Our “artist in residence,” Ashley Kahn, is many things: an author, producer, and journalist, but also a tour manager for Cassandra Wilson, Paul Simon, and Britney Spears. Above all, however, he is one of the most prominent American music journalists.
He received two Grammys for his liner notes, most recently in 2026 for “Miles ’55: The Prestige Recordings.” His insightful monographs on the most influential jazz albums in terms of their historical impact—“Kind of Blue” and “A Love Supreme”—are standard works and are also available in German. As Jazz Times put it: “Kahn’s writing is as expressive as Coltrane’s saxophone and just as profound.”
Mr. Kahn, what was the first record you ever bought?
It wasn't a record, but an 8-track cassette: the Beatles' red and blue albums.
Which three young jazz musicians should we keep an eye on?
Right now, I have three favorite guitarists: Emmanuel Michael, Gilad Hekselman, and Isaiah Sharkey.
Miles Davis or John Coltrane?
Come on! Miles and Trane! Give me one reason why anyone would have to choose between them?
What Can Politics Learn from Jazz?
Jazz, in the modern tradition, listens attentively to all styles and musical approaches; it maintains a sincere and enduring respect for its own heritage while remaining curious and open beyond its own boundaries.
Can beauty save the world?
Learning to appreciate beauty is one thing. But learning to recognize true, authentic beauty in our world—and to appreciate it so deeply that we understand this level of beauty should be nurtured and shared—is, in my opinion, what defines us as human beings. I believe this realization is part of what the Vedic tradition calls “samsara,” the cycle of life (and lives) that strives for self-improvement and collective elevation. Beauty—along with truth, justice, and supreme love, as John Coltrane called it—are the guiding principles that propel us along this path, that help us find our way out of darkness and chaos—one need only look at today’s headlines—and that strengthen us with hope and a plan. That is our task: to recognize beauty and to create it as well. Above all, however: to recognize it, cherish it, and protect it.
Date: 22. October 2026
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