If you’re around 64 or older you probably remember the shock of the 1968 Olympic leap of Bob Beamon when it happened.

He didn’t just win the gold, he also shattered the world record – and 56 years later it’s still the Olympic record.

What you probably didn’t know, and I didn’t know until very recently, is that Bob has had a passion for Afro-Caribbean music since he was 9 years old growing up in the projects in South Jamaican, Queens.

But he was more than just a fan. Until he went to college and shifted his attention to sports, he was on track to become a professional musician.

Now at 77, he’s playing again. In a band and is on his first CD.

Complete interview – December 29, 2023

– Ken McCarthy
Jazz on the Tube

P.S. Our unique programming is made possible by help from people like you. Learn how you can contribute to our efforts here: Support Jazz on the Tube
Thanks.

Music credit: The Jazz on the Tube podcast theme song is “Mambo Inferno” performed by The Manhattan School of Music Afro-Cuban Jazz Orchestra conducted by Bobby Sanabria from the CD ¡Que Viva Harlem!