Jazz DJ Phil Schaap Moves Archive to Nashville

Phil Schaap, a renowned jazz DJ and historian, has relocated his extensive collection of jazz recordings and interviews from his childhood home in Queens to Vanderbilt University in Nashville. Known for his encyclopedic knowledge of jazz, Schaap's home was described by neighbors as resembling a storage unit filled with record albums. After decades of curating this vast archive, Schaap's materials were transported in two eighteen-wheelers and a van to their new home. The Phil Schaap Jazz Collection, now housed at Vanderbilt, represents a significant contribution to the preservation of jazz history. This collection not only includes recorded interviews but also a wealth of other materials that document the evolution of jazz music. Schaap's work has been instrumental in educating audiences about the genre, and his collection is expected to serve as a valuable resource for researchers, students, and jazz enthusiasts alike. Schaap's move marks a new chapter in his life and career, as he transitions from his long-standing role in New York City to a new environment in Nashville. The relocation of his collection underscores the importance of preserving cultural heritage and highlights the ongoing relevance of jazz in American music history. As the collection finds its new home, it is anticipated that it will inspire future generations to explore and appreciate the rich tapestry of jazz, ensuring that Schaap's legacy as a passionate advocate for the genre continues to thrive.