When, during the Communist Era there was the need for jazz music to be listened to as a symbol of freedom in the countries from the former Soviet bloc; when at times of discrimination of African Americans in the US there was a need for prejudice to be overcome – and jazz was a way to do that, a true well-doer was here – the legendary broadcaster and festival producer Willis Conover. The Voice of America was the radio station on which, although jammed in Eastern Europe, his voice was heard, and festivals around the world were the events at which, supporting African American music, Willis Conover showcased how absurd prejudices were. Svetoslav Nikolov talks about this great personality to Conover’s colleague from The Voice of America and close friend Maria Atanassova.
You can listen to the interview, broadcast on Jazz FM, here.
