In the Key of Latin Jazz

Heat things up with In the Key of Latin Jazz. Each month, hear from a guest who lives and breathes the heart of this music.

Tomás Martín López 04/01/2025

Tomás Martín López WUCF’s April artist for ‘In the Key of Latin Jazz’ is Tomás Martín López. Percussionist from Brooklyn who has worked with Louie Ramirez, Ray de la Paz, Billy Cobham and Oscar Hernandez. They say ‘the best things come in threes’ and that is the case with “Right Here” - Lopez’s latest record. Whether he’s traveling globally to spread his love for the salsa scene or staying state side and collaborating with his brother – he is always attuned to the music. /episode/index/show/0ac39a83-2d89-454a-a778-da5b33d9cf54/id/35857920

Renee Rosnes 03/01/2025

Renee Rosnes WUCF’s March artist for ‘In the Key of Latin Jazz’ is Renee Rosnes. Pianist and composer from Canada who has had an astonishing four decade career. With a resume that includes Wayne Shorter band, Ron Carter Foursight Quartet, Blue Note Records’ Out of the Blue and Carnegie Hall Jazz Orchestra...she’s a force to be reckoned with. Her ability to hear every single note is what Bill Charlap calls ‘perfect hearing’. Her newest record “Crossing Paths” proves how extraordinary she can be not only as a composer but as an arranger. /episode/index/show/0ac39a83-2d89-454a-a778-da5b33d9cf54/id/35414660

Joyce Moreno 02/02/2025

Joyce Moreno WUCF’s February artist for ‘In the Key of Latin Jazz’ is Joyce Moreno. Described by Jobim as “one of the best singers of all time” - this Brazilian singer songwriter and guitarist is a famous trailblazer. During a time of fear, control and possession – she proudly spoke her truth. Feminina catapulted her media exposure and is loved by so many. Outside of Brazil, her work has been recorded by the likes of Annie Lennox, The Black-Eyed Peas, Gerry Mulligan and more. With forty-six albums, four Latin Grammy nominations and over four hundred songs...Moreno is an unstoppable force. /episode/index/show/0ac39a83-2d89-454a-a778-da5b33d9cf54/id/35073300

Dred Scott 01/01/2025

Dred Scott WUCF’s January artist for ‘In the Key of Latin Jazz’ is Dred Scott - a multi-instrumentalist who has cut his teeth on both coasts. Referred to as the ‘maestro of mayhem’, his restless and frenetic energy is intertwined with his passion. He’s collaborated with Liza Minnelli, composed for the film “Home” - featuring Woody Allen, Rosie Perez, Liam Neeson and more – recorded eleven albums as a leader and performed on over fifty others. His latest work is a testament to the enduring power of Latin jazz and an exploration of his love for the genre. It is vibrant, playful and rich – it is everything we needed! /episode/index/show/0ac39a83-2d89-454a-a778-da5b33d9cf54/id/34354755

Miguel Zenón 12/01/2024

Miguel Zenón WUCF’s December artist for ‘In the Key of Latin Jazz’ is Miguel Zenón. He is a prolific saxophonist and composer who took home the Grammy for Best Latin Jazz Album this year and is a recipient of the Guggenheim and McArthur fellowships. Hailing from Puerto Rico, he now resides in New York City. He is a founding member of the San Francisco Jazz Collective and his latest record focuses on the magic of the Golden City. /episode/index/show/0ac39a83-2d89-454a-a778-da5b33d9cf54/id/34142411

Kemuel Roig 11/01/2024

Kemuel Roig WUCF’s November artist for ‘In the Key of Latin Jazz’ is Kemuel Roig. Born in Cuba and now a resident of Miami - he has earned high praise as a first call pianist. He toured with Arturo Sandoval for eight years, Chucho Valdes calls him "Superman" and his debut record as a leader "Genesis" is a personal reflection of his relocation. It features Randy Brecker, Chris Potter, Ed Calle, Alain Perez, Julio Padron, Joel Hernandez, Milton Sesenton and Mercy Brass. /episode/index/show/0ac39a83-2d89-454a-a778-da5b33d9cf54/id/33674337

Eliane Elias and Alex Diaz 10/01/2024

Eliane Elias and Alex Diaz WUCF’s October artists for ‘In the Key of Latin Jazz’ are Eliane Elias and Alex Diaz. In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month (through October 15) we’ve put together a special episode. With records like “The Three Americas”, “Bossa Nova Stories” and “Mirror Mirror” - Eliane has always celebrated not only the sounds of her country but others that make up Latin Jazz and the cultures behind it. Our Latin Jazz DJ – Alex Diaz – dives into the importance of representation on the air waves and what it means to be celebrating another year with us! /episode/index/show/0ac39a83-2d89-454a-a778-da5b33d9cf54/id/33222972

