Jazz Flyte Podcast

What do you get when you mix a seven-year-old piano prodigy, a drummer-turned-keyboardist, and a career that spans more than 50 years of world-class jazz?

You get David Garfield.

In this episode of The Jazz Flyte Podcast, I sit down with the multi-talented David Garfield—keyboardist, composer, arranger, producer, label owner, and musical director whose impact on the jazz and world music scene is impossible to measure.

David takes us back to his early days in St. Louis, where Top 40 radio shaped his ear and a group of bar-playing musicians changed his trajectory forever. We talk about how a single rhythm test pushed him to switch from piano to drums, only for fate to bring him full circle—and back to the keys.

He shares intimate stories of working alongside Nathan East, touring the globe with George Benson, and what it really means to be present in the music. David doesn’t believe in multitasking—he believes in presence. He believes in feeling the music and creating something that truly connects. That mindset has guided his every move—from founding Creatchy Records to performing in packed jazz clubs around the world.

We reflect on 50 years of life and music in Los Angeles, the meaning behind his upcoming book and companion album “Outside the Box,” and the beautiful unpredictability of playing live. Whether you're a musician, a fan of jazz history, or someone chasing their creative calling, this conversation is a deep dive into the mind of a master.

Connect with David: www.davidgarfield.com

In this episode of The Jazz Flyte Podcast, I had the pleasure of flying deep into rhythm with world-class bassist and songwriter Roberto Valley. His story starts in New York City, where vinyl records and opera melodies first sparked his love for music. But it wasn’t just a hobby—it was a calling.

Roberto walks me through his early steps in music: teaching himself piano and guitar, discovering the bass in third grade thanks to an unexpected aptitude test, and leading a classroom into song with his first two notes. We talk about his transition from electric to upright bass, and why that shift separates players from true professionals.

We get personal too. Roberto opens up about the calluses on his hands (yes, he literally sands them down with sandpaper), and the grounding power of doing yoga—thanks to his daughter’s insistence.
From recording and touring with icons like George Benson, Jeffrey Osborne, Boz Scaggs, and Jessy J, to co-writing “Now Till Forever” with Kirk Whalum—Roberto’s journey is layered with discipline, divine timing, and deep emotional resonance.

He shares what it was like being asked by Bobby Caldwell to tour, and how being a sideman means knowing exactly when to play—and when not to. This conversation is more than music—it’s about intuition, storytelling through strings, and finding harmony between passion and professionalism.

We also talk about his upcoming collaborations with David Benoit, Najee, and Jayson Tipp, and why the bass isn’t just the foundation of the band—it’s often where the real story begins.

Connect with Roberto: https://robertovally.com/

From Switzerland to Berklee, from jazz clubs to world tours, Greg Manning’s musical journey is one of passion, perseverance, and purpose. On this episode of Jazz Flyte Podcast, Greg takes us inside his evolution from a drummer to a sought-after pianist and producer, sharing how a Stevie Wonder song changed his life, his early struggles with acceptance in the Swiss music scene, and the leap of faith that led him to Berklee College of Music.

Greg talks about his experiences working with legends like Jonathan Butler, Kirk Whalum, and Mindi Abair, and how going the extra mile has shaped his career. He also discusses the emotional inspiration behind A Song for Peace, the power of mindfulness in his creative process, and his latest venture—his very own record label designed to uplift fellow artists.

This is a conversation about music, resilience, and staying true to your sound. Don’t miss it! 

Connect with Greg: https://www.gregmanningmusic.com/

If there’s anyone who can carry on the legacy of Al Jarreau, it’s Chris Walker. In this episode of Jazz Flyte, I sit down with the powerhouse musician who spent over 20 years as Al’s musical director, co-vocalist, and bassist. Chris takes us on a journey through his career—from learning Al’s music by ear to leading his band and performing worldwide.

Chris also opens up about working with legends like Frankie Beverly and Regina Belle, sharing how a missed mic check unexpectedly launched his full-time singing career. He dives into the power of faith, the importance of character in the music industry, and the intense discipline he maintains—like cycling 15 miles while singing an entire set—to keep his voice strong.

Plus, he tells the story behind his tribute to Al Jarreau, his work with TMF, and how he effortlessly plays a right-handed bass upside down. Tune in for a masterclass in perseverance, musicianship, and honoring a legendary legacy.

Connect with Chris: https://chriswalkersmusic.com/

What does it take to break barriers in jazz? On this episode of The Jazz Flyte Podcast, I sit down with the incomparable Terri Lyne Carrington—a four-time Grammy-winning drummer, composer, and educator who’s reshaping the future of jazz.

From receiving a full scholarship to Berklee at just 11 years old to sharing the stage with Herbie Hancock, Wayne Shorter, and Esperanza Spalding, Terri’s journey is nothing short of legendary. We talk about the moment she got her first big gig with Clark Terry, how her father and grandfather shaped her musical path, and why she felt called to return to Berklee as a professor and the founder of the Jazz and Gender Justice Institute.

