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Remembering Jazz Critic Leonard Feather

Feather, one of the world's most prominent jazz critics died of pneumonia, yesterday at the age of 80. He grew up in England and moved to America in 1940. His most important writing was his encylopedia of jazz, an essential reference work of musician bios. Feather spent his final months editing a new edition, which is scheduled for publication next year. Feather also produced about 200 recording sessions, composed for many of the musicians he worked with, and even played piano on some of their sessions. Throughout his career, he campaigned on behalf of women in jazz, and worked for racial equality in field. We remember him with this 1987 interview.

16:21
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Other segments from the episode on September 23, 1994

Fresh Air with Terry Gross, September 23, 1994: Interview with Barbara Lea and Tony Tamburello; Obituary for Leonard Feather; Review of the film "The New Age."
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21:02

Singer Barbara Lea Pays Tribute to Cole Porter

Lea started singing in the 1950s; she recorded her first album in 1955 to critical acclaim. After a hiatus from music, she made a comeback during the 70s in New York's cabaret world. This concert with Lea and pianist Tony Tamburello was recorded in 1991, in celebration of Cole Porter's 100th birthday.

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Desegregating Jazz

British music critic and producer Leonard Feather worked with fellow producer John Hammond to desegregate jazz in the United States, as well as to promote women jazz musicians. In his new book, The Jazz Years, he considers how racism, radio stations and record labels affected the popularity of different styles like big band and bebop.

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