129: Dee Lucas Explains What Artists Get Wrong About Ownership

On this episode of The Jazz Flyte Podcast, I sit down with saxophonist Dee Lucas, and this conversation goes far beyond music. It is about identity, ownership, and the discipline it takes to build something that lasts.

We start at the beginning, where Dee shares how his first love was actually bass guitar before discovering the saxophone in college. What drew him in was not just the sound, but the voice of the instrument. That connection led him down a path shaped by the influence of George Howard and Grover Washington Jr., artists who didn’t just play music, they created a signature sound you could recognize in seconds.

Dee breaks down what makes the saxophone such a demanding instrument, from breath control to discipline, and why mastering it is more about consistency than talent. We also get into the ongoing conversation about what defines jazz, and why, at its core, it is all connected.

One of the most powerful parts of this conversation is Dee’s decision to build his own record label. He explains why ownership mattered to him from the very beginning, how he navigated the shift from physical CDs to streaming, and why he refuses to leave money or opportunity on the table. This is a real look at what it takes to be both an artist and an entrepreneur in today’s music industry.

We also talk about time management, creativity, and how he continues to evolve after more than a decade of projects. With over 11 releases and counting, Dee shares how he stays inspired, how he revisits past work, and why growth is not optional if you want longevity.

This episode is not just about jazz. It is about building something that reflects who you are and having the discipline to stand on it.

Connect with Dee: https://www.deelucas.com/