Ben Sidran, born in Chicago and raised in Racine, is a multifaceted jazz musician, producer, and author who has been a central figure in Madison’s music scene since the 1970s. A former member of the Steve Miller Band, he co-wrote “Space Cowboy” and has collaborated with artists like Mose Allison and Van Morrison. Sidran has released over 35 solo albums and hosted NPR’s “Jazz Alive.” His writings, including “Black Talk” and “There Was a Fire,” explore music’s cultural dimensions. Sidran’s contributions have significantly enriched Madison’s cultural landscape.