard #1s and recognition as the 2020 Billboard Artist of the Year, Jeff opens up about how he

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36:10

EP 108: More Than Charts: The Message Behind Lemek’s...

Jazz Flyte Podcast ·

2025/10/12

Welcome back to The Jazz Flyte Podcast! This week, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Lemek, a genre-defying guitarist who’s already stacked an impressive resume at just 26 years old. Signed to Trippin’ N Rhythm Records, Lemek has had a combined 9 weeks at #1 on the Billboard Smooth Jazz charts and over a million streams on Spotify—all off his debut album Emergence. Now, with his sophomore album Boundless, he’s proving that his creativity truly knows no limits.Lemek takes us through his early

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37:21

EP 107: From Shy Kid to Saxophone Legend

Jazz Flyte Podcast ·

2025/10/05

Welcome back to The Jazz Flyte Podcast! I’m honored to be joined by the legendary Michael Paulo, one of the most versatile and cosmopolitan saxophonists in contemporary jazz, soul, and pop for nearly five decades. You’ve heard his iconic “saxpertise” alongside greats like Al Jarreau, Kenny Loggins, James Ingram, Jeff Lorber, and many more. Now, Michael shares the untold stories behind the music—and what keeps his groove going strong.We talk about his roots in Hawaii’s big band scene, landing a

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37:03

EP 106: No Theory, Just Soul: J. Saxx’s Take on...

Jazz Flyte Podcast ·

2025/09/28

This week on The Jazz Flyte Podcast, I sit down with saxophonist J. Saxx, also known as John Watkins, who takes us deep into the grooves of his musical journey—from childhood curiosity to sold-out shows across Ohio.J. Saxx grew up surrounded by musicians—his father, Rev. John C. Watkins, his uncle Lamar Gaines, and his grandfather Charles Pace—all shaping his early relationship with music. We talk about the moment he ignored his father’s warning and picked up a saxophone left on the couch... and how

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32:39

EP 105: How Tim Heintz Creates Emotion Through Music

Jazz Flyte Podcast ·

2025/09/21

Welcome back to The Jazz Flyte Podcast. I’m your host, Darrell Scott, and this week I’m joined by legendary composer, producer, and keyboardist Tim Heintz—a true behind-the-scenes force in the world of music and sound design.Tim takes us on a journey that began with him playing organ as a child and blossomed into a career that’s spanned decades and genres. From the soulful stylings of Chaka Khan and Michael McDonald, to the intricate soundscapes he crafts for Disney theme parks and Universal

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40:07

EP 104: When the Music Calls: Rob Zinn’s Journey to...

Jazz Flyte Podcast ·

2025/09/14

This week on The Jazz Flyte Podcast, I sit down with multi-instrumentalist and smooth jazz artist Rob Zinn, whose path to the stage wasn’t your typical tale of musical prodigy turned star. Born into a household of discipline—his father was in the FBI—Rob was urged to pursue a more "secure" path. But music kept calling.After years of playing trumpet in big bands and keeping music on the back burner, Rob made a bold pivot nearly a decade ago: he decided to go all in. With the guidance of fellow artist

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28:13

EP 103: Finding Peace Within: Omar Sosa’s Inner Compass

Jazz Flyte Podcast ·

2025/09/05

This week on The Jazz Flyte Podcast, I’m joined by the brilliant Omar Sosa, whose piano playing and compositions transcend borders and awaken the spirit. Omar takes us deep into his musical philosophy—one rooted in ancestral voices, global rhythms, and spiritual expression.We talk about his upcoming trio project “Outside the Box,” which features Jovani Terry and Julia Miltenberg, and will debut in New York and Cleveland. Omar reflects on his journey across cultures, the spiritual significance of the

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32:31

Why Flute Samples Don’t Cut It: Ragan Breaks It Down

Jazz Flyte Podcast ·

2025/08/31

Welcome back to The Jazz Flyte Podcast! This week, I’m excited to bring back one of the most dynamic forces in contemporary jazz—Ragan Whiteside.Known for her powerful stage presence and mastery of the flute, Ragan is no stranger to innovation. In this episode, she shares her latest musical venture Chopped and Flutted and why she’s on a mission to bring real flute sounds back into jazz production. Ragan opens up about juggling life as a mom, artist, and radio host—hosting both WCLK Atlanta and the

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23:35

EP 102: The Sunshine Effect: How Avery Finds Light in...

Jazz Flyte Podcast ·

2025/08/20

On this episode of The Jazz Flyte Podcast, I had the absolute joy of sitting down with the radiant force that is Avery Sunshine. If you’ve ever wondered what sunshine sounds like, tune in—because Avery brings it. We talk about everything from the origin of her stage name to her Grammy win, and how her journey from a musical household in Chester, PA shaped her unforgettable voice and message.Avery shares how growing up with a literal soundtrack in the background—from the beauty salon in her house to

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31:16

EP 101: The One Shift That Could Elevate Your Music...

