Neon Jazz Interviews

Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series. On this episode, we talk with Latin musician, percussionist, bandleader, songwriter, and producer Tito Puente Jr.. As the son of the legendary Tito Puente—known as “El Rey de los Timbales” and “The King of Latin Music”—he continues a powerful musical legacy.

Tito Puente Jr. brings a high-energy fusion of jazz, Latin, salsa, merengue, and mambo to audiences around the world, keeping the spirit of his father alive while forging his own path.

We dive into his work with the YMU Jazz Collective in Miami, along with his journey through music, performance, and staying true to a legendary lineage.

This is a vibrant conversation about rhythm, legacy, and the future of Latin jazz.

👉 More Tito: https://www.instagram.com/titopuentejr/👉 More YMU Jazz Collective: https://ymu.org/

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Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series. On this episode, we talk with Andover, Massachusetts-based jazz composer, songwriter, and pianist Ron Rieder. We dive into his 2026 album Compositions in Blues and Other Hues, a collection of eleven straight-ahead jazz tunes brought to life by an inspired group of musicians.

Known for his work as a pianist, Ron has expanded into composition, building on earlier projects like Latin Jazz Sessions. This new release reflects a deep love of jazz, collaboration, and musical storytelling.

We also explore his unique journey balancing a life in science with a career in music, and how those worlds intersect in his creative process.

👉 Get the music: https://ronrieder.bandcamp.com/

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Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series. On this episode, we talk with San Diego-based jazz keyboardist and composer Hindy Bare. We dive into her debut 2026 album Jillo, a powerful and personal project inspired by Jill Ker Conway, the first female president of Smith College.

Hindy shares her journey through jazz and blues, including her work with guitarist Fuzzy Watkins and her evolution as a solo artist. After raising a family, she returned to school during the pandemic to earn a master’s degree in jazz—proving it’s never too late to pursue your passion.

Her story began at the Berklee College of Music, where she studied jazz piano with Donald Brown, laying the foundation for a lifetime in music.

This is a conversation about resilience, creativity, and the enduring spirit of jazz.

👉 Get the album & more: https://www.hindybare.com/

For More Neon Jazz:
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Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series. On this episode, we talk with award-winning jazz conductor, composer, producer, and radio host Mitch Glickman. His diverse career spans film, concerts, opera, and recordings. He is the founder and music director of the Symphonic Jazz Orchestra and serves as Director of Music Programs for the Los Angeles County Museum of Art.

We dive into the highly anticipated “Tribute to Maurice White,” honoring the legendary founder of Earth, Wind & Fire. These special concerts will premiere new symphonic jazz arrangements by Marshall Gilkes, John Clayton, Derrick Hodge, and Vince Mendoza, along with the world premiere of a previously unheard composition by Maurice White.

The performances take place May 9–10, 2026, at the Carpenter Performing Arts Center in Long Beach, bringing audiences a powerful orchestral experience that bridges eras and genres while celebrating White’s enduring legacy.

We also explore Mitch’s career, the Symphonic Jazz Orchestra, and his impact on jazz, education, and broadcasting.

🎟️ Get tickets: SJOmusic.org📻 Listen to his radio show: https://kkjz.org/programming/hosts/bios/?host=79

For More Neon Jazz:
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Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series with jazz singer, songwriter, actress, and charismatic entertainer Rachel Sutton.

We dive into her brand-new 2026 album Realms, a project that captures the magic of her live performances while adding rich studio nuance and musical depth. Rachel shares insights into her journey through jazz, her work on international stages, and how her theatrical training shapes every performance.

Known for her emotive voice, humor, and heartfelt storytelling, Rachel has captivated audiences at major venues and festivals across the UK and beyond. In addition to her music career, she has performed in award-winning productions at the Edinburgh and New York Fringe Festivals, blending acting and jazz into a truly unique artistic voice.

This is a conversation about creativity, performance, and passion you don’t want to miss.

👉 Get the album & more: https://rachelsuttonmusic.com/

For More Neon Jazz:
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