Producer Tommy LiPuma (left) and National Public Radio’s Ashley Kahn
On Thursday, June 25, the Recording Academy New York Chapter hosted a discussion between three-time Grammy Award–winning pop and jazz producer Tommy LiPuma (pictured, left) and National Public Radio’s Ashley Kahn (pictured, right), who contributes stories to NPR’s Morning Edition. LiPuma is also Verve Music Group Chairman Emeritus, and his numerous credits include Anita Baker, Gladys Knight, Diana Krall and The Story. Kahn is the author of Kind of Blue: The Making of the Miles Davis Masterpiece; The House That Trane Built: The Story of Impulse Records; and A Love Supreme: The Story of John Coltrane’s Signature Album.
LiPuma discussed his first stint with Warner Bros. in 1974 as a staff A&R producer, helping launch the label careers of George Benson, Al Jarreau, and Michael Franks, and recording albums with Antonio Carlos Jobim, Joao Gilberto and Claus Ogerman. Transitioning into the position of Chairman Emeritus in 2004, LiPuma decided to spend more time in the studio, handing over the reigns of the label group’s day-to-day operations. With 29 Gold and Platinum records to his credit, more than 30 Grammy nominations and three Grammy Awards, LiPuma is one of the most successful pop and jazz producers ever.
“Tommy LiPuma is one of the iconic producers of our time,” says Elizabeth Healy, Executive Director of the Recording Academy New York Chapter. “We are thrilled that he took the time to share historic moments of his career with us, and offer his insight into production and how to make a great record. The talent and wisdom that Tommy has to offer is so important to share with the artistic community. We are pleased that The Recording Academy New York Chapter could provide this opportunity to our members.”
Visit the Recording Academy New York Chapter at Grammy.com.
