Podcast: Tony Castañeda’s life in Latin jazz

The longtime Madison musician discusses his projects past and present.

Tony Castañeda is a Madison-based percussionist, a radio host, an advocate for social justice who’s worked in youth counseling and housing issues, and just generally a guy with a big personality and a decades-long history here in Madison. His Tony Castañeda Latin Jazz Band, which plays frequently around town, got started more than 20 years ago as Castañeda was winding down his earlier band, Olmeca, which blended elements of Chicano music, psychedelic rock, and jazz fusion. He’ll be playing with both outfits on Saturday, September 8 at the Harmony Bar. Ahead of that, Castañeda sat down to discuss his musical upbringing in Racine and how his current focus on traditional Afro-Latin jazz developed.

Give the conversation a listen here, or subscribe to the Tone Madison podcast on Apple Podcasts. If you like what you’re hearing, please leave us a review on Apple Podcasts and consider supporting us financially with a one-time or recurring donation.