Best Black Classical Musicians Podcasts (2025)

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KDTime 127: Sci-Fi & Fantasy Not All That Glitters Is Galactic 1:12:31

17d ago1:12:31

1:12:31

From blue aliens to multiverse dinner parties, join in as I break down the good, the meh, and the massively underrated in sci-fi and fantasy. I'm calling out overrated hits (looking at you, Eternals), celebrating hidden gems like Coherence and The OA, and giving flowers to legends like The Matrix and Stranger Things. Plus, a mini-rant on shows that…

1
Opus 261 - From Music to Medicine (feat. Yuliana Lagunas) 54:55

27d ago54:55

54:55

Yuliana Lagunas is a rising star in the world of music as the concert mistress of the Inner-City Youth Orchestra of Los Angeles (ICYOLA), and hopes to use the leadership skills she's cultivated to become a leading pediatrician! She joins Loki to talk about her journey, so far, why ICYOLA has been important for her overall development, and what this…

1
KDTime 126: Battle of the Musicians 1:28:17

1M ago1:28:17

1:28:17

In this episode of KD Time, let's explore various musical rivalries that have defined eras in music. Let's get into the conversation that delves into the influence, legacy, and cultural impact of these artists. Join in as I highlight their contributions to hip-hop, pop, funk, and more as well as the lasting influence of their music. You choose!?! W…

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Opus 260 - "Seasons of Change" (feat. Curtis Stewart) 1:03:43

1M ago1:03:43

1:03:43

Curtis Stewart returns to TRILLOQUY to chat about his life since becoming Artistic Director of the American Composers Orchestra, his engagements with the Gateways Music Festival, and his newest work, "Seasons of Change". Loki speaks to what he thinks people should think about as it relates to current TV shows and movies that deal with group resista…

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KDTime 125: From LOL to WTH: Comedy Hits & Misses 53:33

1M ago53:33

53:33

Is it comedy gold… or fool’s gold? This week on KDTIME, let's dive headfirst into the wild world of comedy movies—from the ones that made us laugh till we cried, to the ones that made us cry for a refund. We’re breaking down: 🏆 The all-time greats (think Airplane!, Coming to America, Superbad) 💣 The infamous flops (The Love Guru, Gigli, Movie 43) 😬…

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Opus 259 - "Reflections of Resilience" (feat. Damien Sneed) 1:12:57

1M ago1:12:57

1:12:57

World-renowned musician, educator, performer, and composer, Damien Sneed, chats with Loki about his life, the power of existence, and the upcoming premiere of his new work, "Reflections of Resilience" by the Gateways Festival Orchestra. Loki speaks to dealing with feelings of "being left out" as Black communities grow within the field of classical …

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KDTime 124: Spring Break Throwback: TV Shows & Movies That Screamed Vacation 39:58

2M ago39:58

39:58

🎉 It’s time to throw it back to sun, sand, and spring break madness! In this episode of KDTIME, I dive into the most iconic spring break moments from TV and movies—think MTV Spring Break, The OC, Lizzie McGuire Movie, Spring Breakers, and more. 🌴✨ Let's talk about how pop culture hyped up the ultimate vacation and whether real life ever lived up to…

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Opus 258 - "Sedition Ensemble" (feat. Jessie Montgomery) 1:11:21

2M ago1:11:21

1:11:21

Loki chats with Grammy-winning composer Jessie Montgomery about her trajectory as an artist, the role her parents and broader New York community played in her development, maintaining a sense of authenticity through notoriety, and lots more. Loki responds to recent lay offs at the Kennedy Center. Support for TRILLOQUY comes from Boulanger Initiativ…

1
KDTime 123: From Page to Screen: Adaptation Hits & Misses 48:58

2M ago48:58

48:58

This episode is dedicated to my Grandmother Gloria, she was an amazing person who did so much in her life. She will be extremely missed by me and my family. I love you Grandma <3 In this episode, I dive into the fascinating world of book adaptations, exploring both iconic successes and controversial failures. Lets reflect on the impact of these ada…

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Opus 257 - Remembering Fernande Decruck (feat. Dr. Matthew Aubin) 1:12:35

