Listen to the final episode in our three-part series exploring the music of Reunald Jones, a legendary Indiana trumpet player with deep connections to the Avenue scene. Hear music featuring Jones’ work with Duke Ellington, Sonny Rollins, Dinah Washington, Quincy Jones, Nat King Cole and more.

Listen to the second episode in our three-part series exploring the music of Reunald Jones, a legendary Indiana trumpet player with deep connections to the Avenue scene. During his remarkable career, Jones was best known for his work with Count Basie from 1952 to 1957. During that time, he led the band’s trumpet section, and he became known for playing the trumpet with one hand.

Listen to the first episode in our three-part series exploring the music of Reunald Jones, an important jazz trumpet player with deep connections to the Avenue neighborhood. In this show, we’ll hear Jones’ early recordings with Mezz Mezzrow, Lil Hardin, Don Redman, Jimmie Lunceford and more.

In April of 2025, a new Indiana state historical marker was placed in the Indiana Avenue neighborhood honoring the history of the Phillis Wheatley YWCA. During the era of segregation, it was a crucial institution for Black women in Indianapolis, providing a safe space for community, education, and advocacy, and was one of the neighborhood’s premier classical music venues. Listen to rare recordings from artists who performed there in this episode.

Celebrate Pride month by looking back at the history of female impersonators and drag queens on the Avenue. Listen to rare recordings featuring the work of female impersonators connected to the Avenue scene, along with interviews featuring Avenue artists who worked alongside them.

In May of 2025, the Indianapolis keyboardist DeMorris “DeGe” Smith passed away. Smith was a beloved figure in the Naptown funk scene, known for his soulful keyboard work and his dedication to the local music community. Join us as we pay tribute to Smith with music featuring his work as a funk keyboardist.

Enjoy the final episode in our three-part series exploring the music of Phil Ranelin, a legendary Indianapolis jazz trombonist. On this edition, Ranelin will discuss his lifelong friendship with jazz star Freddie Hubbard.

Phil Ranelin reflects on his work with Wes Montgomery and performing on Indiana Avenue. He will also discuss how his work has been embraced by a new generation of musicians, including Madlib, Kamasi Washington, and Carlos Niño.

Celebrate the anniversary of Phil Ranelin’s birthday by exploring his work in music. Listen to a recent interview he recorded with WFYI’s Kyle Long, along with classic recordings from his discography and recent releases, including "The Found Tapes: Live in Los Angeles” and “Tribe 2000.”

This week on Echoes of Indiana, we're joined by bassist and Ebony Rhythm Funk Campaign co-founder Lester Johnson to reflect on his early years in music.