In this first installment of the Rising Stars series, Steve Wiest sits down with trumpeter, composer, and entrepreneur Eric Jacobson for an honest and inspiring conversation about building a life in jazz.

Eric shares how he has created a sustainable career performing hard bop, releasing original music, teaching, and promoting his work—all while staying true to the music and continuing to grow as an artist.

The conversation explores the real question many musicians ask: Is it possible to make a living playing jazz today?

Eric’s answer is clear—and backed by experience.

Along the way, they discuss mentorship, persistence, creative identity, and the importance of believing you have something unique to offer.

This is a conversation about music—but also about purpose, resilience, and the long road of developing a life in the arts.

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Links from this episode:

Eric's Website https://ericjacobsontrumpet.com/home

Origin Records: https://originarts.com/

Eric's Music: https://ericjacobsontrumpet.com/music

Eric's Jazz Method Books: https://ericjacobsontrumpet.com/jazz-...

In this episode of You Dig?, Steve Wiest sits down with legendary drummer Jeff Hamilton for a relaxed, front-porch conversation about music, swing, and a life spent at the highest level of jazz.

From performing with Ray Brown, Oscar Peterson, and Ella Fitzgerald, to insights on groove, big band drumming, and artistic discipline, Jeff shares stories, humor, and deep wisdom from decades on the bandstand.

This is a conversation about music — but also about purpose, dedication, and joy.

A good time is had by all. You dig?

Video Version: https://www.youtube.com/@YouDigPod

Links from today's episode:

Jeff's Artist Site: https://hamiltonjazz.com/

Jeff's Latest Projects:

Jeff Hamilton Trio "A New Chapter" https://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/AS...

The Latest Clayton/Hamilton Jazz Orchestra Project:

"And So It Goes" https://hamiltonjazz.com/discography/...

Steve Wiest Artist Site: http://steve-wiest.com

The You Dig? Season 3 Theme Song:

"Shred or Shred Not (There is No Try)" composed by Steve Wiest

From the project Phröntrange: The High Road

WIESTWORLD Productions Cue: Rosana and Gary Eckert

🎙️ YOU DIG? with Steve Wiest

Episode: Denis DiBlasio — Maynard Stories, Jazz Wisdom & Life Lessons

In this episode of You Dig?, Steve Wiest sits down with legendary saxophonist, composer, and educator Denis DiBlasio for a wide-ranging and deeply personal conversation about music, mentorship, and life on the road.

From unforgettable stories with Maynard Ferguson to encounters with jazz icons like Sonny Rollins, Count Basie, and Art Blakey, Denis shares insights that go far beyond music — touching on creativity, leadership, humor, and what it means to build a meaningful life in the arts.

This episode blends laughter, history, and hard-earned wisdom into a conversation that speaks to musicians, creatives, and anyone pursuing a life of purpose.

🎧 In this episode: • Life and lessons from the Maynard Ferguson band • The role of humor and joy in great leadership • Stories from the road with jazz legends • Musical identity and improvisation • The changing landscape of the jazz world • A powerful perspective on the meaning of life

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Links:

Denis DiBlasio Artist Site: https://denisdiblasio.com/

Steve Wiest Artist Site: https://steve-wiest.com/

📬 Join the You Dig? Dispatches newsletter 👍 Follow, rate, and share the show 💬 Send in guest suggestions and listener questions

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🎺 Next Episode: Jeff Hamilton