The Talk About Las Vegas Podcast

This week on “Talk About Las Vegas,” Ira sits down with Earl Turner—singer, song-writer, musician, dancer, and master storyteller ahead of his holiday show (joined by Elisa Fiorillo and Ken Young), “Another Very Soulful Christmas” lighting up Myron’s at The Smith Center, December 17–18.
In this episode, Earl reflects on a life shaped by music—from picking up the guitar at age 10 to learning a lesson (involving music) while preparing to perform in New Orleans. He opens up about what keeps the spark alive on stage, why music is such a powerful and personal art form, and how performers truly serve their audiences—and get just as much back in return.
Earl shares unforgettable moments, including the first time he saw James Brown and Diana Ross, and discusses his commanding on-stage persona that demands attention—while embracing a quieter, more grounded life offstage. He talks about the joy of both downtime and performance, the blessing of playing for audiences who genuinely want to be there, and how that energy fuels his work.
The conversation also dives into how “Another Very Soulful Christmas” came together—his first holiday show was in 2022—how he selects songs that inspire and lift spirits, why he chose Elisa Fiorillo and Ken Young as collaborators, and why he’s adding “Please Come Home for Christmas” to this year’s set. Earl also shares insights about fans who travel from out of town to see the show, priceless advice from Sammy Davis Jr., and the difference between inspiration and the hard work that turns it into something magical.
It’s a heartfelt, soulful, and joyful conversation—perfectly timed for the holiday season.
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Talking With Chuck Redd – December 8, 2025

This week on “Talk About Las Vegas With Ira”, Ira welcomes world-renowned vibraphonist and drummer Chuck Redd, bringing his acclaimed holiday show, “A Redd Christmas,” to Vic’s Las Vegas December 12-13.
Chuck shares remarkable stories from a life surrounded by jazz legends—including the great Red Norvo, who once had dinner at Chuck’s home and even gave him a private lesson. He reflects on his musical relationship with Barney Kessel, and the unforgettable lesson that who you are as a person is directly mirrored in your music. Chuck also talks about the influence of Milt Jackson, his work with Monty Alexander, Shelly Manne, Buddy Rich, and Bill Evans, and why he finds inspiration from younger musicians.
Other highlights include traveling secrets picked up over decades on the road, his daily practice rituals, and insights into why most jazz musicians remain grounded and humble—even amidst remarkable careers. Chuck also explains why part of being a great musician is being personable, thoughtful and always considering the audience—without pan-dering.
Plus, Chuck tells us why “A Redd Christmas” at Vic’s has become a beloved Las Vegas tradition, what audiences can expect (from holiday classics to mainstream jazz, blues, be-bop, and bossa nova), details of his brand-new Christmas album, featuring his brother Robert on piano, and the making of his original title track.
He also talks about what makes performing in Las Vegas uniquely meaningful—because the city reflects the history of American entertainment, including echoes of Frank Sinatra.
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Talking With Grammy® Nominated Singer/Songwriter Clint Holmes– December 1, 2025

(Photo By Jerry Metellus)

This week on “Talk About Las Vegas With Ira,” Ira welcomes Grammy-nominated singer and songwriter Clint Holmes, whose new single “A Good Man Now” drops December 6, the same week he brings “Holmes For The Holidays” to Myron’s Cabaret Jazz.

Clint opens up about the energy that fuels his performances (and why he still dislikes the travel), what it means to be fully himself on stage, and why audiences feel at ease with him almost instantly. He shares how preparation frees him creatively, how his long-held song title and idea (an inspiration he drew from artist Seward Johnson and his wife Ce-celia), “A Good Man Now,” sparked his collaboration with Frankie Moreno, and why the song carries a deeply redemptive spirit.

He also talks about running every idea past his wife—the multitalented Kelly Clinton, re-flects on holiday traditions at The Smith Center, memorable advice from Harry Belafonte and Roberta Flack, and the tip from Larry Moss (his acting coach) that continues to guide him: “Give them what they want, but surprise them.”

From multi-generational audiences to his eight-show-a-year residency, a forthcoming documentary, his memoir in progress, and the one-man show he’s developing, Clint shares how every project is anchored by a simple truth: “At some point I’m going to have to walk on stage in front of people and do a show.”
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Talking With Melisa McChesney– November 24, 2025

This week, Ira spoke with Melisa McChesney, newly appointed Director of Lifelong Learning at the Neon Museum.

In this episode of “Talk About Las Vegas With Ira,” Melisa shares her journey from a museum-obsessed 19-year-old to a seasoned educator shaping how Las Vegas learns its own history. She talks about what drew her to the Ne-on Museum, its uniquely Vegas stories, and how she’s building programs that spark cu-riosity for everyone—from K-12 students and families to older adults exploring “creative aging.”
Melisa reveals how the museum goes beyond its iconic signs, preserving menus, keychains, and decks of cards that capture the city’s cultural DNA. She discusses partnerships with the school district, the growing demand for space, the power of oral histories, and why fun is essential to every learning experience.

Her goal? To create opportunities for people of all ages to connect through the art, design, and history that make Las Vegas truly one of a kind.
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