American music comes from a lot of places, but when you’re talking about primary sources of power, you’ve got to credit the Black Church.

Historically, everyone from Louis Armstrong to Ornette Coleman credit the church with helping them find their depth in music.

This clip comes from Ulysses Owen Jr’s interview of drum master Joe Saylor from the thoroughly excellent Open Studios YouTube channel.

Click here for the full interview.

From family encouragement…to the Church…to jam sessions that welcome young people…to generous musical mentors.

That’s where the power comes from.

– Ken McCarthy
Jazz on the Tube

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