In this episode of Takin’ a Walk, host Buzz Knight strolls through the creative journey of Grammy-nominated vocalist Ryan Shaw and acclaimed pianist/composer Ray Angry (The Roots) as they discuss their electrifying new project, Off Broadway. Listeners get an inside look at how a chance collaboration at New York’s 54 Below sparked the idea for an album that reimagines classic Broadway hits through the lens of R&B, soul, jazz, rock, reggae, house, and even classical music, covering material from over 70 years.

Ryan and Ray share the story behind the album’s genesis: how producer Scott Jacoby, inspired after witnessing their live chemistry, proposed capturing their synergy in the studio, resulting in a whirlwind two-week recording session that brought together top-tier musicians and bold new arrangements. The duo reflects on the creative freedom and mutual respect that fueled the project, revealing how they pushed each other out of their comfort zones to deliver surprising, genre-blurring renditions of Broadway standards like “Gethsemane” and “Send in the Clowns”.

With anecdotes about their favorite tracks, the magic of live improvisation, and the thrill of bringing fresh energy to beloved songs, this episode is a must-listen for music lovers and Broadway fans alike. Tune in for a behind-the-scenes walk, recorded at Scott Jacoby's Eusonia Studio in New York City(and joined by Scott) with two prodigious talents who are redefining what it means to go “Off Broadway”.

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Buzz Knight

Founder Buzz Knight Media Productions