INTERVIEW: Jeff Bradshaw Talks ‘HOME’ Album, Bond With Robert Glasper & More

Before ending the month of March, trombone maestro Jeff Bradshaw released his live Home: One Special Night at the Kimmel Center album.

Ahead of the album’s release, Bradshaw dropped “All Time Love” featuring Robert Glasper, Eric Roberson and Tweet as the lead single.

As reviews continue to pour in about his Home: One Special Night at the Kimmel Center album, the Philadelphia-native speaks to Rated R&B about the live record. Bradshaw also discusses his love for the trombone, Robert Glasper and the most important quality a musician should possess, among other topics.

Read our Q&A with Jeff Bradshaw below.

What do you love about a trombone?

The trombone is the closest thing to the human voice and it is an extension of my voice. Fred Wesley played and my father played the
trombone and that for me made it cool.

The first instrument you played was a snare drum. What made you decide to ditch that for a trombone?’

My father playing the trombone was the main reason I gravitated towards the instrument. He was the coolest person I knew and anything he did had to be cool. He also introduced me to James Brown’s music and that was the first time I heard Fred Wesley.

Why did you title your album HOME? What’s the meaning behind it?

The biggest recording of my career thus far needed to be home in front of the people that have supported me all these years. It was only right to call it HOME because that is where I was.

What inspired you to record a live album?

People have always talked about how much they love my studio albums and music but when they see me live in concert they would say ‘now I really get you!’
People cannot feel your energy or your swag or how your music effects people in the studio. I wanted people to feel the energy and the spirit behind what I do.

What was the most challenging part about recording this project?

Everything (laughs )! Coordinating creative elements and corralling 21 musicians including string players and working out the logistics of getting 12 artists and their traveling parties together in one place for one day was the most challenging part. The music part was easy because everybody was the best at what they do.

You’re pretty close with Robert Glasper, who executive produced this project, what led you to select him to produce the project?

His Black Radio series 1 and 2 were not far from the records that I’ve done in the past like Bone Deep and Bon Appétit. He understands what I do and the strengths and gifts behind it. He was the perfect person to help me Executive Produce this masterpiece.

What’s your chemistry like working with him?

It is like working with your brother or a family member. It is easy when you understand musical concepts the same way.

We heard you will be performing at Essence Festival this year. What can fans expect from you?

You can expect an amazing one of a kind explosion of soul, jazz, hip-hop, R&B and super collaborations.

For all the emerging musicians out there, what would you say is the most important quality to have as a musician?

Musical integrity and polish up your social skills!

Is there anything else you would like to add?

With God, all things are possible. A self-taught musician from the hood is making an impact in music because of hard work, determination and great friends. Welcome HOME!

Listen to Home: One Special Night at the Kimmel Center below.