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The music of Indiana jazz trumpeter Reunald Jones – Part 1
June 22, 2025
Listen to the first episode in our three-part series exploring the music of Reunald Jones, an important jazz trumpet player with deep connections to the Avenue neighborhood. In this show, we’ll hear Jones’ early recordings with Mezz Mezzrow, Lil Hardin, Don Redman, Jimmie Lunceford and more.
The musical legacy of the Phyllis Wheatley YWCA
June 15, 2025
In April of 2025, a new Indiana state historical marker was placed in the Indiana Avenue neighborhood honoring the history of the Phillis Wheatley YWCA. During the era of segregation, it was a crucial institution for Black women in Indianapolis, providing a safe space for community, education, and advocacy, and was one of the neighborhood’s premier classical music venues. Listen to rare recordings from artists who performed there in this episode.
Exploring the history of female impersonators on the Avenue
June 8, 2025
Celebrate Pride month by looking back at the history of female impersonators and drag queens on the Avenue. Listen to rare recordings featuring the work of female impersonators connected to the Avenue scene, along with interviews featuring Avenue artists who worked alongside them.
Remembering Naptown funk musician DeMorris “DeGe” Smith
June 1, 2025
In May of 2025, the Indianapolis keyboardist DeMorris “DeGe” Smith passed away. Smith was a beloved figure in the Naptown funk scene, known for his soulful keyboard work and his dedication to the local music community. Join us as we pay tribute to Smith with music featuring his work as a funk keyboardist.
Phil Ranelin – Part 3: Remembering his work and friendship with Freddie Hubbard
May 25, 2025
Enjoy the final episode in our three-part series exploring the music of Phil Ranelin, a legendary Indianapolis jazz trombonist. On this edition, Ranelin will discuss his lifelong friendship with jazz star Freddie Hubbard.
Phil Ranelin – Part 2: Reflecting on his work with Wes Montgomery
May 18, 2025
Phil Ranelin reflects on his work with Wes Montgomery and performing on Indiana Avenue. He will also discuss how his work has been embraced by a new generation of musicians, including Madlib, Kamasi Washington, and Carlos Niño.
Phil Ranelin – Part 1: New releases and return to Indianapolis
May 11, 2025
Celebrate the anniversary of Phil Ranelin’s birthday by exploring his work in music. Listen to a recent interview he recorded with WFYI’s Kyle Long, along with classic recordings from his discography and recent releases, including "The Found Tapes: Live in Los Angeles” and “Tribe 2000.”
The early years of Ebony Rhythm Funk Campaign’s Lester Johnson
May 4, 2025
This week on Echoes of Indiana, we're joined by bassist and Ebony Rhythm Funk Campaign co-founder Lester Johnson to reflect on his early years in music.
Naptown pianists Herve Duerson and Turner Parrish
April 27, 2025
Listen to music from Herve Duerson and Turner Parrish, two important pianists who were active in the Indianapolis scene during the 1920s and ’30s.
Indianapolis music legends discuss the history of Naptown funk
April 20, 2025
WFYI recently hosted a screening of the new PBS documentary WE WANT THE FUNK! at the Kan-Kan Cinema. The film explores the history of funk music, from its early jazz roots to its rise into popular culture. Before the screening, WFYI’s Kyle Long moderated a panel discussion. Listen to excerpts from that conversation and music from legendary Indianapolis funk bands.
Indiana Avenue’s Bohemian Club
April 13, 2025
During the mid-20th Century, social clubs played a large role in the Black music scene of Indianapolis, hosting major concerts and dances across the city. One of the earliest to make an impact was The Bohemian Club. Celebrate its history by listening to music from artists who performed at their events.
Freddie Hubbard rap samples
April 6, 2025
Celebrate the birthday of iconic jazz trumpet player, Freddie Hubbard, born in Indianapolis in 1938. Hubbard’s technical mastery of the trumpet earned widespread critical acclaim, and his influence extends beyond jazz, shaping hip-hop as well. His recordings have been sampled by some of rap’s most respected artists, including A Tribe Called Quest, Raekwon, Common, J Dilla, and MF DOOM.
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