Karrin Allyson 09/01/2024

Karrin Allyson WUCF’s September artist for ‘In the Key of Latin Jazz’ is Karrin Allyson. A child of the American Heartland, she’s lived in New York for the past three decades and considers herself a global citizen. In her newest record, she comes back to her love for Brazilian music and brings on the great Rosa Passos. What was meant to be a couple recordings turned into a full-blown project. Whether it’s classical, folk, jazz or rock – she appreciates good music and continues to enrapture us with her own. /episode/index/show/0ac39a83-2d89-454a-a778-da5b33d9cf54/id/32694487

Oscar Hernández 08/01/2024

Oscar Hernández WUCF’s August artist for ‘In the Key of Latin Jazz’ is Oscar Hernández. As leader of the Spanish Harlem Orchestra the past 22 years – his contributions to Latin Jazz stretch far and wide. On top of this incredible feat, he is a four-time Grammy winner, worked with people like Celia Cruz, Willie Colón and Paul Simon and is responsible for the piano in the ‘Sex and the City’ theme song! His latest record “No Words Needed” is also what can be said about his career. Truly a living legend in our midst. /episode/index/show/0ac39a83-2d89-454a-a778-da5b33d9cf54/id/32282677

Fernando Huergo 07/01/2024

Fernando Huergo WUCF’s July artist for ‘In the Key of Latin Jazz’ is Fernando Huergo. This Argentinian bassist has worked with everyone from Horacio Hernandez and David Liebman to Paquito D’Rivera and Richie Flores. His new album was inspired by a phrase he read in The New Yorker and captures the feeling he feels as he sees the news and all the absurd and grotesque things that continue to occur. We discuss his big band sound, the history of the chacarera and his thoughts on the future of Latin Jazz. /episode/index/show/0ac39a83-2d89-454a-a778-da5b33d9cf54/id/31869197

Ruben Caban 06/01/2024

Ruben Caban WUCF’s June artist for ‘In the Key of Latin Jazz’ is Ruben Caban. Born in Puerto Rico but now in Florida, this trombonist has toured as a sidemen or soloist with a wide variety of artists...effortlessly moving within genres. His role as an educator spans multiple universities and colleges. His latest record “Kangana” enlists the help of notable players like Nestor Torres, Ed Calle and Tal Cohen. /episode/index/show/0ac39a83-2d89-454a-a778-da5b33d9cf54/id/31460037

Claudia Villela 05/01/2024

Claudia Villela WUCF’s May artist for ‘In the Key of Latin Jazz’ is Claudia Villela. This Brasilian singer has a deep connection to her roots as well as nature. In her latest record “Letters to the Wind”, she returns back to the homeland to record with a dynamite group of musicians. Channeling memories, she improvises with mastery and produced a collection that speaks for itself. She lives in the Bay Area and continues to perform around the world. /episode/index/show/0ac39a83-2d89-454a-a778-da5b33d9cf54/id/30987283

Sonido Solar 04/01/2024

Sonido Solar Our April feature guest is Sonido Solar. With Eddie Palmieri in their corner, this nine-piece band has made headway with their originality while also paying homage to their predecessors. We sit down with two leaders – Louis Fouché and Luques Curtis – and find out their back stories, the process of their debut record and what Eddie is like when you peel back the curtain. /episode/index/show/0ac39a83-2d89-454a-a778-da5b33d9cf54/id/30580273

Donald Vega 03/01/2024

Donald Vega WUCF’s March artist for ‘In the Key of Latin Jazz’ is Donald Vega. Classically trained in his native Nicaragua, Vega makes the journey to America and goes on to attend Manhattan School of Music, Juilliard and University of Southern California. He’s studied with Billy Higgins, Al McKibbon, Kenny Barron and currently plays with Ron Carter’s Golden Striker Trio. His new album - ‘As I Travel’ - is a tribute to his own immigration story – and is about a voyage – both geographically and intangibly. /episode/index/show/0ac39a83-2d89-454a-a778-da5b33d9cf54/id/30138328

