On this episode of The Bandwich Tapes, I sit down with Terri Lyne Carrington to discuss her remarkable career, her artistic evolution, and her ambitious new album, Trip the Night Fantastic. Widely recognized as one of the most influential drummers, composers, producers, and educators working today, Terri shares how groove, storytelling, and social consciousness have become inseparable parts of her creative voice.

We talk about the concept behind Trip the Night Fantastic, which Terri describes as a groove-centered project created for difficult times. Our conversation explores the relationship between dance, rhythm, and emotional connection, and how groove can often reach listeners before lyrics ever do. Terri reflects on jazz’s historical relationship with dance music and why reconnecting with that tradition felt important for this project.

We also dive into her journey as an artist and how life experience eventually led her to fully integrate her identity, values, and artistic work. Drawing on lessons learned from mentors such as Wayne Shorter and Herbie Hancock, Terri discusses leadership, collaboration, production, and the challenge of balancing a strong artistic vision with creating space for others to contribute.

The conversation also explores the work of the Berklee Institute of Jazz and Gender Justice, the role of representation in music education, and the importance of creating environments where new voices can shape the future of the art form. Along the way, Terri reflects on her upbringing in Boston, her experiences working alongside some of the greatest musicians in jazz history, and what gives her hope when she looks at the next generation of artists.

This is a thoughtful conversation about creativity, purpose, community, and the ongoing evolution of jazz from one of its most important modern voices.

Key Takeaways

• Trip the Night Fantastic was conceived as a groove-oriented album designed to reconnect jazz with its dance traditions.
• Terri believes groove often creates an emotional connection before listeners fully engage with lyrical content.
• Her artistic identity became stronger when she stopped separating her life experiences from her creative work.
• Lessons from mentors like Wayne Shorter and Herbie Hancock continue to influence her approach to music and leadership.
• Producing music requires balancing a clear artistic vision with openness to collaborators’ ideas.
• The Berklee Institute of Jazz and Gender Justice was created to expand opportunities and perspectives within jazz education.
• Terri remains optimistic about the future of jazz because of the creativity, knowledge, and commitment she sees in younger musicians.

Music from the Episode

• Riddim Song - Terri Lyne Carrington
• Identity Song - Terri Lyne Carrington
• Autonomy Song - Terri Lyne Carrington
• Solidarity Song - Terri Lyne Carrington

About the Podcast

The Bandwich Tapes is a podcast hosted by Brad Williams that features in-depth conversations with musicians, composers, producers, educators, and other creative artists. Each episode explores the craft of making music, artistic growth, collaboration, creative philosophy, and the stories behind the people shaping today’s musical landscape.

Connect with the Show

Email: [email protected]