The Untold Story of West Coast Jazz

Summary:

A musical exploration of this lyrical and controversial style of jazz

Additional Credits and Funding:

This program is made possible in part by a grant from the California Council for the Humanities, a state affiliate of the National Endowment for the Humanities, and by the Fleishhacker Foundation

Tones:

Engaging, Informational, Surprising

Language:

English

Description:

West Coast jazz was tremendously popular in the 1950s, but also caused huge controversy. To this day, some say a distinct West Coast sound never existed. Others say West Coast jazz mainly appealed to whites and reflected the racial segregation of the jazz world in those days.

In this half-hour, highly produced documentary, jazz journalist and producer Reese Erlich explores these controversies and the incredible music of that era. Listen to the music of such greats as Gerry Mulligan, Dave Brubeck, Shelly Manne, and Bud Shank.

“The Untold Story of West Coast Jazz” is hosted by Clifford Brown Jr.

New to PRX?

Learn More | Sign Up