The Third Story podcast features long-form interviews with musicians and members of the creative class, hosted by me, Leo Sidran.
Their stories of discovery, loss, ambition, identity, improvisation, risk, and reward are deeply moving and compelling for all of us as we embark on our own creative journeys.
Most recent episode: Remembering Phil Upchurch
Leo Sidran (photo by Tom Warburton)
Singer-songwriter Madison Cunningham on the personal and artistic transformations behind her new album Ace, her early musical influences, navigating young adulthood, the difference between happiness and contentment, and how a “slow burn” approach has shaped her voice, her craft, and her career.
Singer Theo Bleckmann on growing up in Germany, training as a soprano and figure skater before discovering jazz and moving to New York to study with Sheila Jordan, building a life in music, collaborating with artists like Meredith Monk, Laurie Anderson, and Ben Monder, community, teaching, queerness, and the meaning of “a life in music” rather than “a career in jazz,” and his new album Love & Anger.
Singer-songwriter dodie on growing up online, setting boundaries, mental health, and finding peace in her new album Not For Lack of Trying.
Guitarist and bassist Phil Upchurch was a musician’s musician who played on more than a thousand recordings. He passed away on November 23. My dad, Ben Sidran, was his friend and collaborator for over 50 years. In this episode, we remember Phil’s life and legacy: the sessions, the stories, the generosity, and the unmistakable sound that made him a foundational figure in American music. A tribute to a true original.