98: A Kindred Spirit in Kendrick Scott

Renowned composer and drummer Kendrick Scott is putting anecdotes of his learnings from mentor and distinguished trumpeter, Terence Blanchard, into action by leveraging his musical gifts into a visceral artform of healing and redemption. Through original music mixed with poetry and striking visuals, the multimedia event entitled, “UNEARTHED,” featured Scott collaborating with former Houston poet laureate, Deborah D.E.E.P. Mouton, the acclaimed Harlem String Quartet along with a trio of talented jazz musicians. Hosted by the arts organization, DACAMERA, the production served as a tribute to the tragic history behind “Sugar Land 95,” the collective name given to the 94 Black men and one woman who were part of a state-run convict leasing program of the late 1800s following the abolition of slavery. Their bodies, buried in unmarked graves, were discovered five years ago during an excavation project in the now trendy suburb of Sugar Land, Texas. I SEE U ventured offsite to tour an exhibit of the Sugar Land 95 Memorial Project in Episode #46. Efforts to expand the memorial are currently underway with the construction of an outdoor learning area and a revitalized cemetery slated to be completed by 2025. In this week’s episode, host Eddie Robinson chats in-studio with Houston-native, Kendrick Scott about his decision to shed light on an untold, dark history. We’ll hear exclusive audio excerpts from the one-night-only event which premiered in May at Houston’s Wortham Theater. Scott also shares inspiration behind the creation of his band, Oracle and reveals how the pandemic, the quarantining, as well as the isolation all played a significant role in the recording of his latest Blue Note release, Corridors. Check out our companion Spotify playlist that celebrates acclaimed composer, drummer and Houston-native, Kendrick Scott. This playlist includes Scott's many inspirations, current collaborators and heroes.