It's been a wonderful 6-year run, but it's time to call it a day. So, for this final episode of Same Difference, we go back to the beginnings of Jazz with "Tiger Rag". Join AJ and Johnny one last time, as they listen to and discuss versions of this Jazz standard by The Original Dixieland Jass Band, Bix Beiderbecke, Louis Armstrong, Oscar Aleman, The Whiteway Jazz Band, and new-to-us artist Annie and The Fur Trappers. Thank you, everyone, for 6+ swingin' years!

How does someone take a solid Broadway musical number and turn it into a Jazz tune? Well, on this episode of Same Difference we hear some interesting results, when "I've Grown Accustomed To Her Face" goes under the microscope. Join AJ and Johnny as they listen to and discuss versions by Rex Harrison, Tony Bennett and Count Basie, Chris Botti and Dean Martin, Chet Baker, Stan Getz and Cal Tjader, and new-to-us artist Scott Chapman.

It's the second part of our 2-part look at trumpet players, and our friend and professional Jazz trumpeter, Mike Sailors, is back with us for the deep dive. In this part two, join us as the three of us listen to and discuss music by Miles Davis, Lee Morgan, and our guest Mike Sailors, who has a new album coming out in August.

Rather than discuss a single Jazz standard, this episode of Same Difference is all about the trumpet, and we've invited our friend and professional Jazz trumpeter, Mike Sailors, to join the fun. In fact, we had so much fun recording this, we've broken it into 2 full shows! In this part one, join us as the three of us listen to and discuss music by Louis Armstrong, Chet Baker, and Kenny Dorham.

Count Basie and Harry "Sweets" Edison are in the songwriting seat with "Jive At Five" on this episode of Same Difference! Join AJ and Johnny as they listen to and discuss versions by the Count Basie Orchestra, Oscar Peterson, Clark Terry and Mike Vax, Martin Taylor and Stephane Grappelli, Joe Newman, and new-to-us artist The Shirt Tail Stompers.

We all get to learn about the Jazz standard "Blue Bossa" together, as neither AJ nor Johnny had any versions of this song in their library, yet it was recommended on good authority to check it out, so we did! We'll listen to versions by Joe Henderson, Art Farmer and Phil Woods, Bobby McFerrin and Chick Corea, McCoy Tyner, George Benson, and new-to-us artist Mimi Fox.

Time to revisit "At Last", and joining us to do so is the incredibly talented Jazz singer, Melonie Collins! Yes, join the three of us as we listen to and discuss versions by Glen Miller, Etta James, Diane Schuur and BB King, Ella Fitzgerald and Joe Pass, Phoebe Snow, and of course Melonie Collins with the Side Street Strutters!

So is it "Oysters" or "Ersters"? In this episode of Same Difference, Johnny and AJ address this and many other linguistic questions posed in the song "Let's Call The Whole Thing Off". Along the way, you'll hear versions of this Jazz standard by Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers, Billie Holiday, Mel Torme, Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong, Harry Connick Jr., and new-to-us artist The Jazz Sisters.

After covering "Doxy" in the last episode, we decided to follow it up with the song that supposedly was the original version, "Jada". AJ and Johnny listen to and discuss versions of this Jazz standard by The Original New Orleans Jazz Band, Louis Prima, Doc Cheatham and Nicholas Payton, Sidney Bechet, The Side Street Strutters, and new-to-us artist Adam Swanson.

Ready for some good, fun straight ahead Jazz? AJ and Johnny take a look at the Sonny Rollins Jazz standard "Doxy"! You'll hear versions by Miles Davis with Sonny, Dexter Gordon, Red Mitchell, Branford Marsalis, Mike Jones, and new-to-us artist David Finck.

Wanna know how jazzy a show tune can get? Join AJ and Johnny as they answer that question while reviewing "Surrey With The Fringe On Top"! We'll discuss versions by Blossom Dearie, Mel Torme, Miles Davis, Sonny Rollins, and TWO new-to-us artists: Angela De Niro, and Joe Farnsworth.

Start the new year off on the right foot! Our friends Mike and Russ from The Adult Music Podcast join us on this episode of Same Difference to review the Jazz standard "You Don't Know What Love Is"! Tune in as FOUR Jazz fans listen to and discuss versions by Dinah Washington, Miles Davis, George Benson, Eric Dolphy, Sinne Eeg, and the John Hicks Trio.

It's our annual Christmas episode, and this year it's the Jazz standard "Nature Boy". Join AJ and Johnny as they try to figure out why this is considered a Christmas song by so many Jazz artists, including Nat King Cole, Harry Connick Jr., John Coltrane, Jason Wanner, new-to-us artist Laura Auer, and a super special surprise artist you won't wanna miss!

Is it a genuine compliment, an end-of-the-night lament, or simply a pick up line? AJ and Johnny will try to solve this question when "You'd Be So Nice To Come Home To" goes under the Same Difference microscope. Join us as we listen to and discuss versions by Dinah Shore, Frank Sinatra and June Hutton, Ella Fitzgerald, Chet Baker, Jim Hall and Paul Desmond, and new-to-us artist Danny Jonokuchi and the Revisionists.

"Sway" is under the Same Difference microscope this episode, but is it really Jazz? Join AJ and Johnny as they try to answer that question, with versions by Nelson Pinedo, Dean Martin, Cab Calloway and Scatman Crothers, Julie London, Diana Krall, and new-to-us (well, new to AJ anyway) artist Sal Valentinetti.

