Jazz Break at Noon Archive - June 23-27, 2025

Archived Broadcast: June 23-27, 2025

This week on The Jazz Break at Noon, we pay tribute to the extraordinary vocalist and pianist, Andy Bey, who passed away on April 26, 2025.

A truly singular talent, Bey's music was defined by its profound intelligence, captivating sensitivity, and unmistakable, soulful originality. With a remarkable four-octave baritone voice and a deeply nuanced piano style, he crafted performances both rooted in the rich jazz tradition and boldly exploratory, venturing into the realms of the blues, soul jazz and funk.

Throughout his decades-long career—from his early work with the "Andy and the Bey Sisters" trio to acclaimed solo albums like Ballads, Blues & Bey and The World According to Andy Bey—he continuously pushed artistic boundaries and expression. His unique interpretations of the American Songbook and collaborations with jazz luminaries like Horace Silver and Gary Bartz left an indelible mark on the world of vocal jazz.

Listen to the full broadcast playback below!

Monday

Joan Carroll and JJ Lopez feature early works from Andy Bey including selections from the Bey Sister and Andy’s 1970s collaborations with Duke Pearson, Max Roach, and Horace Silver plus selections from his debut recording.

Tuesday 

Joan and JJ feature Andy’s 1990s recordings in a solo setting as well as with great ensembles.

Wednesday 

Joan and JJ feature selections from Andy in a live setting plus more selections from his time as a bandleader.

Thursday

Joan and JJ are joined by long-time friend of Andy Bey’s, Gerry Gibbs and talk about their friendship. Plus, they take a call from Saxophonist Gary Bartz live on the air for an exclusive interview about Andy and Gary’s time together in the 1970s!

Friday

Joan and JJ end the week featuring selections from Andy’s final recording plus soundbites from an interview that Joan hosted in 2005 in Houston TX with Andy! Tune in for this special feature!