2M ago1:12:35

1:12:35

Dr. Matthew Aubin has dedicated his research to raising awareness around the music of a French woman named Fernande Decruck, whose legacy has fallen into relative obscurity. He chats with Loki about his professional trajectory, his introduction to the music of Decruck, the new album featuring music of Decruck, and how he contextualizes his work wit…

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KDTime 122: Trailblazers of Sound: Music Queens Tribute 1:26:56

2M ago1:26:56

1:26:56

In this episode of KD Time, Let's Celebrate Women's History Month by discussing influential female artists who have changed the music industry. Each artist's unique contributions, cultural significance, and evolution in their careers are discussed, highlighting their influence on music and society. WHO is your favorite or most influential Music Que…

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Introducing IMO with Michelle Obama and Craig Robinson 54:26

3M ago54:26

54:26

Introducing a new show hosted by the incomparable Michelle Obama and her big brother Craig Robinson, called IMO. If you loved hearing Michelle recall her years sifting through her grandfather’s record collection, playing his Stevie Wonder albums over and over…Then you will be thrilled to hear Michelle and Craig reminisce on growing up together. On …

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Opus 256 - "The Voice of Whitney" (feat. Sean Mayes) 1:03:15

3M ago1:03:15

1:03:15

Loki chats with Maestro Sean Mayes to unpack Black identity north of the "American" border, his work with the Pops of Color Orchestra, the power of Whitney Houston's music in a symphonic setting, and more! Loki also speaks on the idea of relevance in classical music. Sean Mayes The Voice of Whitney at Town Hall Pops of Color Orchestra "It's Not Rig…

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Opus 255 - "SEVENTEEN" (feat. Portia Kamons and Ron Ramin) 1:00:19

3M ago1:00:19

1:00:19

Loki chats with librettist/producer Portia Kamons and composer Ron Ramin about their joint venture with the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra, designed to meaningfully engage Generation Z. Loki shares the reasoning behind his return to "traditional" orchestral engagements. Ron Ramin Portia Kamons More on SEVENTEEN "SEVENTEEN" Promo Hungarian March fro…

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KDTime 121: Unforgivable Farewells: Tv Character Deaths that left us Heartbroken 1:34:36

3M ago1:34:36

1:34:36

In this episode, I explore controversial TV character deaths that left fans heartbroken and genuinely angry. Allow me to examine deaths that undermined character development, played into harmful tropes, or seemed motivated by behind-the-scenes drama rather than storytelling needs. Let's unpack why these particular exits resonated so negatively and …

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Opus 254 - "Discover Angelitos Negros" Part 2 (feat. Cheryl Warfield) 59:54

3M ago59:54

59:54

Loki chats with Cheryl Warfield about her career as a singer, her beginnings outside of the music industry, and her upcoming collaboration with The Discovery Orchestra for their presentation of "Discover Angelitos Negros" in celebration of Black History Month. Loki offers continued thoughts on the takeover of the Kennedy Center. The Discovery Orche…

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Opus 253 - "Discover Angelitos Negros" Part 1 (feat. George Marriner Maull) 1:02:55

3M ago1:02:55

1:02:55

Loki chats with George Marriner Maull, founder of the Discovery Orchestra, about his life, engaging new audiences through public media, and his upcoming Black History Month celebration concert: "Angelitos Negros". Loki shares his thoughts on the recent takeover of the Kennedy Center. The Discovery Orchestra George Marriner Maull New World Symphony …

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KDTime 120: The Evolution of Black Representation in Media 50:52

4M ago50:52

50:52

In this episode let's explore the evolution of Black representation in media! Highlighting historical challenges, significant milestones, and the ongoing fight for authentic storytelling. Listen in as I emphasize the need for more diverse voices in film and television, and the significance of representation for understanding the Black experience. I…

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Opus 252 - "Songs in Flight" (feat. Shawn E. Okpebholo) 1:07:18

4M ago1:07:18

1:07:18

Loki chats with composer Shawn E. Okpebholo about the idea of "music for music's sake", the importance he puts on responding to calls for social justice, and his latest release, "Songs in Flight". Loki compares backlash against Beyoncé's Grammy wins to society's general aversion to musical evolution and change. Support for TRILLOQUY comes from Feed…

