Harry Washington’s Extraordinary Life
In 2021 and 2022, I first came across the stories of Harry Washington and James Lafayette, two enslaved men with links to Revolutionary War heroes George Washington and the Marquis…
Appreciation for David Lindley
David Lindley, one of my musical heroes, just passed away and I feel compelled to gather this appreciation of his life and work. I’ve long admired this adventurous, idiosyncratic, impish,…
Rhiannon Giddens’ Black History Month Profiles
For 2023 Black History Month, Rhiannon Giddens posted a series Facebook profiles of overlooked or underappreciated figures in Black history. I found these profiles informative and appreciate Rhiannon's comments with…
Footsteps and Breadcrumbs: Jose Andres and Family in Spain
I watch a lot of cooking and travel shows. One of my all-time favorites was Made in Spain which introduced me to many of the regions, cuisines and dishes of…
Our Native Daughters Reunite in Triumph at Carnegie Hall
Rhiannon Giddens, Allison Russell, Amythyst Kiah and Leyla McCalla expand on their groundbreaking album, Songs of Our Native Daughters , in exhilarating Carnegie Hall concert Inspired by her visit to…
Silkroad Ensemble with Rhiannon Giddens, Wolf Trap, July 24, 2022
The Silkroad Ensemble, conceived and led by Yo-Yo Ma for more than 25 years, is a rotating collective of dozens of musicians…not a single band but more a concept and…
Reflecting on My Road Scholar Music Cities USA Tour: Nashville to Memphis
In March 2022, I embarked with my sister on a pilgrimage of sorts to learn more about the roots of American music. Our destinations included Nashville, Memphis, Muscle Shoals, Asheville…
NMAAM Playlists
This post is my attempt to save the various playlists I created at the National Museum of African American Music (museum website) when we visited in March 2022. These playlists…
Music Roots Road Trip: Nashville, Memphis & More
In March 2022, I embarked with my sister on a pilgrimage of sorts to learn more about the roots of American music. Our destinations included Nashville, Memphis, Muscle Shoals, Asheville…
Memphis Music Education
I was reluctant to dive into this post but couldn't resist. In March 2022, if things work out, my sister and I will embark on a music road trip to…