MusiConversations on Jazz

MusiConversations on Jazz - Schu-Memories by Tom Schuman on Buddy Tate - Season 1a Episode 3 - Originally Aired 2021

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This podcast episode features a heartfelt story from Tom Schuman about his encounter with legendary saxophonist Buddy Tate at the 1989 JVC Grand Parade du Jazz in Nice, France.


The Festival Setting

  • The festival was an 11-day jazz event featuring legendary performers such as Dizzy Gillespie, Jimmy Heath, Lionel Hampton, B.B. King, and others.
  • Spyro Gyra performed during the festival, which concluded with a lively party at the Hyatt hotel near the beach in Nice.


    • Meeting Buddy Tate

    • Tom met Buddy Tate, a former member of the Count Basie and Lionel Hampton bands, at the festival’s after-party.
    • Buddy was sharing stories about his career and the racial discrimination he faced, including being barred from entering venues like the Cotton Club and Birdland through the front door or using basic amenities due to segregation.


      • A Powerful Moment

      • Moved by Buddy’s stories, Tom expressed his remorse, saying, “How can you even talk to a guy like me?”
      • Buddy responded with kindness, reassuring Tom that he understood it wasn’t his fault, embodying the familial and forgiving spirit of the jazz community.


        • Reflections on Jazz Community

        • Tom highlights the camaraderie and acceptance within the jazz world, emphasizing that being part of the music community felt like belonging to a family.
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          MusiConversations on JazzBy MusiConversations on Jazz - Host Tom Schuman