A Celebration of Oscar Treadwell

For many years, jazz radio show host and historian Oscar Treadwell provided insight on jazz and blues to Cincinnati and the world. “O.T.’s” smooth demeanor and fluid delivery of words resonated with all his listeners from his opening greeting to his memorable “Sweet Love” signoff. He not only gave us wonderful jazz & blues music from countless artists, he also educated us, and shared stories making us feel as if we were generously invited into his home for a cup of coffee.

In addition to his many listeners, Oscar was extremely recognized and respected by the musicians of the jazz community. In 1949, Charlie Parker recorded “An Oscar for Treadwell” with Dizzy Gillespie, Thelonious Monk, and Buddy Rich. The following year, fellow saxophonist Wardell Gray recorded “Treadin’ with Treadwell”. And several years later in 1955, “Oska T” was composed by Thelonious Monk.

For decades, O.T. has graced the airwaves of WNOP (1965), WGUC (1973 to 1995), and WVXU where he hosted “Jazz with O.T.” until retiring in 2001.

Oscar Treadwell passed away in April of 2006, and is still missed to this day. But his legacy lives on, and continues to grow. The Public Library of Cincinnati, the Cincinnati MacDowell Society, and the Blue Wisp have joined to give a very special gift to O.T.

On Friday December 18th, the Blue Wisp will host a CD Release Jazz with O.T./Christmas Party. The party starts at 5:00, and this is The Jazz Half "Event of the Month" for December. Oscar’s Radio Show catalog, available at the Main Library downtown, will receive a brand new cover design, along with a new CD index. This index will improve the ability to access information on the 170-plus musicians he’s featured on his show. A new CD will be released as well - Remembering O.T.: A Celebration of Oscar Treadwell will premier the same day. Produced by The Cincinnati MacDowell Society, this CD will only be available at the Public Library.

Also mark your calendar for Friday, December 12, where a preview of the new CD design will be unveiled on the first floor of the Main Library at noon. Cheers!

- jh