It's our annual "we're recording in the same room because AJ is in town for the Sun Valley Jazz Festival" episode! This time it's the Jazz/Blues standard "Aint Nobody's Business". Join us as we listen to and discuss versions by Bessie Smith, BB King, Billie Holiday, Wynton Marsalis with Willie Nelson, The Hot Sardines, and new-to-us artist The Rumblestrutters.

Spelled several different ways, and performed several different ways, it's the lighthearted "SWonderful" on this episode of Same Difference. Join AJ and Johnny as they listen to and discuss versions by Frank Sinatra, Benny Goodman, Diana Krall, Rod Stewart (yes, THAT Rod Stewart), the Shaymus Hanlin Quartet, and new-to-us artist Nicole Magolie.

With the often recorded Jazz standard "I Can't Give You Anything But Love", AJ establishes a new ranking level on this episode! You'll hear us discuss versions by Louis Armstrong, Billie Holiday, Duke Ellington, The Side Street Strutters, Ella Fitzgerald, and new-to-us artist Giacomo Gates. Come find out what the next level is  beyond "Obsidian"!

It's the delightful "Stars Fell On Alabama" under the Same Difference microscope this episode! Join AJ and Johnny as they listen to and discuss versions of this sometimes forgotten Jazz standard by Louis Armstrong, Billy Holiday, Ella Fitzgerald, Harry Connick Jr., Cannonball Adderley and John Coltrane, new-to-us artist the Boilermaker Jazz Band, and a special (and unplanned) tribute to the late Jimmy Buffett.

Time to revisit an old favorite! We originally covered "Fly Me To The Moon" way back on episode 2, but we were still finding our rhythm to the show then AND fine tuning our technical aspects. So, we thought we'd take a fresh look at this true Jazz standard. You'll hear versions by Frank Sinatra with Count Basie, Tony Bennett, Sinatra with Antonio Carlos Jobim, The Montclair Women's Big Band, Diana Krall, and new-to-us artist the Eik Trio.

A listener-suggested show! Well, ok, one of our loyal listeners suggested a new-to-us artist, and this was one of her best known covers, so here we go with "Moon River" on this edition of Same Difference! Join AJ and Johnny as they listen to and discuss versions by Henry Mancini, the Vince Guiraldi trio, Jon Batiste, Dr. John, Boots Randolph, Art Blakey & The Jazz Messengers, and new-to-us artist Stella Katherine Cole.

The song "Jeepers Creepers" seems like such a novelty song, but we're gonna dive in and see if there's some decent Jazz behind its comedic surface. Join us as we listen to versions by Louis Armstrong, Billie Holiday with the Benny Goodman Orchestra, Tony Bennett, Oscar Aleman, Doc Cheatham and Nicholas Payton, and new-to-us artist Swingadelic.

The gorgeous Frank Sinatra ballad "One For My Baby" is featured on this episode of Same Difference, but is it always done as a ballad? Tune in and you'll find out, with versions by Sinatra, Billie Holiday, Harry Belafonte, Tony Bennett and John Mayer, Ella Fitzgerald, and new-to-us artist The Antonella Santoro 5tet.

For this episode of Same Difference, we take another deep dive into a Jazz artist that we feel does not get the recognition she deserves. Ever heard of Mary Lou Williams? Yeah, probably not. We barely had, but as you will hear, Mary Lou Williams quietly directed the course of Jazz music during much of the 20th century. You'll hear music and interviews from this tragically overlooked artist, and you will be amazed at just how much she had to do with the development of Jazz over the years!

It's time for another dive into the sometimes risky world of John Coltrane, with his most interesting Jazz standard "Equinox" on this episode of Same Difference! Join AJ and Johnny as they listen to and discuss versions by Coltrane, Hubert Laws, Kenny Garrett, Tito Puente, Gato Barbieri, and new-to-us artist Stephen Riley.

On this very special episode of Same Difference, we're giving you a peek behind the "Velvet Rope" of our members-only Patreon content! AJ and Johnny have combined a few previous Patreon-exclusive episodes to bring you this look back at The Playboy Jazz festival. Along with their guests, A. Scott Galloway and Tom McGuinness, you'll hear a wealth of music recorded live at the PJF and other great Jazz festivals, as well as a lot of fond - and funny - memories from almost 40 years of attending this legendary weekend!

It's another experiment for us on this episode of Same Difference, as we feature ALL new-to-us artists (well, except for one). Join AJ and Johnny as they discuss versions of the Jazz standard "Puttin' On The Ritz" by Fred Astaire (the one we DO know), The Dr. Jazz Dixieland Band, Dukes And Dukies, Ashlae Blume, The Original Wildcat Jass Band, and Antonia Bennett.

We're actually surprised we haven't done this song already, but this episode brings you the very popular Jazz standard "I've Got You Under My Skin"! Join AJ and Johnny as they listen to and discuss versions by Frank Sinatra with Count Basie, Diana Krall, Dinah Washington, Charlie Parker, Louie Prima, Tony Bennett and Lady Gaga, and new-to-us artist Michael Sinatra (yes, they're related).

The fun Jazz standard "Old Devil Moon" takes a turn under the Same Difference microscope this episode. Join AJ and Johnny as they listen to and discuss versions by Charlie Spivak, Tony Bennett, Frank Sinatra, Mel Torme, Miles Davis, Tito Puente, and new-to-us artist Hilary Kole.

