One Jazz welcomes the second series of I AM WARRIOR, a co-production with the world-renowned talent development organisation and charity Tomorrow’s Warriors, in partnership with Jazz FM.
The series introduces listeners to three of today’s most exciting emerging artists from the Tomorrow’s Warriors programme. It reinforces the broadcasters’ shared commitment to championing the next generation of UK jazz talent by giving them a national broadcast platform.
Across six episodes, I AM WARRIOR spotlights:
- Emily Tran – pianist and composer
- Kianja – singer-songwriter
- Christ-Stéphane Boizi – trombonist and composer
In each episode, one artist blends personal storytelling with music from the classic artists who shaped their sound. These influences sit alongside the artist’s own tracks, as well as music from Tomorrow’s Warriors alumni and fellow contemporaries across the current UK jazz scene.
The series airs over six weeks on both One Jazz and Jazz FM.
The first episode, hosted by Christ-Stéphane Boizi, aired on One Jazz on Sunday 1 February and explores his love for jazz and blues from America’s Deep South.
The remaining episodes will air on Sundays at 3pm UK (and on ‘Listen Again’) on:
- 8 February
- 15 February
- 22 February
- 1 March
- 8 March
Christ-Stéphane added: “Having the opportunity to dig into new music that I haven’t checked out before — it’s going to be a super humbling experience. Can’t wait to check out some killing music.”
On being part of the series, Emily Tran said “I’m excited to dig through records of great pianists and try to cherry-pick a few that have been important in my development as a composer and pianist. I’m also excited to share these songs with listeners and talk about what made me love them.”
Commenting on becoming a radio host, Kianja said: “I joined this series to stretch myself creatively and learn a new skill. I’m excited to revisit the music that raised me, to dig back into my personal archives, and to experience radio in a deeper and more intentional way.”
Janine Irons OBE, Co-founder and CEO of Tomorrow’s Warriors, said, “I AM WARRIOR is a powerful reflection of what Tomorrow’s Warriors has always stood for – giving young artists the space, support and confidence to tell their own stories in their own voices. Emily Tran, Kianja and Christ-Stéphane Boizi represent the depth, diversity and creative brilliance of the current UK jazz scene, and it will be inspiring to hear them share their journeys and influences. Working once again with our friends at Jazz FM and One Jazz allows these artists to be heard on a national platform, and that visibility is vital for the future of this music.”
Jez Nelson MBE, co-founder of One Jazz and trustee of Tomorrow’s Warriors says, “One Jazz is all about showcasing jazz and jazz artists from the world over. Tomorrow’s Warriors represents the very best of young, emerging jazz talent and we’re buzzing to have I AM WARRIOR returning for a second year on the network, it’s brilliant to be working with Jazz FM again on this important project. Emily Tran, Kianja and Christ-Stéphane Boizi are exciting additions to our growing roster of global jazz hosts”
Nick Pitts, Content Director of Jazz FM and Magic Classical said: “Working with our friends at Tomorrow’s Warriors and One Jazz for a second time on this really important project provides a real opportunity to expose our audience to these new amazing talents, and in turn give them a chance to share their influences through their own voice. Their eclectic musical choices never fail to surprise and amaze!”