Originally published June 16, 2011.
Pianist and singer Barbara Carroll has seen it hall: Charlie Parker and Art Tatum on 52nd street. She once played with Benny Goodman. The legendary Leonard Feather famously called her “The first girl ever to play bebop piano.” At 86 years of age, Carroll showcased a clinic on 88 keys live in WBGO’s studio. During her performance and interview, she talked about blurring the line between jazz and cabaret, and her “65 year old love affair with Manhattan.” Carroll celebrates the release of her new CD “How Long Has This Been Going On” at Dizzy’s Club Coca Cola beginning this Tuesday, June 21st through Sunday, 26th.