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KDTime 119: Muppets Take On Classic Films 36:54

4M ago36:54

36:54

In this episode of KD Time, let's explore the whimsical idea of reimagining classic movies as Muppets remakes. Each film is creatively recast with Muppet characters, highlighting the absurdity and humor that could arise from such adaptations. I encourage you to use your imagination and take on the journey through a bit of nostalgia and wonder. If y…

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Opus 251 - "South Side Impresarios" (feat. Samantha Ege) 58:04

4M ago58:04

58:04

Loki chats with acclaimed musicologist and pianist Samantha Ege about her early engagement with music, her work highlighting and preserving the work of Black women in classical music, and her new book, "South Side Impresarios". Loki reacts to the idea of fighting against upcoming challenges in America. Dr. Samantha Ege "South Side Impresarios" Sama…

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Opus 250 - "We Have a Dream" (feat. Carlos Simon) 1:00:06

4M ago1:00:06

1:00:06

Composer Carlos Simon returns to TRILLOQUY to offer updates on life, music, and the pursuit or peace in a world filled with change and uncertainty. Loki shares writings of Martin Luther King Jr. to commemorate MLK Day and the inauguration of Donald Trump as 47th President of the United States. Carlos Simon "Ring Shout" by Carlos Simon "brea(d)th" b…

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Opus 249 - "American Sketches" (feat. Kristin Lee) 52:40

4M ago52:40

52:40

Violinist Kristin Lee joins Loki to discuss her new album, "American Sketches", and to unpack the question of who (and what) is American. Loki offers Buddhist texts as encouragement to those impacted by the California fires. Kristin Lee "American Sketches" Emerald City Music "Monk's Mood" (perf. Kristin Lee and Jeremy Ajani Jordan) "Southland Sketc…

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KDTime 118: Slowest of Burns in TV 1:11:14

5M ago1:11:14

1:11:14

It's 2025 and I'm kicking off the year slowly... pun intended. In this episode of KD Time it's time to reflect on the concept of slow burns in television shows. The beauty and complexity of slow-burn storytelling explores the romances in various TV shows. Who do you have as your favorite Slow Burn Couple?? If you love what you hear please subscribe…

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Opus 248 - "Loving v. Virginia" (feat. Damien Geter) 1:02:28

5M ago1:02:28

1:02:28

Loki chats with composer Damian Geter about his upbringing, career success, and his new opera that shines a light on the Loving v. Virginia court case, which made interracial marriage legal in the United States. Damian also offers words on "The Blacknificent 7" and their hopes for the industry. Loki shares his experiences and opinions on the topic …

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Opus 247 - "Ndemara" (feat. Adolphus Hailstork) 38:15

6M ago38:15

38:15

Loki chats with acclaimed composer Adolphus Hailstork about his experiences engaging Black composers over the course of this trajectory, the US premiere of his work, "Ndemara", and guidance to the next generation of composers. Loki reads from the manifesto of Luigi Mangione, offers his thoughts on direct, cultural, and systemic violence, and encour…

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A Conversation between Stevie Wonder, Barack Obama and Wesley Morris 43:53

6M ago43:53

43:53

In this bonus episode, Wesley sits down with Stevie Wonder and a superfan named Barack Obama to discuss the politics of optimism, the power of a love song, and what it feels like to break artistic ground. And the best part? Stevie brought his keyboard. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.co…

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Talk Easy featuring Wesley Morris 27:48

6M ago27:48

27:48

Today we're sharing one of our favorite podcasts, Talk Easy. This episode features Wesley Morris talking about The Wonder of Stevie. Wesley unpacks Stevie Wonder’s legendary five-album run from 1972-1976, his recent “battleground states” tour in the run up to the election, and how his relationship to Stevie’s music has evolved in the process of mak…

1
Opus 246 - "Koman ou ye?" (feat. Nathalie Joachim) 51:48

6M ago51:48

51:48

Loki chats with Grammy-nominated flutist, vocalist, and composer, Nathalie Joachim about Afromodernism, building community as an artist, and more. Loki responds to imagery that suggests that it's time for Black women to watch it all burn. NOLA Chamber Fest Lyrica Baroque Nathalie Joachim Nathalie Joachim - Kouti yo (Live from Juilliard) Aware by Na…

