Kyle Long

Host Kyle Long speaks with actor William Shatner about his connection to Indiana, his work in public radio, and the legacy of Star Trek, which celebrates its 60th anniversary this year. Plus Shatner’s new album with country star Brad Paisley and an upcoming heavy metal project featuring songs by Metallica and Ozzy Osbourne.

Listen to an interview with Niladri Kumar, one of India’s most celebrated sitar players. Kyle Long talks with Kumar about his musical partnership with the late tabla virtuoso Zakir Hussain, his work in Bollywood film music, and the creation of the Zitar. Kumar will pay tribute to Zakir Hussain in concert on October 18 at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Central Indiana.

Hear a tribute to Indianapolis pianist and bandleader Millard Lee, a fixture of the Indiana Avenue music scene during the 1940s. Lee performed at clubs including the Sunset Terrace, the Cotton Club, and the 440 Club. He later joined B.B. King’s band, working as a pianist and bandleader from the mid-1950s until 1961.

Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with words and music celebrating the Latin music pioneers of Northwest Indiana, including Juan Manuel Guerrero, Adela Dalto, Santos Candelaria and Omar Apollo.

Enjoy a tribute to Indianapolis rhythm and blues singer Iona Wade. A star of the Indiana Avenue scene during the 1940s, the Indianapolis Recorder called Wade Naptown’s “sweet songbird” and “the little girl with the big voice.” Over a career spanning more than 20 years, she performed with some of the greatest musicians in American music.

Listen to an interview with members of Clave Caribe, a Lafayette, Indiana band that has been performing Latin music for 20 years. Founded by Puerto Rican musician “Tito” Toro after he moved to Lafayette in 2006, the group brings together musicians from different countries and musical backgrounds. Their repertoire includes salsa, cumbia, bachata, samba, and more. Host Kyle Long talks with Toro, vocalist Sandra Úsuga, and percussionist Nolan Warden about the band’s history and its place in Lafayette’s music community.

Explore the life and music of Winston Walls, one of the most remarkable Hammond B-3 organists to emerge from the golden age of soul jazz. He appeared often in the Avenue neighborhood — playing gigs at The Queen of Clubs, The West End, and Walker Theatre. We'll share never-before-heard performances by Walls, recorded live in Indianapolis.

Kyle Long previews Indy Jazz Fest with two dynamic drummers and percussionists. Sheila E. discusses her roots in jazz and Latin music, and the musical family that shaped her career. And Nikki Glaspie talks about the gospel, funk, punk, and metal influences behind her drumming, her years touring with Beyoncé, and the lessons she’s learned from the legendary musicians like Maceo Parker and Chaka Khan.

Join host Rodney Stepp for music from Les "Bear" Taylor, featuring his work with Ella Fitzgerald, Bill Doggett, Floyd Smith, Mel Rhyne, Larry Clark, Bill Myers, and more. Taylor was a towering presence on the Indiana Avenue music scene — a big man with a big sound, and one of the most respected baritone sax players to come out of Naptown.

Indianapolis comedian, poet, author and victim advocate Claressa Patton, better known as Clara D, has made laughter an important part of her life and work. Patton talks with Kyle Long about her journey into comedy, her work as a victim advocate, and the role laughter has played in her own healing. She also discusses her book Healing in Pieces and her efforts to help others navigate grief and loss.