Jazz FM and One Jazz, leading broadcasters in the world of jazz radio, return with a second series of I AM WARRIOR, a co-production with Tomorrow’s Warriors. The series introduces listeners to three of today’s most exciting emerging artists from the Tomorrow’s Warriors programme, reaffirming the broadcasters’ shared commitment to championing the next generation of UK jazz talent and providing them with a national broadcast platform
Over six episodes, I AM WARRIOR introduces three artists; pianist and composer Emily Tran, singer-songwriter Kianja and trombonist-composer Christ-Stéphane Boizi.
Each episode sees one of the three rising stars weave personal storytelling with music from classic artists who’ve inspired and shaped their sound – alongside their own tracks and selections from Tomorrow’s Warriors alumni and fellow contemporaries across the current UK jazz scene.
I AM WARRIOR is broadcast across six weeks on both Jazz FM and One Jazz, with the first episode airing on Jazz FM on Saturday 31 January at 9pm and on One Jazz on Sunday 1 February.
Nick Pitts, Content Director of Jazz FM and Magic Classical said: “Working with our friends at Tomorrow’s Warriors and One Jazz for a second time on this really important project provides a real opportunity to expose our audience to these new amazing talents, and in turn give them a chance to share their influences through their own voice. Their eclectic musical choices never fail to surprise and amaze!”
Jez Nelson, co-founder of One Jazz and trustee of Tomorrow’s Warriors says, “One Jazz is all about showcasing jazz and jazz artists from the world over. Tomorrow’s Warriors represents the very best of young, emerging jazz talent and we’re buzzing to have I AM WARRIOR returning for a second year on the network, it’s brilliant to be working with Jazz FM again on this important project. Emily Tran, Kianja and Christ-Stéphane Boizi are exciting additions to our growing roster of global jazz hosts”
Janine Irons OBE, Co-founder and CEO of Tomorrow’s Warriors, said, “I AM WARRIOR is a powerful reflection of what Tomorrow’s Warriors has always stood for – giving young artists the space, support and confidence to tell their own stories in their own voices. Emily, Kianja and Christ-Stéphane represent the depth, diversity and creative brilliance of the current UK jazz scene, and it will be inspiring to hear them share their journeys and influences.
Working once again with our friends at Jazz FM and One Jazz allows these artists to be heard on a national platform, and that visibility is vital for the future of this music.”
On being part of the series, Emily Tran said “I’m excited to dig through records of great pianists and try to cherry-pick a few that have been important in my development as a composer and pianist. I’m also excited to share these songs with listeners and talk about what made me love them.”
Trombonist Christ-Stéphane Boizi added: “Having the opportunity to dig into new music that I haven’t checked out before — it’s going to be a super humbling experience. Can’t wait to check out some killing music with you guys. See you soon.”
Commenting on becoming a radio host, Kianja said: “I joined this series to stretch myself creatively and learn a new skill. I’m excited to revisit the music that raised me, to dig back into my personal archives, and to experience radio in a deeper and more intentional way.”
Where to listen to I AM WARRIOR:
Jazz FM – Saturdays at 9pm: 31 January, 7 February, 14 February, 21 February, 28 February and 7 March
One Jazz – Sundays at 3pm: 1st – 22nd February, 8th February ,15th February, 22nd February, 1st March and 8th March
The series is produced by Claire Umney with assistant producer Joe D’Souza.