Jazz Break at Noon - December 2025

December 1 - 5

Stepping Into Tomorrow with Donald Byrd
This week on The Jazz Break at Noon, we celebrate the musical legacy of trumpeter, composer, and educator Donald Byrd (December 9, 1932 – February 4, 2013). Byrd was a relentless innovator whose career spanned the golden age of hard bop in the 1950s to the forefront of jazz-funk and fusion in the 1970s. A master of the trumpet with a warm, lyrical tone, he began as a straight-ahead virtuoso, recording classic sessions for Blue Note Records. Brilliant recordings that defined the hard bop era including Royal Flush, The Cat Walk, and A New Perspective.

However, Byrd never stood still. Driven by a desire to connect with new audiences and mentor the next generation, he famously embraced R&B, funk, and soul in the 1970s. Collaborating with one-time Motown producers, The Mizell Brothers, and his students at Howard University (who formed The Blackbyrds), he created a string of chart-topping, groove-heavy albums that became anthems of the era including Places and Spaces, Stepping Into Tomorrow, and Black Byrd. Join us as we trace the evolution of a jazz giant, trumpeter Donald Byrd. Hosted by JJ Lopez. 

December 8 – 12

Joe Lovano: A Retrospective of a Modern Master
This week on The Jazz Break at Noon, we present a retrospective of one of the most commanding voices in modern jazz: tenor saxophonist Joe Lovano. Born in Cleveland, Ohio, on December 29, 1952, Lovano grew up immersed in jazz, eventually evolving into a titan who bridges the lineage of Coleman Hawkins and John Coltrane with the adventurous spirit of the avant-garde. His sound, robust, lyrical, and deeply soulful, has defined the texture of modern jazz for over four decades.

Our sonic survey traces his journey from the early days with Dr. Lonnie Smith to his prolific and Grammy-winning tenure as a leader on Blue Note Records. We will explore his celebrated collaborations with guitarists John Scofield and Bill Frisell, his innovative trio work with Paul Motian, and his deep dives into the Great American Songbook with his Nonet, including dynamic, forward-thinking works with Us Five. Join us as we celebrate the expansive artistry of a true modern master, saxophonist Joe Lovano. Hosted by JJ Lopez.