Apr 9, 2021
Sammy Stein is a noted columnist, reviewer and author, writing about music, mostly jazz, but also other genres. She is the International Editor for the Jazz Journalists Association. Her books include Women In Jazz, which won the Jazz Times Distaff Award, made their Gearhead list and was Phace Magazines' Music Book of The Year. She has run a music festival and also worked on several radio shows, including the acclaimed Women In Jazz series for Jazzbites.
Her most recent book tackles a subject that haunts so many of us: the impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the lives and careers of musicians. Pause, Play, Repeat is commentary and interviews with musicians from various genres, including the likes of Ivo Perelman and Champion Fulton from the world of jazz. Through insightful discussions, Sammy gets her subjects to not only tell of the difficulties they have faced – economic, professional, emotional – but also the positive things that have come out of cancelled gigs and lockdowns. It’s an illuminating read.
Podcast 810 is my conversation with Sammy Stein, as we discuss her books, and the many artists who have shared insight with her over the years, including the legendary Sheila Jordan (a musical selection from Ms. Jordan is included, her iconic take on “Date Dere”). For more information about Ms. Stein and to order copies of her books, please check out her website here.