Wednesday, 2/11/2026, 1pm - Interview Special on Midday Jazz with Chris Cortez

Don Dixon

Trumpeter and vocalist, Benny Benack III checks in with Chris Cortez today. Emmy-nominated trumpeter and singer Benny Benack III has proven to be that rarest of talents: not only a fiery trumpet player with a stirring command of the post-bop trumpet vernacular in the vein of Kenny Dorham and Freddie Hubbard, but also a singer with a sly, mature, naturally expressive delivery in the post-Sinatra mold, performing standards and his own astute songs with a thrilling sense of showmanship. His dual talents were recognized by Downbeat magazine in 2022 where he appeared as not only the #2 Rising Star Male Vocalist but also a top Rising Star Trumpeter in their critics’ poll. Now in 2024, Benny was voted the #1 Rising Star Male Jazz Vocalist and #8 Rising Star Trumpeter. His superb intonation and bracing virtuosity enable him to handle astounding feats of originally composed vocalese (complex solos with written lyrics). On top of it all, he’s a highly capable pianist as well.