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Norah Jones is joined by Grammy-winning producer, bassist, and Blue Note Records president Don Was for a conversation and musical collaboration. The discussion spans decades of legendary recording sessions, from producing Kris Kristofferson's raw acoustic masterpiece "This Old Road" to shaping landmark albums for Bonnie Raitt, the Rolling Stones, and Bob Dylan. Don shares vivid anecdotes about the Detroit music scene, working alongside icons like Wayne Shorter and Marvin Gaye, and maintaining artistic integrity over commercial compromise. Together, they perform stripped-down versions of songs by Kris Kristofferson and Keith Richards, offering a warm, insider-level look at the realities of making timeless music.
The episode opens with the hosts introducing themselves and the podcast series, setting the stage for the interview with Don Was.
Nora Jones introduces Don Was, highlighting his prolific career and role as Blue Note president, and expresses admiration for his work.
Don recounts his first album with a friend, the emotional impact of working with him, and the beginnings of his relationship with Nora.
Nora and Don wrap up the episode, thank listeners, and promote related podcasts and upcoming content.
Don discusses how Detroit’s culture shaped his music, the influence of local legends, and his commitment to authenticity.
The hosts discuss Don’s recent projects, upcoming releases, and his ongoing influence in the music industry.
Don reflects on juggling his responsibilities at Blue Note with his passion for touring and playing music live.
Don discusses the balance between sharing stories and protecting artists’ privacy.
Don reveals his plan to create a graphic novel and reminisces about Wayne Shorter’s childhood comics.
Don shares anecdotes about singing with Willie Nelson and Bob Dylan and the challenges of live performance.
Don reflects on his long relationship with the Rolling Stones and the collaborative dynamics of the band.
Kris Kristofferson's Raw Recordingstory
Don Was explains how Kris Kristofferson recorded his critically acclaimed album "This Old Road" in just 45 minutes with a minimal setup featuring six microphones, capturing the ambient sound of the room.
Kris Kristofferson on Memoryinsight
Don Was shares a poignant exchange with Kris Kristofferson about losing his memory later in life, where Kristofferson noted that the memory loss forced him to be completely present.
Ron Carter's Gospel Projectdata
Don Was discusses working on a surprising upcoming Blue Note record with 88-year-old bassist Ron Carter, pairing his jazz basslines with an a cappella gospel choir to recreate the sound of Carter's childhood church.
Don Was recounts how recording "Love Shack" with the B-52s and "Nick of Time" with Bonnie Raitt in the same summer completely transformed his career trajectory from struggling producer to Grammy winner.
The Grateful Dead Live Energyinsight
Don Was describes the unique, highly attentive energy of the Grateful Dead audience while touring with Bob Weir and the Wolf Brothers, noting how the collective feedback directly changes how the band plays.
Wayne Shorter's Creative Ritualstory
Don Was and Norah Jones discuss Wayne Shorter's literal creative method of turning on Fox News and placing a semicircle of Captain America figures around himself to argue with the news while writing music.
Keith Richards' Songwriting Methodstrategy
Don Was explains the process behind writing the Rolling Stones song "The Worst" with Keith Richards, who would fortify himself and stream consciousness lyrics into a microphone in Don's living room.
“I want to grow up to be him.”
“I read an interview with Frank Sinatra that he gave like in the 60s.”
“I think that's the only prayer you got.”
“It's like you shrink writing a book about you or something like that.”
“I wanted to do a graphic novel.”
“He used to, he told my kids this and I thought that he, I thought he was speaking metaphorically.”
“I think you can do it without spilling the beans.”
“I was like, how am I gonna sing with him?”
“The musical conversation that goes on inside the Rolling Stones is jocular and relaxed and generous, man.”
“I didn't know until I actually got to play with them, which I did a lot, if Darryl Jones couldn't be there, I'd rehearse with them.”
GRAMMY-winning producer, musician, and Blue Note Records President Don Was joins Norah.
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