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Backstage Bay Area
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  • MUSIC INTERVIEWS
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Backstage Bay Area is an exclusive podcast that explores San Francisco’s jazz music scene in depth. It features intimate interviews with emerging and established artists. The program also offers a unique glimpse into the artists' creative processes, inspirations, and upcoming projects.

  1. Inside Trio Grande's Genre-Defying Sound

    2D AGO

    Inside Trio Grande's Genre-Defying Sound

    What happens when you combine a London-born saxophonist, an Israeli guitarist, and a drummer who also plays bass? You get Trio Grande—a modern jazz supergroup rewriting the rules of the trio format.   In this episode of Backstage Bay Area, host Steve Roby sits down with Will Vinson to explore the band's evolution from a Paul Motian-inspired vision to a bass-heavy (not bass-less!) powerhouse featuring the incomparable Nate Wood and guitarist Gilad Hekselman.   What You'll Hear: The serendipitous origin story involving a late-night sit-in at NYC's Cornelius Street Cafe How Nate Wood defies physics by playing drums and bass at the same time The band's additive approach to arrangement and why they never chase a predetermined sound Featured tracks: "Ministry of Love" from Urban Myth (2023) and "The Past", the first single from their upcoming album What's Left (June 2025) A sneak peek at their intimate SF Jazz performances   All music presented in this episode was provided by the musician, with permission, and used for promotional purposes.   Show Details: Trio Grande at SFJAZZ Joe Henderson Lab Wednesday, February 11 Two shows: 7:00 PM & 8:30 PM   Get Tickets: https://www.sfjazz.org/tickets/productions/25-26/trio-grande/   Listen to Trio Grande: https://triogrande-whirlwind.bandcamp.com/album/trio-grande   Backstage Bay Area brings you behind-the-scenes conversations with the artists shaping the Bay Area's vibrant music scene.

    35 min
  2. Greg Rahn: From Silicon Valley to Side Hustle

    JAN 31

    Greg Rahn: From Silicon Valley to Side Hustle

    Bay Area keyboardist, composer, and bandleader Greg Rahn joins host Steve Roby to discuss his fascinating musical journey and his new album Side Hustle—a deeply personal project that brings together jazz, blues, fusion, New Orleans piano traditions, Cuban rhythms, and rock.   Episode Highlights: The Chick Corea Moment: At age 17, Greg received life-changing advice from jazz legend Chick Corea, who encouraged him not to limit himself to one musical lane but to study with teachers who could teach him what he wanted to learn.25 Years in Video Games: Greg spent over two decades composing and producing audio for the video game industry in Silicon Valley, honing his craft across diverse musical styles while raising a family.The Long Road to Side Hustle: Started in 2017, shelved in 2018, and finally completed in 2025, the album took an unexpected detour when Greg recorded his solo piano album Rent Party (2021) to gain a fresh perspective.Honoring Lost Friends: The passing of guitarist Drew Zingg and bassist Steve Evans gave Greg renewed urgency to complete the project, making their performances on the album even more precious.Musical Diversity: From Snarky Puppy-inspired compositions to Steely Dan harmonies, the album showcases Greg's eclectic influences and collaborative spirit.  Songs Featured (provided by the artist and used with permission): "Brand New Bad Idea" (featuring Drew Zingg on guitar and Steve Evans on bass)"Jam Night" (featuring Drew Zingg and Steve Evans)  Upcoming Show: Greg Rahn celebrates the release of Side Hustle with an all-star lineup at the Empress Theater in Vallejo on Friday, February 6th at 8:00 PM. The show features Frank Acosta (guitar), Darrell Landers (bass), Randy Hayes (drums), Chris Kane (blues guitar), Juan Escavido (percussion), and Luke Curley (tuba/trombone).   Get Tickets: https://empresstheatre.org/event/greg-rahn/   Learn More: Greg Rahn's website: https://gregrahn.netBackstage Bay Area: https://www.backstagebayarea.com Photo credit: Phil Hawkins Keeping Jazz Alive in the 415

    27 min
  3. Greg Osby on Minimalism, Mentorship, and the Evolution of Modern Jazz