We've been talking about doing this for a long time. On this episode of Same Difference, we revisit the standard we started the whole podcast series with, Duke Ellington's "Take The A Train"! Join AJ and Johnny as they take a fresh look at this Jazz classic, with versions by Duke, Ella Fitzgerald, The Side Street Strutters, Tito Puente, and new-to-us artist Planet D NoNet.

It's a listener request! Herbie Hancock's "Watermelon Man" goes under the microscope on this edition of Same Difference. Join AJ and Johnny as they listen to and discuss versions of this Hard Bop Jazz standard by Herbie, Mongo Santamaria, Woody Herman, Buddy Guy, and new-to-us artist The Langley Ukulele Ensemble.

Are you familiar with the term "vocalese"? We may have mentioned it from time to time, but neither of us really know what it means. That is, until we recorded this episode! Join AJ and Johnny as we listen to and discuss versions of the casually fun Jazz standard "Doodlin'", which feature some fine examples of "vocalese". Along the way, you'll hear recordings by Horace Silver, Count Basie with Lambert, Hendricks, and Ross, Ray Charles, The Manhattan Transfer, Mark Murphy, and new-to-us artist Elly.

Jazz vocalist Shaymus Hanlin joins us for this edition of Same Difference, as 2 Jazz fans and 1 Jazz musician take in the beautiful ballad "I Fall In Love Too Easily". Join AJ, Johnny and Shaymus as they listen to and discuss versions by Frank Sinatra, Chet Baker, Miles Davis, Carmen McRae, the Harris Hamilton Quintet, and of course the Shaymus Hanlin Quartet!

Can AJ find us a version of "Smoke Gets In Your Eyes" that doesn't have any strings? Tune in to this episode of Same Difference and find out! Johnny and AJ will listen to and discuss versions of this beautiful Jazz standard by Dinah Washington, Sarah Vaughan, Nat King Cole, Clifford Brown, The Platters, Coleman Hawkins, and new-to-us artist Cait And The Critters.

We're going WAY back to the beginning - the VERY beginning - for this episode of Same Difference, as we listen to the very first commercially available Jazz recording, Livery Stable Blues! Join AJ and Johnny as they discuss versions of this pioneering Jazz standard by The Original Dixieland Jass Band, W.C. Handy's Memphis Blues Band, Acker Bilk, Kenny Ball, The Side Street Strutters, and new-to-us artist The Hot House Hooters.

If you've seen the movie Casablanca (and/or Sleepless In Seattle), then you're already familiar with this episode's standard, the romantic "As Time Goes By". Join AJ and Johnny as they listen to and discuss versions by Dooley Wilson, Louis Armstrong, Billie Holiday, Jimmy Durante, Anita O'Day, and new-to-us artist The Giovanni & Jasmine Tommaso Quintet.

So just who did write "Flying Home"? Who recorded it first? What's it all about? In this episode of Same Difference, AJ and Johnny answer all these questions and more, while listening to versions of this fun Jazz standard by Lionel Hampton, Ella Fitzgerald, Benny Goodman, Clarence "Gatemouth" Brown, Tito Puente, and new-to-us artist The Robert Bell Hot Swing Combo.

We're kicking off 2023 with the delightful Jazz standard "Shiny Stockings"! Join AJ and Johnny as they listen to and discuss versions by Count Basie & Ella Fitzgerald, The Side Street Strutters, Dexter Gordon, Dee Dee Bridgewater, Katie Thiroux, and new-to-us artist Swamp Kitchen.

It's our annual holiday episode, with the Christmas classic "Santa Claus Is Coming To Town"! Join AJ and Johnny as they listen to and discuss versions by Bing Crosby & Frank Sinatra, Chris Isaak & Stevie Nicks, Harry Connick Jr., Straight No Chaser, Arturo Sandoval, and new-to-us artist the Tiger Dixie Band.

"Good Morning Heartache" is under the microscope on this edition of  Same Difference! Join AJ and Johnny as they listen to and discuss versions by Billie Holiday, Chris Botti & Jill Scott, Tomy Bennett, Ella Fitzgerald, Rosemary Clooney, and new-to-us artist Mayte Alguacil. And to keep up on all things in the current Jazz world, check out the podcast "Something Came From Baltimore": https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/something-came-from-baltimore-jazz-blues-r-b-podcast/id1400504427

In the great tradition of Jazz - that is, experiment and improvise - we're trying a new format on this episode of Same Difference. Don't worry, we're not changing the show now and forever, but we thought we'd branch out and try looking at a specific Jazz musician (rather than a Jazz song) this time. While Jazz musicians know the name Sidney Bechet quite well, his is not a name most people recognize. He was every bit as groundbreaking as Louis Armstrong and Duke Ellington, yet he never got the "marquee value" that they did, so today AJ and Johnny take a look at the life of Sidney Bechet, and try to figure out why he's not a household name. You'll hear plenty of music from Sidney, as well as interviews with musicians from the Sun Valley Jazz Festival, who offered up their knowledge and understanding of this overlooked musical genius. And while we're trying out new concepts, we invite you to check out "Something Came From Baltimore", a Jazz podcast from our new friend Thomas Gouker. While our podcast, "Same Difference", delves into the history of Jazz, Thomas's podcast focuses on what's currently happening in Jazz, so the two compliment each other well. Try downloading "Something Came From Baltimore" wherever you get your "Same Difference" podcasts from, and check out the show's Facebook page here: https://www.facebook.com/tomfunproductions

We're back from the Sun Valley Jazz Festival and ready to go on Duke Ellington's "Caravan" for this episode of Same Difference. Join AJ and Johnny as they listen to and discuss versions by Duke, Nat King Cole, Dr. John, Wynton Marsalis, The Side Street Strutters, and new-to-us artist Vern Spevak. We also spend some time remembering great moments from Sun Valley!