Jazz Flyte Podcast ·

2025/08/17

On this episode of The Jazz Flyte Podcast, I take a virtual flight to London to sit down with keyboardist, composer, and producer Oli Silk — one of the most celebrated figures in contemporary jazz and often dubbed the UK’s Smooth Jazz Ambassador.Oli’s story starts with the jazz-funk duo Sugar & Silk, which led to a solo career packed with Billboard hits — including the iconic Chill or Be Chilled, which stayed on the Smooth Jazz charts for over a year.We dive into how smooth jazz “chose him,” his

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41:44

EP 100: The Audition That Changed Maysa’s Life Forever

Jazz Flyte Podcast ·

2025/08/10

In this special episode of The Jazz Flyte Podcast, I had the honor of sitting down with the iconic Maysa—a voice that has shaped the sound of contemporary soul and jazz for more than three decades. With her unmistakable honey-toned mezzo-soprano and magnetic presence, Maysa opens up about her unforgettable audition for Stevie Wonder, her time with Wonderlove, and the fateful moment she got the call to join Incognito: “You got the gig. We don’t want anybody else.”Maysa reflects on the challenges of

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26:35

EP 98: The Saxophonist Who Learned to Play Before She...

Jazz Flyte Podcast ·

2025/07/27

In this week’s episode of The Jazz Flyte Podcast, I’m joined by the sensational Jessy J—one of the most sought-after saxophonists in contemporary jazz today. With eight Billboard-charting albums, 13 top singles, a global fanbase, and a performance history that spans over 17 years, Jessy J brings not just skill, but soul to every note.Jessy started playing saxophone at nine, pivoting from piano and becoming the only saxophonist in her elementary school band. By 15, she was performing at the Montreux

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37:07

EP 97: Why Sitting Still Is the Most Powerful...

Jazz Flyte Podcast ·

2025/07/20

On this episode of The Jazz Flyte Podcast, I had the joy of sitting down with world-class drummer, producer, and multi-instrumentalist Eric Valentine—but this conversation goes far beyond the beats. Known for his work with artists like Richard Elliot, Peter White, Stephanie Mills, Lindsey Webster, and even rock icons like Joe Satriani and Steve Vai, Eric steps out from behind the kit to talk about the heartbeat behind the groove: love, intuition, and service.Eric shares the story of how he was

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36:54

EP 96: He Was the Kid With a Guitar—Now He Teaches...

Jazz Flyte Podcast ·

2025/07/13

On this episode of The Jazz Flyte Podcast, I sit down with master guitarist, composer, and educator Richard Smith—a man who’s been shaping smooth jazz from every angle for decades. Born in Detroit and raised in Eugene, Oregon, Richard’s musical journey began with a spark from a Chick Corea concert at just 14 years old. That one moment set the stage for a life of passion, discipline, and bold choices—including skipping school, landing a record deal, and eventually becoming a professor shaping the

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37:36

EP 95: The Secret to Lasting 30 Years in the Music...

Jazz Flyte Podcast ·

2025/07/06

On this episode of The Jazz Flyte Podcast, I’m joined by internationally acclaimed guitarist JJ Sansaverino—a man whose career spans more than three decades, five albums, and over 50 tour dates a year. You might know him from his Billboard #1 hit or his fiery blend of smooth jazz, traditional jazz, reggae, blues, and R&B. But behind the strings is a story that started with a turntable, a Santana record, and a kid learning by ear.JJ takes us on a journey through his roots in New York, growing up

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38:44

EP 94: Michael Broening on the Magic of “Swayed” and...

Jazz Flyte Podcast ·

2025/06/29

On this episode of The Jazz Flyte Podcast, I sit down with producer, pianist, and songwriter Michael Broening—a man behind more than 65 contemporary jazz hits, including 25 number-one singles. You’ve probably heard his work even if you didn’t know his name. From George Benson and Al Jarreau’s Grammy-winning track “Mornin’” to chart-toppers with Marion Meadows, Lemek, and Althea René, Michael’s influence in smooth jazz runs deep.Michael opens up about the evolution of his career—from a touring

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31:41

EP 93: From Switzerland to Smooth Jazz: The Fabio...

Jazz Flyte Podcast ·

2025/06/22

On this episode of The Jazz Flyte Podcast, I take a virtual trip to Switzerland with internationally acclaimed guitarist Fabio Mignola. From the accordion at age seven to classical guitar, and eventually to smooth jazz, Fabio's journey is as melodic and diverse as the music he creates. Trained in classical music but inspired by artists like Pat Metheny, Jimi Hendrix, and Carlos Santana, Fabio carved out his own space blending Latin, Brazilian, and American influences.We talk about what it means to

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15:30

EP 92: The Slow Burn of Success: Inside Boney James’...

Jazz Flyte Podcast ·

2025/06/15

On this episode of The Jazz Flyte Podcast, I welcome one of the most celebrated names in contemporary jazz—Boney James. With four GRAMMY nominations, multiple gold records, and the historic milestone of 20 number-one Billboard Smooth Jazz singles, Boney’s career is both legendary and evolving.We revisit Boney’s first professional gig with Morris Day and how that experience shifted his understanding of music from passion to paycheck. But when the creative fire wouldn’t leave him alone, he made a bold

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112 results

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