Breaking Boundaries: A Conversation with Jazz Phenom Jahari Stampley
Jahari Stampley
Grammy-Nominated Jazz Pianist
The world of modern jazz is evolving, and at the center of that evolution is Jahari Stampley.
In our latest podcast episode, we sat down with the man who has quickly become one of the most decorated musicians of his generation. From winning the 2023 Herbie Hancock Institute International Competition to his 2024 Grammy nomination and his most recent honor—the 2025 ASCAP Herb Alpert Composers Award—Jahari’s trajectory is nothing short of meteoric.
Whether you know him from his #1 iTunes debut album “Still Listening,” his appearance in the feature film Spinning Gold, or his performances at Carnegie Hall, Jahari’s sound is redefining the genre.
A "Late" Start with a Unique Perspective
One of the most fascinating aspects of Jahari’s story is that he didn’t touch a piano until he was 14 years old. In an industry where many virtuosos start at age three, Jahari views his "late" start as a superpower.
He shares that the later start allowed him to pursue music out of personal interest rather than external pressure. By the time he sat down at the keys, his curiosity was the primary driver, allowing him to bypass the burnout often felt by child prodigies and develop a sound that is authentically his.
Chicago Roots and the Sound of What A Time (2025)
A Chicago native, Jahari carries the city’s rich musical heritage in every note. His latest 2025 album, “What A Time,” is a masterclass in genre-bending, blending jazz, pop, and gospel.
The project features a massive lineup of talent, including:
Keyon Harrold
Derrick Hodge
D-Erania Stampley (Jahari’s mother and a Grammy-nominated multi-instrumentalist)
Collaborating with his mother has been a career highlight. Jahari spoke warmly about their shared heritage, noting that her influence and her own adventurous spirit (she recently earned her drone pilot's license!) keep him inspired to push boundaries.
Technology Meets Tradition: Piano Chronicles
Jahari isn't just innovating on stage; he’s changing how we learn music. He discussed the launch of his app, Piano Chronicles, a video game that combines piano notes with monster battles. Beyond the game, he has launched a comprehensive learning platform featuring over 400 video lessons, proving that jazz education can be as interactive as it is profound.
Staying Grounded in the Spotlight
Despite his accolades, Jahari’s definition of success remains refreshingly simple: honesty and relationships.
He explains that he balances commercial expectations by staying true to his artistic vision. He draws inspiration from historical artists who weren't appreciated in their time, reminding aspiring musicians that emotional connection to the music is more important than chasing fame.
Catch Jahari Stampley Live in Healdsburg!
If you want to experience the magic in person, the Jahari Stampley Family Trio will be performing at the Healdsburg Winter Jazz Festival.
When: Friday, January 30, 2026, at 7:00 PM
Where: Healdsburg, CA
What to Expect: Jahari will be debuting brand-new, unreleased music!
🎟️ Ticket Giveaway!
We have a very special giveaway for the Healdsburg Winter Jazz Festival! We are giving away tickets to see the "Good Vibes" show with Joel Ross on Feb.1.
How to enter: Follow us on Instagram at @pod_locally and keep an eye on our feed in the upcoming days for the official giveaway post.
Quick Hits with Jahari:
Guilty Pleasure Listen: Jaleel.
Dream Jam Session: A one-hour session with Prince or J.S. Bach.
Pre-show Ritual: Staying present and embracing the "zone" (a skill he honed while touring with Khruangbin).
What’s Next: New interviews with piano legends like Herbie Hancock and Hayato Sumino, and more genre-defying music.
For more information on Jahari’s tours and music, visit Jahari’s website.
Beer Review
After our conversation about a jazz musician’s life, one idea lingered—collaboration—and it felt fitting to pour a beer built on that same spirit: “Disciples of Foam,” a hoppy pilsner collaboration from Laughing Monk Brewing and Geisthaus Brewing. Known for doing classic styles right, these two Northern California breweries deliver a bright, bubbly, and crisp pilsner at 5.7% ABV that cuts nicely through winter’s heavier beers, using classic German hops Huell Melon and Saphir to bring light citrus brightness alongside grassy, malty notes. It pours with a beautiful foamy head and drinks effortlessly—an ideal pairing for sunshine, snacks, and the shared creativity that comes from great collaborators coming together.