It's an A-List of performers on this episode of Same Difference with the delightful Jazz standard "Nice Work If You Can Get It". Join AJ and Johnny as they listen to and discuss versions by Teddy Wilson & Billie Holiday, Miles Davis & Sarah Vaughn, Carmen McRae, Mel Torme, Tony Bennett, and new-to-us artist The Wendy Lee Taylor Quartet.

Time to explore some Woody Herman music, and what better place to start than his classic "Woodchopper's Ball"? Join AJ and Johnny as they listen to and discuss versions of this upbeat Jazz standard by Woody Herman, Duke Ellington, Bill Harris, Acker Bilk, and new-to-us artist Paulo Tomelleri.

It's our 100th episode! To celebrate this Same Difference milestone, we're taking a look at the King-Oliver-written-but-made-famous-by-Satchmo classic "West End Blues". Join AJ and Johnny as they listen to and discuss versions by King Oliver, Louis Armstrong, Jelly Roll Morton, Doc Severinsen, Cornet Chop Suey, and new-to-us artist Etta Baker.

Nina Simone's hit "My Baby Just Cares For Me" takes center stage on this episode of Same Difference! Join AJ and Johnny as they listen to and discuss versions by Nina, the King Cole Trio with Woody Herman, Julie London, Joe Williams and the Count Basie Orchestra, Cyndi Lauper (yes, THAT Cyndi Lauper!), and new-to-us artist Ledisi.

It's our first ever full-fledged Latin Jazz standard today, Tito Puente's most famous composition, "Oye Como Va", however it wasn't Tito who made it famous! Join AJ and Johnny as they discuss versions by Tito, Santana, Bobby Hutcherson, Celia Cruz, Tito Puente Jr., and new-to-us artist The New Orleans Nightcrawlers. Oh, and one more...

The Andrew Sisters' first big hit goes under the Same Difference microscope today, with the song "Bei Mir Bist Du Schoen". Join AJ and Johnny as they listen to and discuss versions by Ella Fitzgerald, Benny Goodman, Regina Carter, The Hot Sardines, and new-to-us artist Rebecca Parham.

Duke Ellington's upbeat standard "Perdido" takes the spotlight on this episode of Same Difference! Join AJ and Johnny as they listen to and discuss versions by Duke, Louis Armstrong, The Red Norvo Quintet (or is it a sextet?), Mar De Copa (well, um, sort of), "The Quintet" featuring Charlie Parker and Dizzy Gillespie, and new-to-us artist Art Lillard and Blue Heaven featuring William Ash. Plus, hear firsthand how Johnny pulled songs from his collection and sent them to AJ without actually listening to them first!

Let's have some good, light-hearted fun with the Nat King Cole classic "Straighten Up And Fly Right"! Join Johnny and AJ as they discuss this beloved Jazz standard, and listen to versions by the King Cole Trio, Natalie Cole, Carmen McRae, Jeff Goldblum, The Side Street Strutters, and new-to-us artist Gwen Perry.

Due to numerous summer obligations resulting in very limited time to record a new show, we've decided to give you all a look behind the velvet rope of our Patreon episodes! AJ and Johnny did a 2-part exploration of Nina Simone's career and music, and we've combined them into this one Same Difference regular episode. Take a listen here, learn all about Nina, and if you like what you hear, please subscribe to our monthly Patreon-exclusive content at https://www.patreon.com/samedifferencejazzpodcast

Learn the truth about "Tuxedo Junction" on this episode of Same Difference; It was a big hit for Glenn Miller, but it was NOT his song! Join AJ and Johnny as they listen to and discuss the original version by Erskine Hawkins, as well as versions by Glenn Miller, Gene Krupa, Tito Puente, Ella Fitzgerald, and new-to-us artist Blue Champagne.

Our friend and esteemed music scholar, Dr. Steve Baur, joins us again for this edition of Same Difference, as we listen to and discuss various versions of the Miles Davis standard "Milestones", plus you'll get a full education on the definition and history of Modal Jazz. In addition to Miles, we'll hear versions by Jerry Garcia and David Grisman, the Turtle Island String Quartet, the Phil Collins Big Band, the San Francisco Jazz Collective, and Christian McBride.

It's the Ella Fitzgerald and Chick Webb signature song, "A Tisket A Tasket", on this episode of Same Difference! In addition to the original, we'll listen to and discuss versions by Natalie Cole, The Manhattan Transfer, Take 6, Sugarpie and The Candymen, and new-to-us artist the Mint Julep Jazz Band.

It's the song with 2 meanings on this episode of Same Difference! "Sophisticated Lady" as an instrumental has a decidedly different story than a version with vocals, and AJ and Johnny will explore both, including versions by Duke Ellington, Thelonius Monk, Toots Thieleman, Boz Scaggs, Mel Torme, and new-to-us artist Marian Barahona.

