Inside the Music Season 1 Episode 3
Inside the Music
Season 1

Ep 3. Play On, John: A Life In Music

  • September 13, 2009

Inside the Music season 1 episode 3, titled "Play On, John: A Life In Music," takes a deep dive into the fascinating life and career of the legendary jazz musician, composer, and bandleader John Coltrane.

The episode begins with a brief overview of Coltrane's early life and influences, including his upbringing in the church and his exposure to bebop and other jazz styles as a young musician. From there, we move on to explore the key moments and milestones of Coltrane's career, including his stints with legendary jazz musicians like Dizzy Gillespie and Miles Davis, and his emergence as a solo artist and bandleader in his own right.

One of the key themes of the episode is Coltrane's relentless dedication to his craft and his willingness to constantly push himself to new heights. We hear from a range of experts and scholars who discuss Coltrane's innovative approach to improvisation and his pioneering use of unusual chord progressions and other techniques, which helped to redefine the sound of jazz in the 1960s and beyond.

The episode also delves into Coltrane's personal life, including his struggles with drug addiction and his spiritual journey, which saw him explore a range of Eastern philosophies and hone his own unique form of musical spirituality. We learn about Coltrane's famous "Love Supreme" album, which is widely regarded as a masterpiece of 20th century music and which showcases many of the themes and ideas that were central to his artistic vision.

Along the way, we hear from a range of musicians and experts who provide insights into Coltrane's music and legacy, including saxophonists Branford Marsalis and David Liebman, drummer Jack DeJohnette, and music journalist Ashley Kahn. Through their interviews and analysis, we gain a deeper appreciation of Coltrane's unique contributions to the world of jazz and his enduring influence on generations of musicians.

Overall, "Play On, John: A Life In Music" is a fascinating and informative look at one of the greatest musical innovators of the 20th century. Whether you're a longtime fan of Coltrane's music or simply interested in learning more about the history of jazz, this episode is sure to offer plenty of insights and inspiration.

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Description
  • First Aired
    September 13, 2009
  • Language
    English