    JAN 28

    Greg Osby on Minimalism, Mentorship, and the Evolution of Modern Jazz

    Episode Highlights: From St. Louis to the World Stage: Greg Osby shares how growing up surrounded by live music in St. Louis bars and his mother's record distribution job shaped his non-biased appreciation for all genres of musicThe "Mad Clown Music" Revelation: A candid conversation with his sister led Osby to completely rethink his compositional approach, resulting in his 2023 album MinimalismBridging the Gap: Osby discusses his intentional shift toward accessibility—removing excess information to reach beyond the "jazz intelligentsia" and connect with everyday listenersAndrew Hill's Legacy: The saxophonist pays tribute to his mentor Andrew Hill, who called him "the son he never had," and explains how Hill's stutter influenced the composition "Thank You for Your Time."The Post-Hip-Hop Generation: Osby's optimistic view of young musicians today, who are developing faster than ever, thanks to digital access, while still needing real-world apprenticeshipUpcoming SF Jazz Performance: Details on his intimate shows at the Joe Henderson Lab with pianist Tal Cohen and Bay Area musicians Jemele Ramirez (drums) and David Ewell (bass) Songs Played 1.    "Minimalism" – Greg Osby (from Minimalism, 2023) 2.   "Thank You for Your Time" – Greg Osby (from Minimalism, 2023)   Music supplied by and used with permission from Greg Osby. Show Information: Greg Osby at SF JazzJoe Henderson LabSunday, February 1, 2026Showtimes: 6:00 PM & 7:30 PMTickets: sfjazz.org   Links: Greg Osby Official Website: gregosby.comBackstage Bay Area: backstagebayarea.com

    30 min
  4. Simon Phillips on Protocol, Precision, and the Power of the Hang

    JAN 22

    Simon Phillips on Protocol, Precision, and the Power of the Hang

    Show Notes Legendary drummer Simon Phillips joins host Steve Roby to discuss five decades of rhythmic mastery, from teenage session work in 1970s London to leading the modern jazz fusion powerhouse Protocol. In This Episode: The Early Days – Simon recalls stepping into BBC studios at 16 with long hair, patchouli oil, and a Ludwig kit, sight-reading charts for string sections while older musicians in ties looked on skeptically. He shares how growing up in his father's band prepared him for high-pressure sessions with session legends like Herbie Flowers and Ray Cooper.   Protocol V & Beyond – Fresh off the acclaimed 2022 release Protocol V, Simon reveals he's already recorded Protocol Six, set to drop this spring alongside a major European tour. He discusses his new approach of road-testing material live before release, following in the footsteps of Tony Williams and his late collaborator Harami.   The Music Breakdown: "Jagannath" – How a Wednesday morning trash truck inspired an Indian-influenced opener with massive sound "Undeviginti" – The story of a melody that interrupted breakfast and became a groove in 19/16 that still makes you nod your head   The Band – Meet the Protocol lineup heading to Yoshi's: bassist Ernest Tibbs (since 2013), keyboardist Otmaro Ruiz, guitarist Alex Sill, and new saxophonist Philip Whack, whose Joe Henderson-esque tone brings fresh energy to the group.   The Yoshi's Experience – Why Simon loves the Oakland venue's Meyer sound system, professional crew, and intimate vibe (even if he wishes they'd let him play longer sets).   Gear Talk – Simon debuts a brand new Tama mahogany kit finished in green lacquer—the same kit used to record Protocol VI.   Catch Simon Phillips & Protocol Live: 📅 Monday, January 26th at Yoshi's Oakland 🎟️ Tickets: https://yoshis.com 🌐 More info: https://www.simon-phillips.com   *Doors 7:00 PM | Show 7:30 PM*   Featured Tracks: "Jagannath" – Protocol Five "Undeviginti" – Protocol Five All music used on the show was used with the artist’s permission and is present for promotional purposes.  Photo: Stephanie Cabral Backstage Bay Area is hosted by Steve Roby