One of the most recognizable movie theme songs of all time, it's "The Pink Panther" under the Same Difference microscope this episode! Join AJ and Johnny as they talk about the hilarious film and its sequels, plus listen to versions of this Jazz standard by Henry Mancini, Quincy Jones, St. Germain, Octobop, Kyle Eastwood, and new-to-us artist The Phil Norman Tentet!

In a Same Difference first, this episode features a song that neither of us were very familiar with (Johnny not at all)! It's "Nardis" under the microscope this episode, and we've got versions by Bill Evans, Cannonball Adderley, the San Francisco Jazz Collective, Joe Henderson, Damian Erskine, and new-to-us artist Trio Circle (although several of these artists are new to us!).

How fun can a Jazz song be? Well, "Alright OK You Win" might hold the answer! Join us this episode as we listen to versions of this lighthearted Jazz standard by Joe Williams and The Count Basie Orchestra, Ella Fitzgerald with The Tommy Flanagan Trio, Dianne Schuur, Nancy Wilson, Tony Bennett and Diana Krall, and new-to-us artist Wicked Rumble.

It's the delightfully delicious "Frim Fram Sauce" on this episode of Same Difference! John AJ and Johnny as they listen to and discuss versions by Nat King Cole, Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong, Diana Krall, John Pizzarelli, Down For The Count, and new-to-us artist Phil Wiggins and The Chesapeake Sheiks!

We're going back to some good ol' New Orleans style Jazz - with an absolutely A-list of New Orleans Jazz musicians - on this episode of Same Difference, with the well known standard "Do You Know What It Means (To Miss New Orleans)?". Join AJ and Johnny as they listen to and discuss versions by Louis Armstrong, Ellis Marsalis, Harry Connick Jr. (with Dr. John), Jimmy Buffett (with Allen Toussaint), the Preservation Hall Jazz Band, and new-to-us artist The Hot Magnolias.

We're going back to Bebop on this episode of Same Difference with the early Bop standard "Ornithology". Join AJ and Johnny as they listen to and discuss versions by Charlie Parker, Miles Davis, Sonny Stitt, Joshua Redman, Hilton Ruiz (with Tito Puente), and new-to-us artist The Bohusian Big Band.

It's another show tune gone Jazz on this edition of Same Difference, with the Guys And Dolls classic "If I Were A Bell"! Join AJ and Johnny as they listen to and dissect versions by Dinah Washington, Miles Davis, Ella Fitzgerald, Oscar Peterson, Count Basie with Sarah Vaughn and Joe Williams, and new-to-us (believe it or not) artist Woody Shaw.

It's back to the show tunes for this episode of Same Difference, with the beautiful standard "I Loves You Porgy" from Porgy & Bess! Join AJ and Johnny as they review versions by Billie Holiday, Nina Simone, Miles Davis, Arturo Sandoval, Toots Thielemans, and new-to-us artist Gerti Raym.

We're kicking off 2022 with "Limehouse Blues"! Join AJ and Johnny as they listen to and discuss versions of this lively Gypsy Jazz standard by Benny Goodman, Django Reinhardt, Oscar Aleman, David Grisman, Cannonball Adderly and John Coltrane, and new-to-us artist The Mississippi Hot Club!

To get you in the holiday spirit, AJ happily chose one of his least favorite Christmas songs for this edition of Same Difference! Join us for versions of "Jingle Bells" by Bing Crosby with the Andrew Sisters, Crosby with Sinatra, Duke Ellington, Etta James, Natalie Cole, and new-to-us artist The Gabriel Latchin Trio. And be sure to check out the companion episode on Patreon.com this month. The two pair quite nicely!

Need a pick me up song? Want a feel good episode to make you laugh and smile? This is the one, folks! It's the Bing Crosby classic "Pennies From Heaven" on this edition of Same Difference. Join AJ and Johnny as they listen to, discuss, and generally smile with versions by Bing (with special guests!), Count Basie, Billie Holiday and Teddy Wilson, Dave Brubeck, Louie Prima, and new-to-us artist Brian Newman. This episode is one for the books!

It's one of Frank Sinatra's most well known standards, the classic "Come Fly With Me", at the table for discussion on this episode of Same Difference. Join AJ and Johnny as they dissect versions by Sinatra, Curtis Stigers, Count Basie, James Darren, The Swingin' Fireballs, and new-to-us artist David Campbell.

Tony Bennett's signature classic "I Left My Heart In San Francisco" is the topic of this edition of Same Difference! Join AJ and Johnny as they listen to and discuss versions by Mr. Bennett, Julie London, Duke Ellington, Marc Toussaint, Van Morrison, and new-to-us artist Jose Paulo.

"Honeysuckle Rose" goes under the microscope on this episode of Same Difference. Join AJ and Johnny as they listen to and discuss versions by Fats Waller, Benny Carter, Patti Austin, Nat King Cole, Thelonius Monk, and new-to-us-but-definitely-not-artist Rhoda Scott!

It's an A-List roster for our 75th episode of Same Difference, and an "obsidian" level song choice as well! The immortal "St. Louis Blues" is under the microscope, with versions by The Original Dixieland Jazz Band, Louis Armstrong, Bessie Smith, Cornet Chop Suey, Billie Holiday, and new artist Bruce Innes!

