EPISODE 136 - James Burton III

Today, we’re joined by James Burton III, a powerhouse trombonist and dedicated educator who has shaped the jazz scene both on and off the stage. A former pre-med student turned Juilliard faculty member, James’ journey took a sharp turn at 14 when he first heard John Coltrane’s Blue Train—a moment that set him on a lifelong path in jazz.

He’s worked with icons like Jackie McLean, Ron Carter & Christian McBride, performed on some of the world’s biggest stages, and now helps mentor the next generation of jazz musicians at Juilliard. But beyond the music, James is full of surprises—he was recruited to play Division I football, has a soft spot for bad ’80s pop, and once threw his trombone slide off mid-performance at Dizzy’s Club.