Carlos Henriquez 02/01/2024

Carlos Henriquez WUCF’s February artist for ‘In the Key of Latin Jazz’ is Carlos Henriquez. This Bronx born bassist has graced over 25 albums of the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra where he also serves as Artistic Director. As a leader he has garnered a Grammy nomination and his latest album - “A Nuyorican Tale” tells the tales of Puerto Rican and Nuyorican heritage both struggles and triumphs within New York’s vibrant tapestry. /episode/index/show/0ac39a83-2d89-454a-a778-da5b33d9cf54/id/29734548

Gonzalo Rubalcaba 01/01/2024

Gonzalo Rubalcaba WUCF’s January artist for ‘In the Key of Latin Jazz’ is Gonzalo Rubalcaba. Both his father and grandfather are very important to the development of the Latin Jazz we know today. His career has had him alongside Ron Carter, Charlie Haden, Chick Corea and more. As a leader, he’s given us over 30 albums– continuously delivering and offering something new. /episode/index/show/0ac39a83-2d89-454a-a778-da5b33d9cf54/id/29153603

Hilario Durán 12/01/2023

Hilario Durán WUCF’s December artist for ‘In the Key of Latin Jazz’ is Hilario Durán. This Cuban jazz pianist played with the Orquesta Cubana de Musicana Moderna, Arturo Sandoval, United Nations Orchestra, Jane Bunnett and more. His latest album brings back the big band sound! We discuss players like Chucho Valdez, Charles Mingus and Dizzy Gillespie who have influenced him. /episode/index/show/0ac39a83-2d89-454a-a778-da5b33d9cf54/id/28845978

Alfredo Rodriguez 11/01/2023

Alfredo Rodriguez WUCF’s November artist for ‘In the Key of Latin Jazz’ is Alfredo Rodriguez. Born in Cuba, he eventually left the familiar to take a chance on his career – with the aid of Quincy Jones – and look at him now! His latest album - ‘Coral Way’ - is a testament to his new life in which he celebrates the collaboration and connection between mainstream Latin music and Latin jazz. /episode/index/show/0ac39a83-2d89-454a-a778-da5b33d9cf54/id/28449431

Sammy Figueroa 10/01/2023

Sammy Figueroa WUCF’s October artist for ‘In the Key of Latin Jazz’ is Sammy Figueroa. One of the world’s greatest congueros! His work with everyone from Sonny Rollins and Miles Davis to Whitney Houston and the Bee Gees will forever be highly regarded. It was in Florida where he established his solo career leading ‘His Latin Jazz Explosion’ band. His latest project pays homage to his late father – Charlie Figueroa – who was known for his romantic boleros. /episode/index/show/0ac39a83-2d89-454a-a778-da5b33d9cf54/id/28150385

Edward Simon and Magos Herrera 09/01/2023

Edward Simon and Magos Herrera WUCF’s September artists for ‘In the Key of Latin Jazz’ are Edward Simon and Magos Herrera. Living on opposite sides of the country, they found a way to come together for a striking homage to female Latin American songwriters. “Femininas” is given a jazz treatment while still carrying the foundation of their respective beginnings. /episode/index/show/0ac39a83-2d89-454a-a778-da5b33d9cf54/id/27851544

Ella and the Bossa Beat 08/01/2023

Ella and the Bossa Beat WUCF’s August artist for ‘In the Key of Latin Jazz’ is Ella and the Bossa Beat. An international father/daughter duo who brings a modern take on Brazilian, soulful Jazz and Pop music. Having spent a lot of time in Magrus’ home country of Brazil, they now reside in Florida where you can see them perform all over. Their latest record “In the Moment” has captured us all and we are wanting more! /episode/index/show/0ac39a83-2d89-454a-a778-da5b33d9cf54/id/27577266

Bobby Sanabria 07/01/2023

Bobby Sanabria WUCF’s July artist for ‘In the Key of Latin Jazz’ is Bobby Sanabria. This eight time Grammy nominated multi talented artist has reached high acclaim repeatedly with his art and his fight. He fought to reinstate the Latin Jazz category at the Grammys after it was absent at the 2012 awards - and succeeded. He’s worked with Mario Bauza, Mongo Santamaria, Dizzy Gillespie, Tito Puente, and more in addition to leading bands of his own. His newest record “Vox Humana” is the big band’s most ambitious work to date. /episode/index/show/0ac39a83-2d89-454a-a778-da5b33d9cf54/id/27315450

Lauren Henderson 06/01/2023

Lauren Henderson WUCF’s June artist for ‘In the Key of Latin Jazz’ is Lauren Henderson. Based in New York and Miami, she is a 36 year old vocalist with Caribbean and Panamanian roots who created her own record label at the start of her career. A station favorite, she gives us the inside scoop on life in New England, magic and mysticism. Recently she was recognized by the Recording Academy as one of the artists expanding the sounds of Latin America. Her newest record “Conjuring” is available now. /episode/index/show/0ac39a83-2d89-454a-a778-da5b33d9cf54/id/26964933

