Mathew Winkler – Who Took the 'A' Train?: Exploring the Legacy of Joya Sherrill

Mathew Winkler’s presentation takes you on a captivating journey into the life and legacy of Joya Sherrill, the pioneering jazz vocalist who worked with musical legends like Duke Ellington and Benny Goodman.
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Mathew Winkler’s presentation takes you on a captivating journey into the life and legacy of Joya Sherrill, the pioneering jazz vocalist who worked with musical legends like Duke Ellington and Benny Goodman. Through his Leadership-in-Action project, Mathew shines a spotlight on Sherrill’s profound influence on the jazz world and her often-overlooked contributions as a Black female artist navigating a male-dominated industry. His documentary, “Who Took the 'A' Train?”, delves into Sherrill’s role in shaping the iconic sound of jazz, including her contributions to the timeless classic “Take the 'A' Train.”

Mathew invites viewers behind the scenes of his documentary-making process, sharing his research journey that involved digging through archival footage, conducting interviews with jazz historians, and engaging in heartfelt conversations with those who knew Sherrill personally. The presentation offers an inside look at the challenges and rewards of uncovering the story of this underappreciated artist, emphasizing the powerful role storytelling plays in preserving cultural history.

Come hear how Mathew’s work not only repositions Sherrill as a central figure in jazz history but also offers a compelling reflection on race, gender, and the music industry. Through his project, viewers will gain a deeper appreciation for Sherrill’s legacy and the broader impact of her contributions to American music.

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