Terri opens up about the challenges women face in jazz, the toxic masculinity she’s working to dismantle, and her vision for a more inclusive industry. Plus, we break down the stories behind "Respected Destroyer" and "Wind Flower", dive into her creative process, and get a sneak peek at her new album.

And for my Cleveland listeners—Terri is coming to town soon! She shares what to expect from her live performance and why this tour is so special. Don’t miss this powerful conversation. Hit subscribe and join me on The Jazz Flyte Podcast!

On this episode of The Jazz Flyte Podcast, I sit down with the one and only BillyRay Sheppard, a saxophonist whose smooth jazz sound has captivated audiences for decades. From his early inspirations—listening to The Crusaders and Grover Washington Jr.—to becoming a first-call performer in the industry, BillyRay’s journey is a testament to passion and perseverance.

We dive deep into the story behind his song “Moscato Moon,” a piece inspired by the Texas wine country and the luminous beauty of a full moon.

Beyond the music, BillyRay’s Second Sunday Smooth Jazz Series has become a staple for jazz lovers, blending incredible performances with a mission to give back. And if that’s not enough, he’s gearing up for his 8th Smooth Jazz Cruise in November 2025, promising an unforgettable experience for jazz enthusiasts.

Join us for an episode filled with storytelling, soulful sounds, and the passion that makes smooth jazz an unshakable force.

Connect with BillyRay: https://www.billyraysheppard.com/

Music is more than just notes—it’s about connection, commitment, and carving out your own sound. On this episode of The Jazz Flyte Podcast, I sit down with Tony Pulizzi, an in-demand guitarist who has spent over a decade performing in Los Angeles. With a career spanning performances with Smokey Robinson, Natalie Cole, Tito Jackson, Stevie Wonder, and more, Tony’s story is one of versatility and passion.

Tony’s love for music began at just nine years old, first on piano, inspired by his mother. But a poster changed everything, sparking his lifelong love affair with the guitar. He credits great teachers and an unexpected gift of books from an airline pilot for shaping his early growth. Though a rock fan at heart, jazz found its way into his playing, leading him to develop a signature sound through years of practice and study.

We dive into his time on American Idol and Dancing with the Stars, where he learned the fast-paced world of live TV. Tony also shares what it was like to uproot his life, move to LA in the middle of raging wildfires, and hustle to find his place in a highly competitive music industry. He reflects on the people leaving LA, how he balances his time with the support of his wife, and why music remains his true calling.

Beyond the guitar, Tony’s passion for singing and rock music shines through, and he shares his plans for new acoustic projects and vocal-driven performances. If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to sustain a career in music while staying true to your sound, this episode is for you.

On this episode of The Jazz Flyte Podcast, I have the pleasure of sitting down with Andrew Neu, one of today’s most dynamic and multi-genre musicians. A master saxophonist, arranger, and composer, Andrew has toured the world with Bobby Caldwell, Diane Schuur, Norman Brown, and Smokey Robinson, sharing the stage with icons like Elton John, Patti LaBelle, and The Temptations.

Andrew’s passion for music runs deep—growing up in a family of musicians, he found his groove in big band jazz, using it as a way to connect with others. From starting out on clarinet to falling in love with the saxophone, he shares his musical influences, from Cannonball Adderley and Grover Washington Jr. to David Sanborn and Maynard Ferguson.

We also talk about the art of arranging for big bands, the highs and lows of being a musician, and the importance of sincerity in show business. Plus, Andrew walks us through the inspiration behind his track Night of the Mojito and gives us a sneak peek into his new single with Rick Braun.

Connect with Andrew: www.andrewneu.com

Building a career in music takes more than talent—it takes heart, resilience, and an unwavering love for the craft.

On this episode of The Jazz Flyte Podcast, I sit down with JC Sol, a powerhouse vocalist whose love for R&B and the classic Philly sound has helped her carve out a space in the world of independent music. From singing as a child to performing Top 40 hits, JC takes us through her journey—from early influences like Lena Horne and Sarah Vaughn to performing across the U.S. and Europe.

JC opens up about the realities of life on the road, from missing family to the challenge of constantly being on the move. She shares how stepping into the corporate world for a time gave her a new perspective and how she found her way back to music, recording covers before stepping into original songwriting. Her track Our Groove became a defining moment in her career, reflecting her commitment to building a brand rooted in positivity.

She also dives into the challenges of being an independent artist, including Canada’s strict radio play quotas that often favor bigger names. But despite the industry’s barriers, JC recalls the unforgettable moment of hearing her song on the radio—a dream come true.

As we talk about her songwriting process, JC compares crafting a song to raising a child—filled with joy, pain, sunshine, and rain. She shares the emotional highs and lows of creating music, the temptation to compare oneself to other artists, and how she stays true to her own creative journey.

And with exciting projects on the horizon—including a duet set for release this spring and plans for an upcoming EP—JC is just getting started.

Tune in for a heartfelt conversation about perseverance, self-discovery, and the power of independent artistry.

Rock Hendricks shares with Darrell about the song "Echoes Rising" and his collaboration with Paul Hardcastle.

Catch the Full Interview Here: https://youtu.be/zuGfUsAD3uY