CHILLI JAZZ RADIO WEEKLY SHOW NEWS

“Sentimental Over You” - The Tommy Dorsey Orchestra Returns After 40 Years

For this week's Chilli Jazz Record of the Week, we celebrate a landmark release from one of the most iconic names of the Swing Era. Sentimental Over You marks the first new studio album from The Tommy Dorsey Orchestra in over four decades, bringing the legendary Dorsey sound back to life for a new generation of listeners.

Featuring fresh recordings of treasured classics including I'm Getting Sentimental Over You, Opus One, Marie, and I'll Never Smile Again, this remarkable album captures all the elegance, power, and sophistication that made Tommy Dorsey a giant of big band music.

A triumphant return and a must-hear release for swing and jazz lovers everywhere.

WITH TOM STEVENS

MONDAY'S 11.00PM

The Lighter Side of Big Bands & Jazz – Celebrating Feel‑Good Jazz Across the Decades

12th October 8-10pm this months show from Paul Rigby celebrating Halloween and fireworks

On Air: First Monday, 8–10pm Repeat: Saturday 5 –7pm Omnibus: Sunday 8 -10am

Modern Power, Classic Legends Presented by Paul Rigby

Join broadcaster and bandleader Paul Rigby for Big Bands and Beyond — a monthly showcase of modern big bands and legendary ensembles. Paul is leader of the Northern Jazz Orchestra and brings expert insight, great music, and special guests.

THIS TUESDAY 13th October STARTING THE - 8PM

YOU DIG? — Jazz Stories, Big Personalities, Real Insight

Smart, relaxed conversations with the musicians and creators shaping today’s jazz world — hosted by Grammy‑nominated Steve Wiest.

This week Steve welcomes Vincent Gardner - From Rising Star to Jazz Powerhouse

This week on Dig It,Steve shines the spotlight on acclaimed trombonist, composer, educator, and bandleader Vincent Gardner. A former DownBeat Magazine Rising Star winner and long-time lead trombonist with the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra under Wynton Marsalis, Gardner has built a remarkable career spanning acclaimed solo recordings, collaborations with his brother Derrick Gardner, and his role as Artistic Director of Jazz Houston.

In this fascinating conversation, Vincent takes us through his musical journey, influences, career highlights, and the passion that continues to drive his artistry. From the concert stage to education and leadership in jazz, Vincent remains one of the most respected voices in the genre today. Dive in and enjoy an inspiring look inside the life and music of a true jazz heavyweight.

STAR-SPANGLED RADIO HOUR

With Dennis M. Spragg – Historian, Author & Curator

Dennis M. Spragg is the lead historian of the Glenn Miller legacy, coordinating the Glenn Miller Collections at the University of Colorado Boulder and serving with the Glenn Miller Birthplace Society. He co‑produces the acclaimed Star‑Spangled Radio Hour, manages the Glenn Miller Collections’ online presence, and writes widely published articles on American history and exceptionalism. His work is featured by major media, the Smithsonian, and the Library of Congress, and he appears frequently across radio, TV, podcasts, and live events.

Wednesday 14th October 5pm

Friday 5pm, Sunday 12pm

THIS WEEK

The Metronome All-Stars Jazz Giants Unite (Part 3)

Join Dennis to celebrate the legendary Metronome All-Stars, a remarkable gathering of jazz greats brought together through the readers' polls of Metronome Magazine. Between 1939 and 1956, the magazine assembled the finest musicians of the era for a series of historic recording sessions, creating dream line-ups that featured many of the biggest names in jazz.

The Metronome All-Stars captured the spirit of swing and modern jazz, bringing together virtuoso soloists and bandleaders in performances that showcased the extraordinary talent of the day. These unique recordings remain a fascinating snapshot of jazz history, where the industry's most celebrated artists came together for unforgettable collaborations. Join us as we dig into the music, the musicians, and the enduring legacy of one of jazz's most iconic all-star ensembles.

WITH TOM STEVENS

Wednesday 14th October 8.00pm

This Wednesday, Trombone Virtuoso Ben Patterson Joins Tom

From Airmen of Note to the World Stage: Ben Patterson on The Jazz Set

This Wednesday on The Jazz Set, Tom welcomes acclaimed trombonist, composer, and arranger Ben Patterson. From his early musical roots in Oklahoma to over 22 years with the legendary Airmen of Note, Ben has become one of the most respected figures in big band jazz. Tune in as he shares stories from a remarkable career that has taken him around the world, onto 16 albums, and even in front of U.S. Presidents. A must-listen for jazz fans everywhere.

NOT TO BE MISSED DRIVING HOME WITH TOM

Thursday's 5pm

The Michele Monro Podcast

The first Thursday of every month 7pm -8pm

Michele Monro talks about her father the legendary singer Matt Monro.

