Harmonies of Heritage: The Willard Jenkins Odyssey in Jazz Advocacy

Art Works Podcast

We’re taking a deep dive with Willard Jenkins into his life in jazz. Willard discusses his early exposure to jazz in Pittsburgh and Cleveland, crediting his parents' record collection for his initial fascination with the genre, and the profound impact local jazz scenes and radio had on his musical journey. Willard recounts his transformative college years at Kent State University, detailing how his love for jazz deepened, his early forays into jazz journalism, starting with writing for his college's Black student newspaper, and his progression from journalism including his time at the “Cleveland Plain Dealer. ” We talk about his extensive efforts in promoting jazz, from founding the Northeast Ohio Jazz Society to spearheading jazz programs at Arts Midwest and serving as the artistic director of major jazz festivals, including DC Jazz Fest which strikes a balance between local talent and international musicians while still maintaining a focus on emerging artists. Willard also reflects on his close collaboration with NEA Jazz Master Randy Weston, including co-writing Weston’s autobiography “African Rhythms.” We dive into "Ain't But a Few of Us," Willard’s book which is a compilation of interviews that share the experiences of the few African-American jazz journalists. We also hear Willard’s reflection on his years of radio broadcasting, and his contributions to oral history projects, stressing the value of capturing the stories of jazz greats. And finally, Willard reflects on his deep appreciation for receiving an award named for one his heroes: the A.B. Spellman NEA Jazz Masters Award for Advocacy.