Jazz Flyte Podcast

On this powerful episode of The Jazz Flyte Podcast, I sit down with Billboard-charting saxophonist, pianist, producer, and now actor — Judah Sealy. Known for his smooth jazz hits and solo production style, Judah takes us behind the scenes of his unexpected leap into Hollywood as he portrays Clarence Clemons in the upcoming Bruce Springsteen biopic Springsteen: Deliver Me from Nowhere.

Judah opens up about balancing life as a single dad, teacher, and rising star. We explore the fear, excitement, and red carpet moments of filming for ten days alongside Bruce Springsteen himself.

Judah shares how his love of the saxophone began in eighth grade and was shaped by early influences like Kirk Whalum and family members who surrounded him with music.

We talk about how Judah juggles teaching full-time, being a dedicated father, and producing all his own music — including his latest project, This Is Judah, and a brand-new Christmas album. Whether he's in the classroom or the studio, Judah is guided by one mission: to make music that moves people.

If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to wear multiple hats and still find your rhythm, this conversation is one you don’t want to miss.

Connect with Judah: https://judahsealy.com/

On this episode of The Jazz Flyte Podcast, I sit down with the legendary Will Downing — the smooth baritone voice behind timeless R&B and soul classics like “A Million Ways,” “Nothing Has Ever Felt Like This” with Rachelle Ferrell, and “I Go Crazy.” Known as The Prince of Sophisticated Soul, Will has released 29 albums over 38 years, building a legacy grounded in authenticity, grit, and undeniable groove.

We talk about everything — from his early days doing house music and soundtracks like The Goonies, to signing with Motown, to navigating the shade and skepticism he received early in his solo career. Will shares how a backhanded comment (“You’re no matinee idol”) became the fire that fueled his decades-long success.

He also reflects on what he learned while singing background vocals for Kool & the Gang and how being behind the scenes shaped his understanding of full-stage production. Now with his latest 5-song EP out, Back to Us, Will gives us a taste of what fans can expect at his upcoming Cleveland show in December alongside Avery Sunshine and Leela James.

If you've ever needed a reminder to keep going despite the noise, this episode is for you.

Connect with Will: https://www.willdowning.com/

Purchase Tickets: https://www.playhousesquare.org/events/detail/a-night-of-holiday-soul-with-will-downing-leela-james

What happens when you’ve dedicated your entire life to music—without ever clocking into a “regular” job?

On this episode of The Jazz Flyte Podcast, I sit down with multi-instrumentalist, vocalist, composer, and producer Steve Oliver, a true force in contemporary jazz for nearly 30 years. From radio airwaves to festival stages to composing scores, Steve has built a career fueled entirely by his passion for music—and it shows in every chord he plays.

We talk about how he manages to perform 80 shows a year, write and demo all his own material, and still find joy in every project. Steve opens up about his creative process, how he begins with song titles before melodies, and why the energy of live, in-person collaboration still matters in a digital world.

From composing songs like “Luminate” inspired by Pat Metheny, to upcoming work for the Dave Koz Cruise in 2026, Steve reminds us that being present in the moment is the heart of great music.

If you're someone who lives, breathes, or simply feels music—this one’s for you.

Connect with Steve: https://www.steveolivermusic.com/

What happens when a soulful voice meets a purpose-driven mission?

On this episode of The Jazz Flyte Podcast, I’m joined by Marcel Anderson, a multi-talented neo-soul artist, bestselling author, and public speaker who brings a unique blend of gospel, jazz, and soul into every note he sings. From growing up in a family of seven with strong musical roots to sharing stages with legends like Stevie Wonder and Sheila E, Marcel has carved his own lane as both a creative and a change-maker.

But Marcel’s story goes far beyond the stage. He opens up about his work mentoring young men of color through identity, purpose, and career development. We talk about the importance of vision, the healing power of music, and the courage it takes to turn pain into purpose. Marcel also shares the inspiration behind his book Still Living—a powerful testament to surviving sexual assault and becoming a voice for men who have been silenced.

You’ll also hear how Marcel integrates his lyrics into a workbook, his new album release, and how he balances education, artistry, and entrepreneurship. His story is one of resilience, artistry, and impact—told with honesty, wisdom, and soul.

If you're searching for music that moves your spirit and stories that light your path, this one’s for you.

Connect with Marcel:  https://www.marcelanderson.com/

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 his dad’s car stereo playing Me and Mrs. Jones lit a fire in him. He opens up about growing up in a musical household, practicing endlessly on family trips, and how Grover Washington Jr., David Sanborn, and Charlie Parker shaped his playing. But he also tells the stories you don’t always hear—how the saxophone became his stealth companion through every style imaginable, and how entertainment and adaptability have been his survival tools.

