Written by a model from the transcript; not yet reviewed.
Norah Jones and Robert Glasper reunite in the studio after meeting as teenagers at a Texas jazz summer camp in the 1990s. They share memories of their shared roots in jazz education, parallel high school experiences, and how mentors like Q-Topic and Roy Hargrove shaped their musical journeys. Throughout the episode, they perform stripped-down versions of songs like Radiohead's "Reckoner," "Life Is Better," "Sunrise," and "Let It Ride," while swapping stories about the music industry, church gigs, and recording sessions.
The episode opens with the host introducing herself and the special guest, Robert Glasper, setting the stage for a musical conversation.
The host highlights Glasper’s latest albums, collaborations, and his upcoming residency at New York’s Blue Note.
The hosts reminisce about their recent trip to Los Angeles, sharing memories of dinner and the excitement of recording together.
The hosts discuss how they first met Glasper during a jazz camp in Denton, Texas, and how that early encounter shaped their friendship.
The conversation covers Glasper’s work with Q‑Tip, Bilal, and other artists, including anecdotes from Grammy moments and touring experiences.
Glasper reflects on how the neo‑soul scene, especially figures like Bilal and the Roots, influenced his musical direction and collaborations.
The hosts discuss Glasper’s future projects, his desire to work with more artists, and the ongoing evolution of his sound.
Glasper shares how playing in church during his youth helped develop his musical skills and shaped his approach to performance.
Glasper explains the creative process behind his live‑style recordings, such as the Capitol Building sessions and the challenges of capturing a live feel in the studio.
The hosts reflect on Glasper’s energetic, soulful playing and the emotional impact of his music.
Discussion of how Glasper’s early recordings inspired the host’s own songwriting and the creation of new tracks.
Hosts list the people and institutions that shaped their careers, from high school programs to influential musicians.
They talk about choosing between sports and music, the importance of recognizing one’s gifts, and how family support matters.
Meeting at Jazz Campstory
Norah Jones and Robert Glasper recall first meeting as 15-year-olds at a summer jazz camp in Denton, Texas.
Roy Hargrove's Influenceinsight
Robert Glasper explains how seeing Roy Hargrove's young jazz band dressed in jeans and sneakers inspired him to realize jazz could be accessible.
Glasper recounts how his mother walked right up to the stage during his first world tour performance with Roy Hargrove to demand a solo for her son.
Glasper shares how he started playing the chords that became "Life Is Better" during a session for Q-Tip, who immediately suggested having Norah Jones sing on it.
Switching from Basketball to Pianostory
Glasper describes how sitting on the bench for his high school basketball team pushed him to focus on the piano instead.
Mastering Your Instrumentinsight
Glasper argues that jazz and classical music are the only genres where you must completely master your instrument just to play mediocredly.
The Origin of "I Can't Make You Love Me"story
Glasper shares the bizarre origin story of the classic song, written after a football player watched a criminal on a TV show say the iconic line.
“This episode felt like a high school reunion in a bottle, you know?”
“He's so like, he's like, yeah, I know this song, I'm playing it.”
“Where you came from, just, it could be one song from one person that meant so much that is a part of your life and part of your whole thing.”
“Knowing what you're really good at, and what you suck at early, and being a realist.”
“Other than classical. Classical and jazz are the only genres where you pretty much have to master your instrument just to play it in a mediocre way.”
“And that'll be my first time playing with Blade.”
“Sometimes his shows are like that, where he's featuring all these people and the groove.”
A fellow piano player, songwriter and Texan, this episode with Robert Glasper was meant to be!
16,754 words · 7 speakers
Page updated · transcript and summary are machine-generated