    37 min
  5. Michael League's Musical Universe Unleashed

    JAN 21

    Michael League's Musical Universe Unleashed

    Five-time Grammy winner Michael League sits down with Steve Roby to discuss his groundbreaking residency at SF Jazz Center—a five-night exploration that shatters the "one-band" label and reveals the full spectrum of his creative life. Best known as the founder of Snarky Puppy, League has spent his career defying categorization. In this conversation, he opens up about why he's never been content being "Mr. Snarky Puppy," his evolution from band leader to curator and "designated hitter," and how his residency format challenges audiences to see musicians as the multidimensional artists they truly are.   Episode Highlights: The Power of DiversityLeague discusses how his residency brings together musicians from Mexico, Cuba, Turkey, Macedonia, the UK, Brooklyn, and North Carolina—a powerful statement in 2026 about the vital role immigrants and people of color play in American music culture.   Ellipsis: The Frankenstein AlbumHear the fascinating story behind "Obbakoso" and the Ellipsis collaboration with Antonio Sánchez and Pedrito Martinez—an album created entirely backwards, where improvisation came first and composition followed.   Looking Back at LingusLeague reflects on Snarky Puppy's breakthrough track with refreshing honesty, comparing it to "looking at college photos" while acknowledging how it opened doors to the deeper, more nuanced work the band creates today.   The Future is CurationWhy League sees his future less as a frontman and more as a facilitator, curator, and bass player at heart—someone who thrives supporting others and creating "unique, bespoke musical experiences."   Breaking Down the ProsceniumThe value of listening parties and soundcheck conversations, where artists and audiences meet on equal ground, without the barrier of performance expectations.   Featured Music: "Obbakoso" from Ellipsis on GroundUp Music (Michael League, Antonio Sánchez, Pedrito Martínez)"Lingus (We Like It Here)" on GroundUp Music, by Snarky Puppy  All songs used with the artist’s permission. Relevant Links: SF Jazz Residency Information:SF Jazz Center – January 29–February 1, 2026 Michael League: GroundUP MusicSnarky Puppy OfficialFeatured Artists: Bill LauranceAntonio SánchezPedrito MartinezCorey HenryBecca StevensBackstage Bay Area is hosted by Steve Roby

    36 min
  6. From Hendrix to Henderson: Marcus Machado's Black Psychedelic Funk Journey

    JAN 19

    From Hendrix to Henderson: Marcus Machado's Black Psychedelic Funk Journey

    Guest: Marcus Machado Episode Description Guitarist Marcus Machado joins host Steve Roby to discuss his journey from childhood prodigy to genre-blurring artist. Dubbed "the next young gun" by Rolling Stone, Machado has toured and recorded with Anderson Paak, Robert Glasper, and Jon Batiste, while his film scores have appeared in award-winning documentaries, including Mr. Soul and Apollo. In this episode, he shares stories about his early influences, his approach to blending rock, funk, hip hop, and jazz, and what audiences can expect from his upcoming intimate performances at SF Jazz.   Featured Songs "Get By" – An instrumental track recorded during the pandemic, offering a message of hope and resilience during difficult times. "Black Psychedelic Funk" – A spontaneous groove that started in Amsterdam in 2007-2008, featuring Daru Jones on drums and Jermaine Holmes (from D'Angelo and The Vanguard) on backing vocals. Episode Highlights Marcus's incredible origin story: picking up a guitar at age 2, playing electric by age 4. His first musical memory: hearing Jimi Hendrix's "EXP" from Axis: Bold as Love. Performing "The Wind Cries Mary" at his kindergarten graduation. The influence of the Band of Gypsys as the first true funk-rock band. His philosophy of staying hungry and remaining a student of the guitar.   Gear talk: analog pedals, Vox amps, Barons fuzz faces, and keeping it simple What to expect from his intimate trio performances at SF Jazz Show Details Marcus Machado at SFJAZZ Center – Joe Henderson Lab Date: Thursday, January 22nd Sets: 7:00 PM & 8:30 PM Featuring: Uriah Duffy (bass) and Damon Jamal Taylor (drums) – all Bay Area musicians Tickets: https://www.sfjazz.org/tickets/productions/25-26/marcus-machado   Limited edition vinyl available at the show, including Aquarius Purple and Blue Diamonds – each with a mystery color variant!   Links Marcus Machado's Website: https://www.marcusmachado.com Backstage Bay Area: https://www.backstagebayarea.com Backstage Bay Area is hosted by Steve Roby