We go deep into the importance of originality in an age of replication, the influence of band culture on his stage presence, and how being a cancer survivor changed his perspective on life, music, and gratitude. Will shares the emotional story of his throat cancer diagnosis, his quiet journey to healing, and how it strengthened his sense of purpose.

We also talk about social media, artist mentorship, and his own podcast where he helps lift others over creative fences. Will is more than just a performer—he’s a curator of joy, a storyteller of survival, and a living groove of gratitude.

Whether you’re a fan of smooth jazz, a fellow artist navigating the hustle, or someone looking for hope through hardship, this episode will leave you inspired and connected.

Connect with Will: http://willdonato.com/

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 pivotal moments of his journey—from falling in love with the guitar after hearing The Beatles, to studying jazz standards thanks to mentors who shifted his musical trajectory.

But Grant’s artistry doesn’t stop at music. He opens up about his deep love for satire and Mad Magazine, which led to a parallel career as a published author and collector, complete with a dedicated museum room in his home. That obsession even influenced his path into television, helping him land scoring gigs for hit shows like Two and a Half Men, Mike & Molly, and The Big Bang Theory. He walks us through the creative process of writing music for TV and how the theme for Two and a Half Men came to life.

We also talk about the discipline it takes to master an instrument, the evolution of his sound, and the story behind tracks like “Side Hustle” and “Preach,” which features Randy Brecker. Plus, we dig into his recent return to the stage for more live shows and what inspires him after decades in the game.

Grant’s story is a testament to versatility, hustle, and the power of staying curious. This episode is a must-listen for musicians, TV lovers, and anyone seeking to blend passion with longevity.

Connect with Grant:  https://www.grantgeissman.com/

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 crafts songs that speak from the heart.

We talk about the importance of writing original melodies, listening deeply, and how music can heal both the artist and the audience. Jeff reflects on what it means to be more than just a sax player—he wants to be remembered as a storyteller, a feeling translator, and a connector of people. He also shares insight into his love for guitar, classical influences, and why his upcoming album is set to push creative boundaries.

Whether it’s his fan-favorite “Sentimental Soul” or his latest tour performances, Jeff’s passion is undeniable. This episode is a masterclass in artistry, intention, and inspiration.

Connect with Jeff: https://www.instagram.com/jeffryansax/?hl=en

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 musical influences—starting at age five, playing alongside his father, and absorbing everything from jazz and pop to metal and orchestral. He shares how his father not only introduced him to jazz, but continues to be one of his strongest collaborators, even joining him onstage during the Dave Koz Cruise.

But Lemek isn’t just about chart-topping hits—he’s intentional about leaving a mark that goes beyond music. He speaks about integrity, love, and values, and how every live show is a chance to preach something meaningful. We talk about the importance of mentorship, saying no, building merchandise as an artist, and learning to rest in a fast-paced industry.

Lemek also dives into the deeper purpose behind his music—how it’s moved listeners, including a powerful encounter with a fan at an airport who shared how his songs helped heal. Whether it’s crafting new material with artists from the cruise or walking through nature in his downtime, Lemek reminds us that music isn’t just about notes—it’s about connection.

Connect with Lemek: https://www.lemekyisraelmusic.com/

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 record deal in Japan where Herbie Hancock played, and his once-in-a-lifetime call from Miles Davis, who recorded Paulo’s demo and put him to the test in the studio. Michael opens up about being a shy kid, playing professionally at 16, and learning the business early thanks to his father and mentors.

Michael also shares the story behind his new trio BPM with Brian Bromberg and Paul Brown, and what makes their musical chemistry so powerful. He gives us a behind-the-scenes look at producing jazz festivals and live events—emphasizing that building a great lineup is no different than crafting a perfect song.

If you’ve ever wanted to know what it really takes to stay relevant, reinvent your sound, and remain soulful in every note—this is the episode for you.

Connect with Michael: https://michaelpaulo.com/

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 that one act sparked a lifetime of passion.

He walks us through his time at the Cleveland School of the Arts, switching from clarinet to drums, and ultimately falling in love with jazz. We dig into the tension between theory and intuition, and how he found his groove by listening—really listening—to the feel of a song. He shares how solos are conversations, and why ear training and emotion often outshine technical perfection.

J. Saxx also reflects on his musical mentors like Kenny Legrand and Russell Thompson, his time playing with the Ohio Players and Dazz Band, and the deep love he receives from the Cleveland and Akron communities. You’ll hear how he carved his own lane with help from Eric Gould and how practice became a soulful ritual, not a chore.

If you’ve ever felt like music is your language, this episode will resonate with your spirit.

Connect with J. Saxx: https://www.instagram.com/jsaxx1/