The Sauce with Dawn Burns

Join host Dawn Burns on The Sauce for a conversation with Ernie Paniccioli—an icon and the preeminent visual historian of Hip Hop. Long before the culture became a global movement, Ernie was there with his camera, documenting its earliest moments in New York City. For more than fifty years, he has captured pioneers like Grandmaster Flash, Queen Latifah, Nas, Chuck D of Public Enemy, and The Notorious B.I.G.. Hear the stories, wisdom, and spirit of a man who helped preserve Hip Hop history. Ernie Paniccioli photo credit Robert Adam @Phototob.

Join host Dawn Burns on The Sauce. In this episode, Dawn sits down with Cheryl “Salt” James—iconic rapper, songwriter, and producer, best known as a founding member of the Grammy-winning, pioneering hip-hop duo Salt-N-Pepa. Formed in 1985 with Sandra “Pepa” Denton, the group became one of the first successful all-female rap acts, delivering classic hits like “Push It.”

Join host Dawn Burns on The Sauce for a compelling conversation with Lauren Lee, a forward-thinking vocalist, pianist, and composer based in New York City. Originally from the St. Louis, Missouri, metro area, Lauren began her creative music journey as a teenager in the St. Louis Symphony Chorus, an experience that launched her search for a truly original sound.Lauren is the creator of "Vocal Instrumentalism,” a distinctive improvisational approach blending voice, texture, and musical storytelling. Often compared to innovators like Carla Bley and Jen Shyu, her work has been described as “equal parts hip jazz, avant adventure, and something completely different.”Exploring the space between jazz’s history and its future, Lauren Lee is redefining the genre. Hear her story and music on The Sauce with Dawn Burns.

Join host Dawn Burns on *The Sauce* for a dynamic conversation with Makia, a performing artist and songwriter from Chicago’s historic Englewood neighborhood. Makia has energized audiences across the Midwest—from college campuses and house parties to major Chicago stages including Reggie’s Rock Club, Estate Nightclub, Collaboraction Theatre Company, and Schubas. His reach extends nationally, with performances at New York City’s iconic Pyramid Club in the Lower East Side and Miami Beach’s renowned Miami Live venue.

Known for crafting songs with unforgettable hooks, Makia pairs lyrical storytelling with a distinctive cadence and flow that sets him apart. Don’t miss this rising artist as he shares his journey, music, and creative vision on *The Sauce with Dawn Burns*.

Join host Dawn Burns on *The Sauce* for an inspiring conversation with acclaimed saxophonist Jazmin Ghent. An international smooth jazz and gospel artist, Jazmin is a 2019 NAACP Image Award winner and a six-time Billboard Top 5 performer, with her #1 hit “Kickin’ It Up” leading the way.  An accomplished educator and dynamic performer, she has captivated audiences across the U.S., Europe, and Australia. In this episode, Jazmin shares how her name shaped her life’s journey, her passion for teaching, and what fans can expect at the Elkhart Jazz Festival, June 17–19. Plus, enjoy her music and stay tuned for more great conversations on *The Sauce with Dawn Burns*.

Join host Dawn Burns on *The Sauce* for an inspiring conversation with Dr. Marvin Curtis and Deana “Dezha” Moore of Equity in the Arts. This innovative program is dedicated to ensuring all South Bend residents have access to the Morris Performing Arts Center—and to the arts beyond its walls.

Learn how Equity in the Arts has launched impactful initiatives, including the South Bend High School Music Festival, Manuscripts in May, Festival of Dance, Movies at the Morris, and Día de los Muertos. Dr. Curtis, Arts Equity & Public Art Coordinator for the City of South Bend, also serves as president of the South Bend Symphony Orchestra. Deana Moore, General Manager of Venues, is a singer, songwriter, and community leader.

Tune in to *The Sauce with Dawn Burns* for insight, inspiration, and cultural connection.

Join host Dawn Burns on The Sauce for a compelling conversation with acclaimed trumpeter Marques Carroll. Drawing national attention since 1996, Marques has shared the stage with legends including Dee Dee Bridgewater, Christian McBride, Wynton Marsalis, and Aretha Franklin. Born into a musical family in St. Louis, he discovered his passion at age eight and developed a rich, versatile musical voice rooted in jazz, classical, and Black American Music traditions. A gifted storyteller, Marques uses his artistry to bridge genres and move the soul.

Tune in to The Sauce for an inspiring journey through music, legacy, and creative expression.

Join host Dawn Burns on The Sauce for an inspiring conversation with Mr. G. Edwin Robinson, head of the Theatre Arts Program at Boys and Girls High School in Brooklyn, New York. Robinson is the recipient of the 2025 Excellence in Theatre Education Award, presented jointly by Carnegie Mellon University and The Tony Awards. This prestigious honor recognizes educators who demonstrate exceptional impact on students’ lives and embody the highest standards of the profession. Tune in to The Sauce for a powerful discussion on education, creativity, and life’s boundless possibilities.

Join host Dawn Burns on The Sauce for a soulful conversation with vocalist, violinist, and songwriter Emmaline—one of today’s most captivating independent artists. From features in Rolling Stone and American Songwriter to opening for 10-time GRAMMY winner Chaka Khan, Emmaline’s smoky, jazz-infused, genre-fluid voice is turning heads worldwide. In 2023, she made her silver-screen debut in Sweetwater, singing classic standards and a powerful duet with Gary Clark Jr. With nearly 500,000 devoted fans online and millions of Spotify streams, Emmaline continues to shine on stage and screen. Her latest EP, Retro Kind of Love, blends sultry vocals, heartfelt songwriting, and virtuosic jazz violin into a timeless soundscape. Tune in to The Sauce with Dawn Burns, for an inspiring, behind-the-music story.

Join host Dawn Burns on The Sauce for a soulful conversation with smooth jazz saxophonist Harold Dawson. Born in Chicago and raised in Kentucky, Dawson discovered his musical calling at thirteen and drew inspiration from artists like Boney James, Kenny G, and Dave Koz. Blending smooth jazz with R&B, funk, and soul, he reflects on key moments that shaped his journey—from meeting Dave Koz to becoming a full-time musician during the pandemic. Dawson also discusses collaboration, mental wellness, and his upcoming single with Jackiem Joyner. Tune in for an inspiring story.