In the sign of the new Americana, sophisticated soul and jazz and the transcendental rhythms of cumbia

Ela Žafran, young jazz singer, has declared, “My soul is jazz.” This statement, made during her participation in the Poletno branje literary program, highlights her deep connection to the genre. The event took place on September 1, 2026, at 6:39 PM, as part of a broader initiative to explore the lives and works of global musical icons from the 20th century through autobiographies and biographies. The segment was hosted by Nina Cijan, with guest appearances from musicians and writers, including Alen Steržaj and Jernej Dirnbek, who are both members of prominent Slovenian bands, Big Foot Mama and Mi2 respectively. The Poletno branje episode featured a curated selection of literary works that trace the evolution of music through personal narratives. These include biographies and autobiographies of legendary figures such as Louis Armstrong, Benny Goodman, George Gershwin, Bing Crosby, Duke Ellington, Dizzy Gillespie, Billie Holiday, and others. The inclusion of these texts underscores the cultural significance of jazz and its enduring influence on global music history. Notably, several of these works were translated into Slovenian, making them accessible to local audiences. Among the highlighted authors were Ray Charles and Miles Davis, whose memoirs provide insight into their creative processes and personal journeys within the jazz world. The program also touched upon the broader context of music biography, emphasizing how certain genres have produced fewer written accounts than others. While rock and pop have been extensively documented through autobiographies, punk music, despite its rebellious nature, has had fewer published works. However, notable exceptions exist, such as Patti Smith’s Just Kids, Steve Jones’ Lonely Boy: Tales from a Sex Pistol, and John Lydon’s Rotten: No Irish, No Blacks, No Dogs. These books offer raw, unfiltered perspectives on the origins and ethos of the punk movement. In Slovenia, the tradition of music biography is still developing. While there are some publications, they remain relatively obscure. One example is the anthology Pankrti, Teksti in fotografska retrospektivna publikacija N'č se ne premakne te iste legendarne skupine, which explores the legacy of legendary bands. Another is Zamenite m, an anthology of Slovenian punk poetry. These works reflect the growing interest in documenting the country's alternative music scene, though they have yet to gain widespread recognition. The discussion extended beyond Western music traditions to include the contributions of artists like Dolly Parton, whose life and career exemplify the intersection of artistry and resilience. Born in 1946 in East Tennessee, Parton grew up in poverty, often overlooked for her talent due to her appearance and regional roots. Despite early challenges, she rose to prominence through her songwriting and performances, eventually becoming one of the most successful entertainers in American history. Her work transcended genres, encompassing country, pop, and theater, while her philanthropy and business ventures further solidified her legacy. Parton’s personal life also played a role in shaping her public image. She married Carl Dean in 1966, and their marriage lasted nearly six decades until his death in 2025. Their relationship, marked by stability and mutual respect, contributed to her ability to focus on her career. Though they did not have children together, Parton remained close to her nieces and nephews, maintaining a strong family bond. Her legacy extends beyond entertainment. In 1995, she founded the Imagination Library, providing free books to children worldwide. Over 304 million books have been distributed since its inception, supporting literacy initiatives globally. Additionally, she has contributed to disaster relief efforts, medical research, and educational programs, demonstrating her commitment to community service. Through her music, writing, and activism, Dolly Parton has left an indelible mark on popular culture. Her journey, from a poor Appalachian girl to a global icon, illustrates the power of perseverance and creativity. As the Poletno branje episode concluded, it became clear that the exploration of musical biographies serves not only to honor individual achievements but also to inspire future generations.