Veronica Swift | The Storyteller

Classic Episode 338 - Originally aired January 7, 2021

This episode is dedicated in loving memory of Hod O’Brien

Step into the world of acclaimed jazz vocalist Veronica Swift, an artist who literally grew up immersed in music.

Veronica, the daughter of jazz pianist Hod O’Brien and vocalist Stephanie Nakasian, recorded her first album at age nine and spent her childhood surrounded by musicians who helped shape American jazz. She has already performed alongside Wynton Marsalis, Chris Botti, Michael Feinstein, Benny Green, and other giants of the genre.

Joining Jeremiah from Scarborough, England, Veronica discusses her remarkable musical upbringing, life on the road, and why she considers jazz “American classical music.” She shares how classical music, opera, rock, heavy metal, bebop, and swing have influenced her artistry—and why she believes,  “We are as good as what we expose ourselves to.”

The conversation also explores the pandemic’s devastating impact on jazz clubs and live performance, the relationship between music and emotion, and Veronica’s belief that the great venues where musicians perform can become almost sacred spaces.

In one of the episode’s most personal moments, Veronica remembers her father, the legendary jazz pianist Hod O’Brien, who died in 2016. She reflects on his influence, his humility, and the chance he had to watch his daughter’s career take flight. This episode is in his memory.

Ultimately, Veronica sees herself as more than a vocalist: “She is a storyteller.”

“Music will change, art will change, the way we talk, the way we share...but storytelling transcends time.”

VERONICA SWIFT

VERONICA SWIFT INSTAGRAM

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