Early shades of Bebop come to light on this episode of Same Difference, as we discuss versions of the Charlie Parker classic "Moose The Mooch" from Bud Powell, The Dirty Dozen Brass Band, Joshua Redman, Phish, and new-to-us artist The Heads Of State!

Is it sultry, seductive, or just a song about a drug? Tune in to this episode of Same Difference to find out, and hear versions of the Jazz standard "Why Don't You Do Right" by Benny Goodman with Peggy Lee, Amy Irving, Hugh Laurie, Sinead O'Connor, Natalie Cole, and new-to-us artist Simone Kopmajer.

"How High The Moon" goes under the microscope on this episode of Same Difference! We listen to versions of this wonderfully light-hearted Jazz standard by Ella Fitzgerald, Charlie Parker, Sonny Stitt, Tito Puente, former new-to-us artist Sugarpie and the Candymen, and the latest new-to-us artist Leticia Walker.

You've been hearing rumors that your spouse has been fooling around with someone else, but when confronted about it, his/her answer is "Do Nothing Till You Hear From Me". Do you buy it? Well, on this episode of Same Difference we learn that it's all in the delivery! Join us as we examine versions of this Jazz standard from Duke Ellington & Louis Armstrong, Billie Holiday, Dr. John, Harry Connick Jr., The Side Street Strutters, and new-to-us artist Svetlana and The Delany Five.

Duke Ellington's "Mood Indigo" is the standard of choice on this episode of Same Difference. Join AJ and Johnny as they look at versions by Frank Sinatra, Duke & Louis Armstrong, Duke & Coleman Hawkins, Thelonius Monk, and new-to-us artist Mariel Bildsten.

The playful standard "Makin' Whoopie" gets under the sheets with us on this episode of Same Difference! We'll examine versions by Nat King Cole, Ray Charles, The Count Basie Orchestra, The Taylor Grisman Quartet, Dr. John and Ricki Lee Jones, and new-to-us artist Lyn Stanley.

You'll be on your feet jumpin' to the music for this episode of Same Difference, as AJ and Johnny discuss various versions of the Count Basie classic "Jumpin' At The Woodside". In addition to the Count, you'll hear versions by Benny Goodman, Buddy Rich, Oscar Peterson, Duke Ellington, and new-to-us band Down For The Count!

Originally from the musical "Oklahoma", it's the song "People Will Think We're In Love" on this episode of Same Difference. Join AJ and Johnny as they examine the evolution of this song, with versions by Frank Sinatra, Lena Horne, Nancy Wilson, The Hot Sardines, Eddie "Lockjaw" Davis, and new-to-us artist Dick Weller.

Noted musicologist A. Scott Galloway joins AJ and Johnny for this episode of Same Difference to discuss various versions of the Jazz standard "All Of Me". You'll hear versions by Louis Armstrong, Frank Sinatra, Count Basie, Chaka Khan, Tony Bennett, and Little Steven... yes, THAT Little Steven! There's also a lot of reminiscing about the Playboy Jazz Festival, which would have been happening right when this episode drops, and which will hopefully be back next year.

It's the teasingly fun Jazz standard "Comes Love" under the microscope on this edition of Same Difference. Join AJ and Johnny as they listen to and discuss versions by Billie Holiday, Ella Fitzgerald, Sidsel Storm, Joni Mitchell, The Hot Sardines, and new-to-us artists Scott Bradlee and Hailey Gill. 

Billie Holiday's lightly melancholic "Willow Weep For Me" is the song for this edition of Same Difference. Join AJ and Johnny as they examine versions by Jason Wanner, Tony Bennett, Steve Miller, the Taylor Grisman quartet, and new-to-us artist Katie Thiroux!

Noted Jazz historian (and our regularly referenced critic!) Scott Yanow joins us on this episode to discuss the Jelly Roll Morton Jazz standard "King Porter Stomp". You'll hear us dissect versions by Benny Goodman, Fletcher Henderson, Louis Armstrong, Gil Evans, and new-to-us-but-not-to-Scott artist Octobop. Join us for some fun, and an education from a real Jazz scholar!

It's an A-List lineup covering a top shelf Jazz classic, "I Get A Kick Out Of You" on this episode of Same Difference. Join AJ and Johnny as they discuss versions by Ethyl Merman, Charlie Parker, Ella Fitzgerald, Dave Brubeck, Tony Bennett, and new (to us) artist Eddie Brewer and The Manic Episodes!

The early days of Bebop are explored today, as we listen to various versions of the Dizzy Gillespie classic "A Night In Tunisia". You'll hear Charlie Parker, Ella Fitzgerald, Miles Davis, "The Quintet", and new (to us) artist Doug Webb take their shots at this song that dances right on the line between Big Band and Bebop, and can go far in either direction!

It's Erroll Garner's "Misty" under the Same Difference microscope this time around, and it's a powerhouse of A-listers covering the song! AJ and Johnny dissect versions by Ella Fitzgerald, Sarah Vaughn, Etta James, Stan Getz, and new (to us) artist Fleur Seule. It's an all female vocal edition (Mr. Getz does the sole instrumental) of Same Difference!

In honor of the late great Chick Corea's passing, we're dissecting various versions of his classic Jazz standard "Windows" on this episode of Same Difference. You'll hear versions by the Brubeck & Widelock Duo, Bobby McFerrin, Flora Purim, Hubert Laws, Andy Fusco, and of course, Chick Corea. Join us for an hour of "nice" Jazz!