The Voice Behind the Stories, The Legacy Behind the Music

Michele Monro brings a uniquely personal perspective to the world of classic song and showbusiness. As the daughter of legendary singer Matt Monro, she has spent years preserving, curating and celebrating his legacy — and now she shares those stories, insights and rare moments on her new Chilli Jazz Radio show.

Expect warm, witty and deeply informed storytelling as Michele opens the door to a lifetime surrounded by music: the hits, the hidden gems, the studio tales, the family memories and the remarkable journey of one of Britain’s greatest vocalists. Her show blends nostalgia with discovery, offering listeners an intimate look at the man behind the microphone and the music that continues to inspire generations.

A heartfelt, engaging and beautifully crafted programme — Michele Monro brings history to life with charm, honesty and a deep love for the art of song.

TODD'S TURNTABLE

Do not miss the brilliant Tod Gordon and his themed shows

THURSDAY's 8PM

FRIDAY 2AM & 7PM, SUNDAY 4PM,

Tonight on Todd's Turntable The Leo Robin Songbook – A Celebration of Wit, Romance, and Hollywood Glamour

Join Todd this evening for The Leo Robin Songbook, a tribute to one of the most charming lyricists of the Golden Age of American music. Leo Robin’s words brought sparkle and sophistication to over 500 songs for Broadway and Hollywood, including the unforgettable classics Thanks for the Memory and Diamonds Are a Girl’s Best Friend.

Working alongside legendary composers like Harold Arlen, Harry Warren, and Ralph Rainger, Robin crafted melodies that defined an era of elegance and wit. With ten Oscar nominations and a place in the Songwriters’ Hall of Fame, his legacy continues to enchant generations.

Tune in tonight and let the timeless romance and lyrical brilliance of Leo Robin fill the air.

Tom Meets Big Band Royalty: Jeff Bush talking about the Legacy of the Tommy Dorsey Orchestra on 10th October -2pm

This Saturday on Big Band Heat, Tom welcomes a very special guest, Jeff Bush, Music Director and leader of the world-famous Tommy Dorsey Orchestra. From his early days in Apollo, Pennsylvania, to leading one of the most celebrated big bands in history, Jeff's remarkable career has taken him around the globe performing with jazz legends, major orchestras and superstar entertainers.

A gifted trombonist, educator and bandleader, Jeff has appeared with the Count Basie Orchestra, Vanguard Jazz Orchestra and Harry Connick Jr.'s acclaimed big band, while also performing alongside artists ranging from Christina Aguilera and Frankie Valli to The Temptations and Manhattan Transfer. In 2024, his musical journey came full circle when he became Music Director of the legendary Tommy Dorsey Orchestra.

Join Tom for an exclusive conversation exploring Jeff's extraordinary career, the enduring magic of the Tommy Dorsey sound, and what it means to lead one of the greatest big bands of all time. Don't miss this fascinating edition of Big Band Heat this Saturday.

Tom's brilliant show's are always packed with new music and interviews

Saturday 3rd October

Sunday 7pm, Monday 7pm, Tuesday 12am, Wednesday 5am

John Welcomes Mike Pointon – A Tribute to a True British Jazz Original

Tonight, John pays tribute to Mike Pointon, the versatile trombonist, broadcaster and jazz historian who helped shape the UK jazz scene for decades. Pointon’s career began early, playing with Ken Colyer’s band as a teenager before moving through groups like the Blue Crow Jazzmen and the Perdido Street Six.

A gifted musician with a sharp wit and a deep love for traditional jazz, Mike recorded and performed with leading players across Britain, Europe and the US. His contributions to music, arts and comedy made him one of the scene’s most recognisable and respected voices.

A warm, insightful celebration of a man who lived and breathed jazz.

Saturday 10th October 8pm

Sunday 2pm Monday 4am, Tuesday 6pm

Join David Harding-Price tonight for his fabulous Blue's Show

Featuring Samantha Martin & Delta Sugar

Get ready for an unforgettable blues and soul experience on Sapphire Sounds as we spotlight the phenomenal Samantha Martin & Delta Sugar. Described as “A Powerhouse Band and Vocals That Shake The Foundations,” this award-winning group delivers a stunning blend of blues, soul, gospel, and funk, driven by Samantha Martin's breathtaking voice and irresistible stage presence. Featuring music from their acclaimed album The Reckless One, expect soaring vocals, infectious grooves, and the kind of raw emotion that leaves audiences spellbound. If you love blues with heart, soul, and serious energy, this is one show you won't want to miss.

Tune in to Sapphire Sounds for the very best in blues.

THE SUNDAY REWIND - ALL THE WEEKS SHOWS IN ONE DAY

MEET THE PRESENTERS