Kenny Dorham Biography | Robert Pallitto & John Melendez Interview | Whistle Stop (2026)

Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series featuring co-authors Robert Pallitto and John Melendez, discussing their acclaimed 2026 book, Whistle Stop: The Life of Kenny Dorham.

In this fascinating conversation, we take a deep dive into the first full-length biography of legendary jazz trumpeter Kenny Dorham—one of the most influential yet often overlooked architects of modern jazz. From his roots in rural Texas to the forefront of the bebop revolution, Dorham's remarkable story is finally given the depth and attention it deserves.

Political science professor Robert Pallitto joins forces with his son, John Melendez, to create a biography that combines meticulous historical research with a deep appreciation for jazz. Together, they trace Dorham's journey through the worlds of bebop, hard bop, and post-war American culture while exploring themes of artistic innovation, racial justice, resilience, and creativity.

The authors discuss Dorham's collaborations with jazz giants including Charlie Parker, Dizzy Gillespie, Thelonious Monk, Max Roach, Sonny Rollins, and **Joe Henderson>, along with the lasting impact he had on the evolution of jazz.

If you love jazz history, bebop, biographies, American music, or stories about the pioneers who shaped modern jazz, this interview is essential viewing.

Get the book:
https://www.upress.state.ms.us/Books/W/Whistle-Stop

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Spike Wilner Interview & Tour | Inside NYC's New Jazz Cultural Club | Barry Harris Legacy Lives On

Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series featuring acclaimed pianist, educator, jazz advocate, and club owner Spike Wilner.

In this special episode, Spike gives us an exclusive tour of Jazz Cultural, one of New York City's newest and most exciting jazz venues, located on legendary Restaurant Row just steps from Times Square. More than just a jazz club, Jazz Cultural is a vibrant performance space, community gathering place, and educational hub dedicated to preserving and advancing the rich tradition of jazz.

Inspired by the legendary Barry Harris and his beloved Jazz Cultural Theater, which operated in Chelsea during the 1980s and 1990s, Spike has created a venue that honors Harris' lifelong commitment to jazz education, mentorship, and artistic excellence. The club combines a welcoming café and bar with a state-of-the-art, 90-seat performance room where some of the world's finest jazz musicians perform in an intimate setting.

During our conversation, Spike shares the vision behind Jazz Cultural, the importance of keeping New York City's jazz tradition thriving, the influence of Barry Harris, the challenges and rewards of opening a new jazz venue, and why creating an affordable home for musicians and audiences matters now more than ever.

Whether you're a lifelong jazz fan, planning a trip to New York City, or simply curious about the future of live jazz, this interview offers a fascinating look inside one of the city's newest cultural landmarks.

Learn more about Spike Wilner & Jazz Cultural

🌐 Jazz Cultural
https://www.jazzcultural.com/

📰 JazzTimes Feature
https://www.jazztimes.com/reviews/live/new-jazz-club-jazzcultural-launches-in-new-york/

📘 Spike Wilner on Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/spikewilner/

📸 Spike Wilner on Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/spikewilner/ 

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Adam Rose Interview | Holler Serenade | Jazz Guitarist Blends Asheville Jam Band Energy with Modern Jazz

Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series with North Carolina-based jazz guitarist, composer, and educator Adam Rose.

In this episode, we dive into his outstanding 2026 album Holler Serenade, a bold recording that brings together Asheville's vibrant jam band spirit with the sophistication of straight-ahead jazz. Recorded live in a single day with minimal preparation, the album embraces spontaneity, groove, and musical interaction, capturing the excitement of musicians creating in the moment.

Built around dance-driven rhythms, adventurous improvisation, and melodic storytelling, Holler Serenade showcases Adam's unique musical voice—one shaped by more than 20 years of performing, teaching, and composing. Originally from Philadelphia, Adam refined his artistry during his years in New York City before settling in North Carolina, where Asheville's rich musical culture has become a major influence on his sound.

During our conversation, we discuss the making of Holler Serenade, the creative process behind recording live in the studio, jazz improvisation, groove-based composition, music education, the Asheville music scene, and the journey that has defined Adam's career.

If you love modern jazz, jazz guitar, jam bands, improvisation, and conversations with today's most creative musicians, this is an interview you won't want to miss.

Listen to Holler Serenade
https://music.apple.com/us/album/holler-serenade/6771455627 

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Kae Wagner Interview | Build Authority Through Books | Publishing, Thought Leadership & Author Marketing

Welcome to a new edition of the Famous Interviews with Joe Dimino series. On this episode, we talk with author, entrepreneur, publisher, marketing strategist, and founder of The Bold Authors Network and The Bold Authors Book Agency, Kae Wagner.

Kae helps executives, entrepreneurs, consultants, coaches, and industry experts transform their knowledge into books that build authority, attract media attention, create speaking opportunities, and generate high-value clients. Her work goes beyond publishing—she helps professionals create complete thought-leadership platforms that elevate their visibility and influence.