It's Lee Morgan's classic "The Sidewinder" under the dissection lights on this episode of Same Difference. Join AJ and Johnny as they examine versions by The Quincy Jones Orchestra, Claudio Roditi, James Brown (yes, THAT James Brown), Michel Camilo, and the Turtle Island String Quartet. It's one of those songs that, while you may not recognize the name, in all likelihood you've heard it before!

Venture deep into Johnny's side of the Venn Diagram as he and AJ look the Jazz standard "Giant Steps"! We'll examine versions by John Coltrane, Toots Thieleman, Arturo Sandoval, Lionel Hampton, Ernie Krivda, and Michel Petrucciani. Will AJ survive an hour of 12-tone Jazz? Tune in and find out!

It's the feel-good standard "Candy" under the microscope on this episode of Same Difference. Join us as we dissect versions by Nat King Cole, Big Maybelle, John Pizzarelli, Joe Williams, Dr. John, and New Artist Corner feature The Blue Moon Big Band (and DANG these guys are good!).

All aboard for the Night Train! On this episode of Same Difference, we take a listen to various versions of this classic, slinky Jazz standard, including such artists as Louis Prima, Oscar Peterson, and Sun Valley Jazz favorites The Side Street Strutters!

It's the Mel Torme penned holiday classic "The Christmas Song" on this episode of Same Difference. We've got versions from the likes of Spyro Gyra and Vince Guaraldi under the microscope, and a wonderful discussion about the holidays... well, ok, it's just us talking about Christmas and Jazz, but you get the idea!

We let our first Patreon supporter, Jeannine, pick this episode's song, and she picked a beauty; it's the Charlie Parker standard "Now's The Time" under the Same Difference microscope this week! Enjoy versions by Parker, Sonny Rollins, and new-to-us artist Marcus Printup, as well as others. See what happens when you join our Patreon site? YOU too can pick us a song!

It's the Dave Brubeck Quartet's groundbreaking standard "Take 5" under the microscope on this episode of Same Difference. Join AJ and Johnny as they dissect several versions of this legendary Jazz tune, including artists Quincy Jones, Al Jarreau, and Tito Puente!

The elegant "Stella By Starlight" is under the microscope on this episode of Same Difference. Join AJ and Johnny as they explore versions of this Jazz standard from Miles Davis, George Benson, Oscar Peterson, and others. Who knew the original version had lyrics?

For our landmark 50th episode, we went with a true classic, "Hello Dolly"! Join AJ and Johnny as they discuss various versions of this show tune gone pop tune gone Jazz, including a swinging version with Frank Sinatra and the Count Basie orchestra, and of course, the legendary Satchmo version!

Due to the COVID pandemic, the 2020 Sun Valley Jazz Festival was forced to cancel this year, so we decided to do a special episode of Same Difference and take us all back to relive last year's fun! Join us for our VERY special interview with Terry Myers, leader of the Tommy Dorsey Orchestra, as we talk about Jazz, the Dorsey band, Sinatra, Sun Valley, and much much more!

Is the Jazz standard "When I Fall In Love" actually Jazz, or is it merely a Pop song done by Jazz artists? Join AJ and Johnny as they examine various versions of this Nat King Cole classic in an effort to answer this most challenging question!

Notable Jazz bassist Steve "Gar" Gargaro joins us to discuss various versions of the Miles Davis standard "All Blues" for this edition of Same Difference. Join AJ, Johnny and Gar as they examine various versions from artists like Dee Dee Bridgewater, Peter Frampton, and Los Angeles based fusion Jazz band Vague!

"I Got Rhythm" takes the spotlight on this episode of Same Difference. Join AJ and Johnny as they listen to and discuss various versions of this classic Jazz standard, including renditions by The Yellowjackets, Cab Calloway, and Canada's Nikki Yanofsky! Was she really only 16 when she recorded it?

One of the most popular Jazz standards of them all, "Embraceable You", takes the spotlight on this episode of Same Difference. Join AJ and Johnny as they listen to and discuss some classic versions of this standard, including recordings from Miles Davis, Billie Holiday, and Nat King Cole.

We are graced with a special guest, Dr. Steve Baur, musicologist and professor at Dalhousie University in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada, as we discuss various versions of the Jazz classic "Sing Sing Sing". Dr. Baur has a wealth of information on the song, the artists, and the history of Jazz, and he was more than happy to share his insight with us. It's an episode you won't want to miss!

AJ and Johnny delve into various versions of the Frank Sinatra classic "Luck Be A Lady Tonight" on this episode of Same Difference... what's that? Frank's not the original? Well who is then? Tune and find out!

Count Basie swings us into the groove this week, with his signature Jazz standard "1 O'Clock Jump" on this episode of Same Difference. Join AJ and Johnny as they listen to various versions of this absolute classic, including cuts from Clarence "Gatemouth" Brown, and a historic performance from the Benny Goodman Orchestra!

It's actually 2 Jazz standards on this episode of Same Difference, and it's our first special guest too! Join AJ, Johnny, and our friend Bill as we listen to and discuss various versions of the combined classic "Just A Gigolo" and "I Aint Got Nobody".

It's the Jazz classic "They Can't Take That Away From Me" under the microscope on this edition of Same Difference. Join AJ and Johnny as they dissect various versions of this standard, including Satchmo, Bird, and Ella!

