113. Morgan Freeman: His Life, His Voice, Shawshank and Symphonic Blues

Episode 113: Morgan Freeman is one of the greatest actors and narrators of our time. He is also an incredibly joyful, thoughtful and wonderful human being. Morgan joins us for a rare long-form conversation about his extraordinary life, his unmistakable voice, the art of narration, The Shawshank Redemption, playing God in Bruce Almighty and the music that helped shape America: the blues.

Morgan is joined by Eric Meier, his business partner and an executive producer and co-producer of their latest project, Morgan Freeman’s Symphonic Blues Experience. This ambitious album and live production brings together authentic Mississippi Delta blues, symphony orchestra, cinematic storytelling and Morgan’s narration. Eric is also Morgan’s fellow co-owner of the legendary Ground Zero Blues Club in Clarksdale, Mississippi. Together, they discuss their friendship, their creative partnership, the future of the blues and their mission to preserve this essential American music while carrying it into places it has never gone before. Morgan Freeman’s Symphonic Blues Experience features an extraordinary collection of artists, including Taj Mahal, Keb’ Mo’ and the Chineke! Orchestra.

We also dive into Morgan's approach to narration. Does he change the script? How does rhythm affect the meaning of a line? Is narrating different from acting, or are they ultimately the same craft?

Perhaps our favorite part of this conversation is Morgan’s humility, humor and the laughs we share. We hope you enjoy our conversation with our new friends, Morgan Freeman and Eric Meier!

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