Editor's Note: Delfeayo Marsalis has a unique insider's perspective on the contemporary jazz world. Born into the New Orleans family that has become a musical dynasty, Delfeayo got his start as a grade-schooler, helping brothers Branford and Wynton record demos. At 17 he debuted as a producer with father Ellis' Syndrome. Later, he attended the Berklee School of Music in Boston and earned a bachelor's degree in production and engineering while honing his trombone chops.

It was as ...