EP 100: The One Shift That Could Elevate Your Music Career

On this episode of The Jazz Flyte Podcast, I take a virtual flight to London to sit down with keyboardist, composer, and producer Oli Silk — one of the most celebrated figures in contemporary jazz and often dubbed the UK’s Smooth Jazz Ambassador.

Oli’s story starts with the jazz-funk duo Sugar & Silk, which led to a solo career packed with Billboard hits — including the iconic Chill or Be Chilled, which stayed on the Smooth Jazz charts for over a year.
We dive into how smooth jazz “chose him,” his love for sax players, and how the UK’s scene shaped his sound. From influences like The Crusaders, Joe Sample, and George Duke to collaborations with Gerald Albright and Peter White, Oli shares how his sound evolved over time.

He gets real about songwriting — admitting he has more unfinished grooves than completed tracks — and what it really takes to bring a hook to life. You’ll hear the backstory behind songs like New Bounce (with Vincent Ingala) and how even ironing boards double as rehearsal tools while on tour.

As a father of two, Oli also reflects on balancing family, touring, and remote producing for artists around the world. We explore the shift from full albums to EPs, the modern jazz landscape, and the power of staying disciplined — with or without a keytar.

Whether you're a jazz enthusiast, producer, or someone chasing their creative rhythm, this episode is packed with inspiration and behind-the-keys wisdom.

Connect with Oli: https://www.instagram.com/olisilkmusic/?hl=en