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KDTime 117: The Canvas of Life with Gwen & Alisha 46:40

7M ago46:40

46:40

Everyone please welcome special guests author/writer Gwendolyn Jasmine and Alisha Rose! In this episode of KD Time, the chat is on with a fascinating discussion on their book 'The Canvas of Life,' a collection of poetry and art. Through this conversation I learned so much about art; how it associates and resonates with the poet. The stories behind …

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Opus 245 - "Dream Ourselves Out Of This Nightmare" (feat. Jennifer Koh) 1:07:36

7M ago1:07:36

1:07:36

Loki chats with Jennifer Koh about the notion of "risk" in western classical spaces, the importance of commissioning new work, and her upcoming collaboration with the Kennedy Center. Loki reads from the autobiography of Huey P. Newton and responds to the outcome of the 2024 presidential election. Jennifer Koh ARCO Collaborative Fortas Chamber Music…

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KDTime 116: The What-Ifs of TV Couples 1:03:54

7M ago1:03:54

1:03:54

In this episode of KDTime, join me as I explore the intriguing world of TV show couples that either became a couple late in the series or never became a couple, despite having chemistry or potential. From iconic shows like 'Sherlock' and 'Friends' to animated favorites like 'Avatar: The Last Airbender'. Listen in as I compare various pairings that …

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KDTime 115: "Spooky" Stories 36:33

7M ago36:33

36:33

In this KDTime episode... In the glow of candlelight, my guest Jay Dee and I read through some darkish goosebump driven mysteries. Each of these stories added a perfect blend of suspense, mystery, and a touch of the supernatural, making them just eerie enough for some spooky fun! So, grab a blanket, turn down the lights, and settle in, as we journe…

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Opus 244 - "Composing While Black" (feat. George Lewis) 48:31

7M ago48:31

48:31

Loki chats with composer George Lewis about the "Composing While Black" anthology, his approach to furthering the tradition of "great Black music", and his upcoming collaborations with the New York Philharmonic, ICE, and others. Loki also responds to the Afromodernism concert he recently attended, presented by the New York Philharmonic. Support for…

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Opus 243 - Craigmont Class of 2005 (feat. Ryan Nichols) 49:21

7M ago49:21

49:21

Loki reunited with one of his high school classmates to talk about their upcoming 20 year reunion, memories from band (and Music Theory class), and how decolonizing classical music can benefit students beyond those who are interested in music as a career. Loki also shares The Parable of the Mustard Seed in response to recent challenge and tragedy. …

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KDTime 114: It's Terror Time Again 1:02:27

8M ago1:02:27

1:02:27

In this episode of KDTime, I pay homage to one of my favorite cartoon movies "Scooby Doo on Zombie Island" with the title of this episode. What would you do if there was a Zombie Apocalypse???Listen to find out my thoughts on zombies in pop culture and what I'd do to survive...If you like what you hear that's amazing!! check out me on other platfor…

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KDTime 113: This is Halloween 48:03

8M ago48:03

48:03

In this episode of KD Time, let's dive into the celebration of Halloween in pop culture, exploring its significance in TV shows and music. Listen in as I highlight how Halloween has become a staple in entertainment in the month of October, evoking nostalgia and festive fun. Let's also touch on the themes of fear, the supernatural, and the whimsical…

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6 - Confetti Cannon | 1979 - infinity 1:07:12

8M ago1:07:12

1:07:12

Isn’t the streak over now? Depends on who you ask. After Songs in the Key of Life, Stevie Wonder returns with…a left turn. A departure album. Something totally different than his usual sound. Does that end the streak or complicate it? And when the streak is all said and done, does Stevie Wonder get the credit he truly deserves for his genius? Featu…

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5 - Songs In The Key Of Life | 1976 57:02

8M ago57:02

57:02

This is everyone’s favorite, right? Sure is and for good reason. Now a master at his own craft and sound, Stevie Wonder drops a double album. More songs. More players. More genius. It’s no wonder it’s everyone’s favorite. On the fifth album of the streak, Songs in the Key of Life, Stevie delivers his ultimate message of love. See Privacy Policy at …

