Universal Truth, with Emmet Cohen

Emmet Cohen makes music for the people. That isn’t to say he panders or dumbs it down. Cohen is simply a pianist who puts connection at the center of his performance ethic, whether he’s burning down the bandstand, lighting up a livestream or laying it down in the studio. He has also made a point of seeking out his jazz elders and welcoming younger fans into the fold, all with a spirit of upbeat discovery. There’s a reason DownBeat’s July cover story bears the headline “Emmet Cohen: Messenger of Joy.” Cohen recently came through Philadelphia with his tour Miles and Coltrane at 100 and stopped by WRTI for a lively chat. Along with saxophonist Tivon Pennicott, he also performed the title suite from his new album, Universal Truth. Watch the performance of the “Universal Truth” suite: youtu.be/3O-9LYjxj88 Watch our interview with Emmet Cohen: youtu.be/N-Cps3TDKvI Chapters 00:00 — Intro 02:05 — Miles & Coltrane at 100 05:12 — The Rise of Emmet's Place 12:10 — Building a Worldwide Jazz Community 16:25 — Reaching New Audiences 22:08 — Emmet Cohen on AI 24:22 — Why Young People Are Finding Jazz 29:50 — The Meaning of Universal Truth 33:00 — Live Piano Performance: “Eternal Glimpse” 34:10 — Writing Music Inspired by Miles & Coltrane 37:40 — Legacy, Mentorship and What Lasts 40:35 — Becoming the “Vibe Provider” 42:42 — Josh & Nate React 44:44 — “This I Dig” 50:47 — Credits Want to support The Late Set? Become a WRTI member: wrti.org/donate Follow us on Instagram: instagram.com/wrtimusic Subscribe to our YouTube: youtube.com/@WRTImusic Write us an email: editor@wrti.org