George Duke: Untold Stories of Jef Lee Johnson, Miles Davis & The Cure | 2013 Radio Archive
In this rare February 2013 radio interview, legendary keyboardist, composer, and producer George Duke joins Joe Kelley on The Upper Room with Joe Kelley at WVOF 88.5 FM in Fairfield, Connecticut, for a deeply personal conversation celebrating the life and musical genius of guitarist Jef Lee Johnson.
Recorded just months before Duke's passing, this intimate conversation captures the warmth, humor, honesty, and extraordinary musical knowledge of one of jazz, funk, and R&B's most influential artists.
George shares the heartbreaking moment he learned of Jef Lee Johnson's passing, recalls their 12-year musical partnership, and explains why Johnson was unlike any guitarist he had ever encountered.
Inside this remarkable conversation:
- George Duke remembers his close friendship and musical collaborations with Jef Lee Johnson.
- The story of how Rachelle Ferrell introduced Duke to Johnson's extraordinary guitar playing.
- Behind-the-scenes memories of recording Déjà Vu and the forthcoming DreamWeaver album.
- Duke discusses his tribute to Miles Davis and the influence of Sly and the Family Stone.
- The remarkable story of Johnson returning to the stage following serious health challenges.
- George reveals how he came to remix a recording by The Cure—and what he thought of the results.
- Memories of Don Cornelius, Soul Train, Stanley Clarke, and a lifetime devoted to music.
- Duke offers timeless advice to young musicians about developing their own musical identity.
Throughout the conversation, George's admiration for Jef Lee Johnson shines through, revealing a friendship built on mutual respect, musical adventure, and a shared commitment to artistic individuality.
Originally recorded: February 2013
Original broadcast: The Upper Room with Joe Kelley, WVOF 88.5 FM, Fairfield, Connecticut
Host: Joe Kelley
Guest: George Duke
Presented by: Musicians Reveal with Joe Kelley
This archival edition preserves the original conversation, with music selections from the radio broadcast removed.
Explore more exclusive conversations with legendary musicians and previously unheard radio archives at MusiciansReveal.com.
© Musicians Reveal with Joe Kelley. Original interview recording.