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4 - Fulfillingness’ First Finale | 1974 45:07

8M ago45:07

45:07

What’s next? Wesley’s favorite album in the streak. But it’s not everyone’s favorite. Stevie Wonder’s trying to figure something out on this record. It shows a different, moodier, more reflective side. Following an unexpected and life-changing event, Stevie releases the fourth album in the streak, Fulfillingness’ First Finale. Featuring Yolanda Ada…

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KDTime 112: Who Is the "King of New York"? 59:05

8M ago59:05

59:05

In this episode of KDTime, I explore the concept of the 'King of New York' in sports, discussing various athletes who have made significant impacts in their respective fields. What are the requirements in the criteria that define greatness in New York sports? From the legendary players who have graced the teams to the current struggles of various f…

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3 - Innervisions | 1973 56:16

8M ago56:16

56:16

What more is there to say? For Stevie Wonder, a lot. He’s got more love songs, sure. But as Stevie takes a hard look at the world around him, he’s itching to address different concerns — drugs, politics, and religion in America. Stevie’s next album isn’t just about him. Innervisions, the third album in the streak, is about the Black American experi…

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2 - Talking Book | 1972 56:24

8M ago56:24

56:24

How do you follow lightning in a bottle? Well, if you’re Stevie Wonder, you go on tour with The Rolling Stones. Now catering to a wider (and whiter) audience, Stevie expresses himself as a Black artist in the best way he knows how: through music. And just months after Music of My Mind, he releases the second album in the streak, Talking Book. Featu…

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1 - Music of My Mind | 1972 58:18

8M ago58:18

58:18

How does Little Stevie Wonder grow into just… Stevie Wonder? Years after signing his first recording deal as a kid with Motown Records, Stevie decides to renegotiate his contract. One of the things on the table? Complete creative freedom. What follows is the beginning of one of the greatest streak of albums in American popular music ever: Music of …

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Opus 242 - "Intermezzo" (feat. Seunghee Lee AKA Sunny Kang) 1:01:02

8M ago1:01:02

1:01:02

Loki Karuna chats with Grammy-nominated clarinetist, Seunghee Lee (aka Sunny Kang) about the path toward a Grammy, her life as a golfer, and her new album, "Intermezzo". Loki offers condolences to the family of Marcellus "Khalifah" Williams and offers his thoughts on the death penalty. Seunghee Lee "Intermezzo" Album "Executive", by Michele Magnani…

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Opus 241 - "Sounds Current" (feat. Charlton Lee) 1:01:39

9M ago1:01:39

1:01:39

Loki Karuna chats with Charlton Lee of the Del Sol Quartet about the flexibility of smaller ensembles to shift the status quo, his new podcast, "Sounds Current", and more! Loki also highlights and reflects on his recent trip to a Buddhist conference in Florida. Charlton Lee "Sounds Current" "Rough Math" by Mason Bates "Scrapyard Exotica" by Mason B…

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The Grande Finale (Souvenir de Florence Part 4) 18:28

9M ago18:28

18:28

"I began it three days ago and am writing with difficulty, not for wont of new ideas, but because of the novelty of the form. One requires six independent yet homogeneous voices. This is unimaginably difficult." - Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, 1890

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Introducing The Wonder of Stevie 4:04

9M ago4:04

4:04

Follow The Wonder of Stevie on Audible or wherever you get your podcasts. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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KDTime 111: Were These Villains Right? 59:32

9M ago59:32

59:32

In this episode of I explore the idea of animated villains who might have been right in their motives or perspectives. While some of these villains had understandable motives, their actions were often extreme or harmful. I decided to raise the question about the moral complexities of these animated worlds and the portrayal of heroes and villains. B…

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KDTime 110: Gone Too Soon Part 2 54:23

9M ago54:23

54:23

In this episode, I discuss TV shows that ended too soon similar to my previous episode 95 Gone TOO soon. I share my thoughts on various shows that were canceled after one season, continuing my disappointment and frustration. I also provide a list of canceled shows from 2023 across different networks and streaming platforms. Watch your shows! If you…

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