    23 min
  7. Braxton Cook's Collaborative Evolution

    JAN 14

    Braxton Cook's Collaborative Evolution

    Episode Description: Alto saxophonist, vocalist, and composer Braxton Cook joins host Steve Roby for an intimate conversation about his latest album Not Everyone Can Go—a deeply personal record that captures the intersection of touring life, fatherhood, and artistic evolution.   In this episode, Braxton discusses: Growing up in a musically diverse household and his early connection to the saxophone Navigating the tension between career ambition and family life with two young sons The collaborative spirit behind Not Everyone Can Go, featuring multiple producers and musicians from his Los Angeles community The emotional anchor of "My Everything" and the improvised urgency of "Kingdom Come." Letting go of relationships and habits that no longer serve his journey The importance of faith, gratitude, and staying true to what 12-year-old Braxton loved   Featured Tracks: "My Everything" "Kingdom Come"   Upcoming SFJAZZ Show: Braxton Cook with Kiefer Trio + Josh Johnson Smart Bomb Takeover Series Sunday, January 18, 2026 | 4:00 PM Miner Auditorium at SFJAZZ Center 201 Franklin Street, San Francisco, CA An evening of exploratory jazz, hip-hop-leaning grooves, and soulful improvisation featuring three distinct voices in contemporary music. Tickets and details available at sfjazz.org.   Learn More: Braxton Cook: braxtoncook.com Backstage Bay Area: backstagebayarea.com Keeping Jazz Alive in the 415   All music was provided by the artist and used with permission

    24 min
  8. Ten Strings, Infinite Possibilities: Hamilton de Holanda's Choro Revolution

    JAN 12

    Ten Strings, Infinite Possibilities: Hamilton de Holanda's Choro Revolution

    In this episode, host Steve Roby sits down with Grammy-winning Brazilian mandolin virtuoso Hamilton de Holanda to discuss his innovative approach to the 10-string bandolim, the deep connections between choro and jazz, and his upcoming SFJAZZ performance.   Episode Highlights: Hamilton shares his musical upbringing in a family where instruments were his childhood toys, receiving his first mandolin as a Christmas gift at age five in 1981. He discusses the power of the trio format with drummer Big Bel and keyboardist Thiago Alves, calling it the "perfect formation" that allows complete musical freedom. The conversation explores two featured tracks from Hamilton's Latin Grammy-winning live album, recorded in New York City: "Afro Choro" – Composed during the 2020 pandemic as part of a prolific period in which Hamilton wrote over 300 songs, this piece celebrates the African roots of choro music and features a stunning improvisation by saxophonist Chris Potter that bridges Brazilian and American jazz traditions. "o1 Byte 10 Cordas" – Inspired by Hamilton's stepson (a tech genius who also plays the 10-string mandolin) and the classic Afro Sambas album by Baden Powell and Vinicius de Moraes, this composition reflects Hamilton's philosophy of bridging tradition and modernity. Hamilton describes his artistic mission as finding "the perfect way to play between the modern and the traditional," a philosophy that extends beyond music into his daily life.   Upcoming Performance: Hamilton de Holanda Trio SF Jazz Center – Miner Auditorium Friday, January 16th at 7:30 PM   The trio will perform selections from their Latin Grammy-winning live album plus brand new compositions written during their current U.S. tour. Expect an evening of virtuosic musicianship, deep Brazilian tradition, and fearless improvisation. Get Tickets: https://www.sfjazz.org/tickets/productions/25-26/hamilton-de-holanda-trio/   Keeping Jazz Alive in the 415. We’re Backstage Bay Area!

    28 min
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4.8
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About

Backstage Bay Area is an exclusive podcast that explores San Francisco’s jazz music scene in depth. It features intimate interviews with emerging and established artists. The program also offers a unique glimpse into the artists' creative processes, inspirations, and upcoming projects.

Information

  • Creator
    Backstage Bay Area
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2026
  • Episodes
    304
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Backstage Bay Area
  • Show Website
    Songs & Stories