In today’s episode, Mike spotlights bandleaders Bennie Moten and Jimmie Lunceford. While they may not be household names, their impact on the Big Band Era is still greatly felt. We hope this episode inspires you to dig more into the music of these swinging bands and uncover new music within the Big Band Era. … Read more »

Happy Holidays from Listening with Leckrone! Holiday music is everywhere this time of year. To offset the same old songs playing through your head, Mike has curated a playlist of Holiday Hits you may not have heard before. While the songs are familiar, hopefully arrangements from Fats Waller, Stan Kenton, or Tommy Dorsey will breathe… Read more »

In this episode, Mike explores the career and music of Wisconsin’s own Les Paul, legendary guitarist and inventor. In addition to having an impact on the industry through his musicianship, he also greatly influenced physical guitar models and recording techniques through his own inventions and explorations. Whether you are listening to his early jazz trio,… Read more »

In today’s episode we explore the music of Jack Teagarden, a trombonist and vocalist whose superior technique and relaxed singing style found him playing with the biggest band leaders of the day. Through his recordings, we can hear his command over his instrument and understand why he’s largely considered one of the greatest players to… Read more »

“the soul of melody… a man who made the piano sing… both big in body and in mind… known for his generosity… a bubbling bundle of joy” — Andy Razaf (long-time collaborator) on Fats Waller Thomas Wright Waller, better known as Fats Waller, started his career as a pianist and organist at the age of… Read more »