Rapp on Jazz

Rapp on Jazz

By South Carolina Public RadioMusicMusic CommentaryMusic History
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Rapp on Jazz episodes

  • Jazz on the radio

    Radio has played a pivotal role in spreading the sound of jazz across America and around the world. 

    Visit southcarolinapublicradio.org/rapponjazz for full transcripts.

    1 min
  • South Carolina in the Jazz Age

    During the Jazz Age of the 1920s and ’30s, South Carolina played a key yet often overlooked role in shaping the sound and spirit of American jazz.

    Visit southcarolinapublicradio.org/rapponjazz for full transcripts.

    1 min
  • Gospel music

    Gospel Music has had a profound influence on jazz. From the church pews to the bandstands, gospel has shaped jazz's emotional depth, phrasing, and spirit since its earliest days. 

    Visit southcarolinapublicradio.org/rapponjazz for full transcripts.

    1 min
  • Song form

    There are several common song forms in jazz — the structures that shape the music we love. 

    Visit southcarolinapublicradio.org/rapponjazz for full transcripts.

    1 min
  • Scat singing

    Scat singing is one of jazz’s most joyful expressions. The term scat is vocal improvisation where singers use nonsense syllables instead of lyrics, turning their voice into an instrument. 

    Visit southcarolinapublicradio.org/rapponjazz for full transcripts.

    1 min
  • Jazz in classical music

    In the early 20th century, jazz’s syncopated rhythms and improvisational flair began weaving into classical composition. 

    Visit southcarolinapublicradio.org/rapponjazz for full transcripts.

    1 min
  • Trading fours

    “Trading fours” is a musical conversation in which musicians—usually a soloist and a drummer—alternate four-bar phrases. 

    Visit southcarolinapublicradio.org/rapponjazz for full transcripts.

    1 min
  • Playing for presidents

    From the White House lawn to grand state dinners, jazz has long been part of the nation’s political soundtrack. 

    Visit southcarolinapublicradio.org/rapponjazz for full transcripts.

    1 min
  • Dizzy Gillespie for president

    In 1964, jazz legend and South Carolina native Dizzy Gillespie added a new title to his resume—presidential candidate. 

    Visit southcarolinapublicradio.org/rapponjazz for full transcripts.

    1 min
  • Little Pink Anderson

    Little Pink Anderson was born in Spartanburg, South Carolina, on July 13, 1954. From infancy, he was immersed in music as the son of legendary bluesman Pink Anderson.

    Visit southcarolinapublicradio.org/rapponjazz for full transcripts.

    1 min

About Rapp on Jazz

From the publisher's feed

Rapp on Jazz, co-produced by South Carolina Public Radio and the ColaJazz Foundation, highlights the Palmetto State's connection to the history of jazz music and the current jazz scene. Join Mark…