In this episode, we trace the rise of Rufus Rockhead and the making of Rockhead’s Paradise — the club that became the epicentre of Montreal’s jazz scene. It’s the story of how one man’s ambition transformed a city’s nightlife and created a powerful space for music, community, and resistance.

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Host Cindy Charles

Writer Nuruddin Qorane

Executive Producer Ryan Barnett

Associate Producer Cindy Charles

Voice Director & Editor Sonia Gemmiti

Researcher Dr. Sarafina Pagnotta

Series Consultants Kathy Grant & Mathias Joost

This series features interviews with Lt. Jerome Downey, Robert Downey, Jr., Michael Marville, Stephen Dame, Mathias Joost, Kathy Grant, Constance Backhouse, Dr. Dorothy Williams

Additional voices by Keith Francis & Matthew Barnett

Featuring "Hello Montreal" performed by Fred Waring & The Pennsylvanians

A Knockabout Media Production

This podcast was made possible thanks to funding from Veterans Affairs Canada’s Commemorative Partnership Program.

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