EP 65: From Patrol to Performance with Althea René

This week on Jazz Flyte Podcast, Darrell welcomes the fiercely talented Althea Rene—jazz flutist, author, and former deputy sheriff—who has blazed her own path in the music world. Born on Christmas Day in Detroit, Althea was inspired by her father, Dezie McCullers, a member of Motown's original Funk Brothers. Despite being told the flute wasn’t a “true jazz instrument,” Althea has carved her own space in jazz with an unmistakable style and a live-performance energy like no other. In this episode, Althea opens up about the challenges she’s faced as a woman in a male-dominated industry, the pushback she received on her choice of instrument, and how she’s worked to break stereotypes—insights she captures in her book Becoming Chocolate Barbie. She also talks about her nonprofit, Color and Song, through which she educates young artists on music, publishing, and copyrighting to protect their art. With new music set to release in 2025, Althea reflects on the joys of independent artistry, her love for live performance, and the way she channels her emotions through her music. This conversation delves into everything from the importance of self-advocacy and confidence to her transformative journey from deputy sheriff to jazz stage, inspiring listeners with every note.