Discover: Jazz History
Why MLK Believed Jazz Was the Perfect Soundtrack for Civil Rights
Jazz, King declared, was the ability to take the “hardest realities of life and put them into music, only to come out with some new hope or sense of triumph.”…
Trumpeter Buddy Bolden
Charles “Buddy” Bolden is said to be the first musician to play jazz music. While this is debatable, it is clear that Bolden’s music helped form the jazz movement. Bolden…
Bessie Smith, St. Louis Blues 1925 — Short Film
On this day, in 1925, the version sung by Bessie Smith, with Louis Armstrong on cornet, was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 1993. “The St. Louis Blues”…
Jackie McLean, "Bluenik"
On this day, January 8, 1961..saxophonist Jackie McLean records "Bluesnik" with trumpeter Freddie Hubbard. The Allmusic review by Thom Jurek awarded the album 4½ stars and stated: "Many critics-as well…
"What's the Matter Now?"
Charlie Parker and Dizzy Gillespie recorded the classic "What's The Matter Now?" with vocalist Rubberlegs Williams this day in history! https://youtu.be/lWFx3-Mg9hE?t=1
Happy Birthday to Louis Armstrong!
Born on this day in 1901 was Louis Daniel Armstrong (Aug 4, 1901 – July 6, 1971), aka "Satchmo", "Satch", and "Pops", if you know Jazz, you know Louis Armstrong.…
Billie Holiday & Lester Young Friendship
Today is National Friendship Day! The intensely intimate but totally platonic relationship that developed between Young and Holiday from 1934 was publicly recognized during their lifetime. Prez & Lady Day:…
On this Day—Miles Davis: Blue Mood
Genre: Jazz, cool jazz Label: Debut Recorded: July 9, 1955 Miles Davis, Charles Mingus and Elvin Jones on the same recording? Yes, it happened. And it happened on this day…
Happy Birthday to Stan Getz and Sonny Stitt!
Today we celebrate the birthday anniversary of two virtuosic saxophonists who were different in many ways, but both of whom shared a passion for the playing of Lester Young:Sonny Stitt…
E-News Signup
Our weekly e-newsletter, Oasis Online, provides station and community event updates.
Become a Member
Join the growing family of people who believe that music is essential to our community. Your donation supports the work we do, the programs you count on, and the events you enjoy.
Download the App
Download KUVO's FREE app today! The KUVO Public Radio App allows you to take KUVO's music and news with you anywhere, anytime!