The Chick Corea penned (well, sort of) Jazz standard "Spain" goes under the microscope on this edition of Same Difference. Join AJ and Johnny as they delve into various versions, and as an added bonus, see if Johnny can figure out what "the mystery song" is!

We're heading to the shady side of Storyville in this episode, as AJ and Johnny look at the Louis Armstrong standard "Basin Street Blues". We've got some tasty versions of this classic, including Dr. John and Miles Davis. Take a listen, and tell a friend!

The Billie Holiday classic "God Bless The Child" is the subject for this episode of Same Difference. Join AJ and Johnny as they listen to and discuss various versions of this Jazz standard, including some unlikely artists like Blood, Sweat & Tears and Santana with the Isley Brothers!

"Bewitched" is the song under the microscope on this episode of Same Difference! AJ and Johnny discuss several versions of this Jazz standard, including versions by Sinatra, Ella, and our new favorite gal, Melonie Collins & The Side Street Strutters!

One of the finest Jazz recordings ever, the Miles Davis standard "So What", takes the spotlight this week on Same Difference. AJ and Johnny examine various versions of this timeless Jazz classic, including takes from George Benson and Chick Corea!

It's Artie Shaw's signature standard "Begin The Beguine" under the microscope on this week's episode. Join AJ and Johnny as they examine various versions of this mellow classic, including renditions from Tony Bennett, Charlie Parker, and, yes, Pete Townshend!

The beautifully melancholic standard "Stardust" is under the microscope in this episode of Same Difference. Join AJ and Johnny as they take a listen to several versions of this Jazz classic, all of which (excepting the new artist showcase) come from Johnny's personal collection!

We return to our regular show format this week, with a look at the Jazz standard "Avalon". Join AJ and Johnny as they listen to and discuss various version of this Jazz classic, that actually started life in a Puccini opera (well, sort of)!

This week we wrap up our special 3-part series on the Sun Valley Jazz And Music Festival. Join AJ and Johnny for some great Jazz music, plus interviews with some of the performers from last year's festival in Sun Valley, Idaho!

In this episode we continue our look back at the 2019 Sun Valley Jazz And Music Festival! You'll hear music AND interviews with Yve Evans, Cornet Chop Suey, and the Midiri Brothers, and of course AJ and Johnny will share their memories of this special Jazz festival.

We take a bit of a departure this week as we present the first of a 3-part series focusing on the 2019 Sun Valley Jazz And Music Festival! Join AJ and Johnny as they play you selections AND INTERVIEWS from the stars of Sun Valley, and some of their favorite standards.

What better Jazz standard for the holidays is there than the Peanuts gang's theme song, "Linus And Lucy"? Join AJ and Johnny as they take a listen to several versions of Vince Guaraldi's signature classic!

This week, AJ and Johnny listen to and discuss various versions of "Send In The Clowns", a song that has supposedly been recorded somewhere between 6 and 900 times!

For the first time in this podcast's history, AJ and Johnny are face to face in the same room to discuss different versions of the Fusion Jazz standard "Birdland". Join Johnny and a slightly subdued AJ (maybe he was actually afraid Johnny was going to throw something at him) as they pick apart their, um, favorite versions!

The elegant "In A Sentimental Mood" is the focus of this week's episode. Dim the lights, pour yourself a scotch, and join AJ and Johnny as they listen to and critique various versions of this Duke Ellington Jazz standard.

The sultry song "Fever" gets reviewed and dissected this week, but guess what? The Peggy Lee version we all know and love is NOT the original version! Join AJ and Johnny as they discuss several different takes of this Jazz standard.

2 Jazz fans discuss Satin Do

This week it's the beautifully melancholic "My Funny Valentine" under the microscope. Join AJ and Johnny as they examine various versions of this Jazz standard. Does Johnny like the lyrics? Does AJ like Jerry Garcia's version? Tune in to find out!

This week we take a listen to the delightful love song "It's Only A Paper Moon". We have several different versions - each with its own unique spin - of this lighthearted Jazz standard to discuss, so join us for this all around feel good episode!

Yes, we've switched to bi-weekly, and this week we're back! Join AJ and Johnny as they discuss the Jazz standard "What A Difference A Day Makes". From its earliest beginnings (as what seems a completely different song) to our New Artist Corner, we have a wide variety of versions for your enjoyment this week.

After a week hiatus, we're back with a look at the popular Jazz standard "It Don't Mean A Thing (If It Aint Got That Swing)". Duke Ellington made it famous, Mel Torme took it to dizzying heights, and Dr. John poured his own unique gumbo all over it. Join us as we listen to these and other versions of this Jazz classic!

Is "Salt Peanuts" really a Jazz standard, or is it just such a significant song to the development of Jazz that it has to be included on any Jazz standard list? In this week's episode, AJ and Johnny discuss this question, and play you some extraordinary versions of this revered song. Buckle your seat belt for this one!

This week's episode takes a look at the controversial Jazz standard "Strange Fruit". With its personal and serious subject matter, it is often a bold move for an artist to cover this Billie Holiday classic, and we've selected an array of renderings of this most challenging song to listen to and discuss. Please join us!

In this week's episode, AJ and Johnny take a look at various versions of the Jazz standard "Cry Me A River". From not being over it to being WELL over it to, well, not really sure how you feel, this song can be an emotional roller coaster or a solid "take a hike". Come along for the ride!