Rachel Therrien 05/01/2023

Rachel Therrien WUCF’s May artist for ‘In the Key of Latin Jazz’ is Rachel Therrien. She is a JUNO nominated trumpet and flugelhorn player. A fixture in both the NYC and Montreal scenes, she has continued to hold her own and delight with her personal signature. Her newest record - ‘Mi Hogar’ - features over twenty musicians that came together for her sixth record but first Latin Jazz project. /episode/index/show/0ac39a83-2d89-454a-a778-da5b33d9cf54/id/26639013

Justo Almario 04/01/2023

Justo Almario WUCF’s April artist for ‘In the Key of Latin Jazz' is Justo Almario. Immersing himself in music at a young age - he dabbled in drums, piccolo and short clarinet before settling on sax and flute. After graduating from Berklee, Mongo Santamaria asked him to join his band. He has performed with Roy Ayers, Fela Kuti, The Commodores, Tito Puente, Linda Rondstadt and many more. Coming up on April 30 – he’ll be at the DTO Jazz Fest in Orlando to celebrate International Jazz Day. Don’t miss it! /episode/index/show/0ac39a83-2d89-454a-a778-da5b33d9cf54/id/26334516

Elio Villafranca 03/01/2023

Elio Villafranca WUCF’s March artist for ‘In the Key of Latin Jazz’ is Elio Villafranca. Hailing from San Luis, Pinar del Rio, Cuba – Elio was drawn to jazz and found a way to record every radio program he could. Coming from a country where it was illegal at the time, jazz opened up a whole new world for him. From leading his own bands, to working with Chick Corea- his contributions to modern jazz are impactful. Life has given him many crossroads, which he channels in his newest record featuring Cecile McLorin Salvant and more. /episode/index/show/0ac39a83-2d89-454a-a778-da5b33d9cf54/id/26080905

Dafnis Prieto and Luciana Souza 02/01/2023

Dafnis Prieto and Luciana Souza WUCF’s February artists for ‘In the Key of Latin Jazz’ are Dafnis Prieto and Luciana Souza. Cuban American drummer and composer Dafnis had a vision for his next album and it involved going somewhere he hadn’t ventured before...lyrics. Enter Luciana – who grew up in a Bossa Nova family and is well versed in transcending boundaries of musical styles. Together they brought us “Cantar” - a record complete with three languages that brings cheerfulness, intimacy and imagination. /episode/index/show/0ac39a83-2d89-454a-a778-da5b33d9cf54/id/25753185

Alex Acuña 01/01/2023

Alex Acuña WUCF’s January artist for ‘In the Key of Latin Jazz’is Alex Acuña. Named the best Latin percussionist five years in a rowfrom Modern Drummer Readers Poll, Acuña has had quite theillustrious career. Born into a musical family, his drive to immersehimself into different cultures led him to become a versatile andgracious player. From Elvis and Ella Fitzgerald to more contemporaryartists like Christina Aguilera and U2–he has shown he’s here to stay. /episode/index/show/0ac39a83-2d89-454a-a778-da5b33d9cf54/id/25467702

Arturo Sandoval 12/01/2022

Arturo Sandoval WUCF’s December artist for ‘In the Key of Latin Jazz’ is Arturo Sandoval. Born in Cuba, where he was forbidden to play or listen to jazz, Arturo relished any moment he could get to be around music. Forming the band Irakere, he then went on to become a ten-time Grammy winner, form a closebond with the late Dizzy Gillespie and play with the best as he polished his virtuoso abilities on trumpet, flugelhorn and the piano. /episode/index/show/0ac39a83-2d89-454a-a778-da5b33d9cf54/id/25114272

Roberto Menescal and Daniela Soledade 11/01/2022

Roberto Menescal and Daniela Soledade WUCF’s November artists for ‘In the Key of Latin Jazz’ are Roberto Menescal and Daniela Soledade. Two of Brazil’s national treasures who are instrumental to the Bossa Nova movement. Two different generations come together to collaborate on Daniela’s new record “Pretty World.” We dive into what they admire most about each other and the evolution of Latin jazz – and beyond. /episode/index/show/0ac39a83-2d89-454a-a778-da5b33d9cf54/id/24796581

In the Key of Latin Jazz

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