As the founder of North Star Marketing, Kae has built a career spanning television production, advertising, strategic marketing, consulting, coaching, and publishing. Through The Bold Authors Network, she supports both fiction and nonfiction authors in promoting their books and growing their audiences. Through The Bold Authors Book Agency, she partners with executives and thought leaders to develop books that strengthen personal brands and accelerate business growth.

A bestselling fiction and nonfiction author herself, Kae brings firsthand publishing experience and practical marketing expertise to every client she serves.

In this conversation, we discuss book publishing, author branding, thought leadership, personal branding, book marketing, media strategy, entrepreneurship, business growth, speaking engagements, leadership, and why writing a book can become one of the most powerful business assets you own.

If you're an entrepreneur, executive, coach, consultant, aspiring author, or business owner looking to build credibility and grow your influence, this interview is packed with valuable insights.

Learn more about Kae Wagner & The Bold Authors Network
www.BoldAuthorsNetwork.com 
https://owntheinbox.club/

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Jason C. Johnson Sr. Interview | Faith, Leadership, Communication, Education & Digital Ministry

Welcome to a new edition of the Famous Interviews with Joe Dimino series. On this episode, we talk with author, conference speaker, communication and learning strategist, Jason C. Johnson Sr.

Jason is a licensed and ordained minister, education technologist, award-winning broadcaster, and lifelong student of Scripture whose mission is to help people discover the fullness of God in every area of life. Blending faith, education, technology, and communication, he has built a career dedicated to equipping others through biblical teaching, leadership, and practical wisdom.

His professional journey spans classroom teaching, curriculum development, instructional design, multimedia production, public speaking, and Christian media. Jason has taught middle and high school students in both traditional and special education settings, developed educational content across multiple disciplines, and served as a science, technology, and computer science educator.

In broadcasting, Jason is a former Christian radio personality and the creator and host of the award-winning syndicated podcast For the Love of Wisdom, recognized for excellence in communication and faith-based programming. 

In this inspiring conversation, we discuss his journey through ministry, education, media, leadership, biblical literacy, digital communication, technology, discipleship, personal growth, and how faith continues to shape his work and purpose.

If you're interested in Christian leadership, ministry, biblical teaching, education, communication, technology, or personal development through faith, this interview is filled with practical insight and encouragement.

Learn more about Jason C. Johnson Sr.
https://discerntheword.com/

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Karen Gray Interview | Illusion of Happiness | Author on Love, Memory, Healing & Emotional Survival

Welcome to a new edition of the Famous Interviews with Joe Dimino series. On this episode, we talk with lifelong writer, passionate reader, and novelist Karen Gray, author of the emotionally compelling novel Illusion of Happiness.

With a lifelong appreciation for storytelling and the richness of the human experience, Karen has devoted herself to creating fiction that explores love, loss, memory, resilience, and the emotional complexities of relationships. Her writing captures the quiet truths that shape our lives and reminds readers of the courage it takes to rediscover themselves.

Set against the vibrant backdrop of New York City and the peaceful landscapes of rural Connecticut, Illusion of Happiness is a moving story about longing, emotional survival, healing, and reclaiming your heart after life's unexpected turns. Karen now lives along the scenic coast of Rhode Island, where the tranquility of the water continues to inspire her creativity.

In this conversation, we discuss her writing journey, the inspiration behind Illusion of Happiness, character development, storytelling, relationships, creativity, the writing process, resilience, finding hope through fiction, and what continues to inspire her as an author.

If you enjoy contemporary fiction, women's fiction, emotional storytelling, book discussions, and conversations with inspiring authors, this interview is one you won't want to miss.

Learn more about Karen Gray
Author Website: https://www.karengraybooks.com/

Get Illusion of Happiness:
https://www.amazon.com/Illusion-Happiness-Karen-Gray-ebook/dp/B0G633ZWBQ/ref 

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Scott Williamson Interview | Sales Leadership, Business Growth, Human Edge Leadership & Peak Performance

Welcome to a new edition of the Famous Interviews with Joe Dimino series. On this episode, we talk with seasoned sales leader, speaker, facilitator, and leadership expert Scott Williamson.

With more than 30 years of experience, Scott has helped organizations unlock sustainable growth, elevate performance, and simplify complexity in today's rapidly changing business landscape. Throughout his career, he has partnered with Fortune 500 companies and high-growth organizations, building and leading high-performing sales teams across the United States and around the world.

A trusted voice in both corporate and academic settings, Scott has delivered keynote presentations, leadership workshops, and executive development programs for audiences ranging from intimate leadership teams to conferences of more than 500 attendees across five countries. 

In this conversation, we discuss leadership, sales excellence, organizational culture, team performance, communication, coaching, business strategy, personal growth, navigating change, and what separates great leaders from good ones. Scott also shares practical insights that leaders, entrepreneurs, sales professionals, and business owners can immediately apply to improve results and develop stronger teams.

If you're interested in leadership development, sales strategy, executive coaching, business growth, communication, or building high-performance organizations, this interview is packed with valuable takeaways.

Learn more about Scott Williamson
https://humanedgeleadership.org/

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