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Herbie Hancock, born on April 12, 1940, in Chicago, Illinois, is a legendary jazz pianist, composer, and bandleader. Hancock began playing piano at age seven and quickly showed prodigious talent. He performed a Mozart piano concerto with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra at age eleven. After studying at Grinnell College, he moved to New York City in the early 1960s, where his career took off.
1960s: Breakthrough and Miles Davis Quintet
Hancock's breakthrough came when he joined Miles Davis' Second Great Quintet in 1963, contributing to the development of jazz with albums like "E.S.P." (1965) and "Miles Smiles" (1967). During this period, Hancock also released his debut solo album, "Takin' Off" (1962), which included the hit "Watermelon Man."
1970s: Fusion and Funk
The 1970s saw Hancock pioneering jazz fusion and funk. He formed the Headhunters, releasing the seminal album "Head Hunters" (1973), featuring the hit "Chameleon." This album was one of the first jazz albums to go platinum and remains one of his most influential works.
Key Albums of the 1970s
"Head Hunters" (1973) A groundbreaking fusion of jazz, funk, and rock.
"Thrust" (1974) Continuing the fusion trend with tracks like "Actual Proof."
"Man-Child" (1975) Featuring a mix of complex rhythms and accessible grooves.
1980s: Electronic Innovations
In the 1980s, Hancock embraced electronic instruments and hip-hop influences. His album "Future Shock" (1983) featured the hit single "Rockit," which became a major MTV hit and won a Grammy for Best R&B Instrumental Performance. The accompanying music video, with its innovative use of robotics and visual effects, became iconic.
1990s and Beyond
Hancock continued to explore various musical styles and collaborations. His 1995 album "The New Standard" featured jazz interpretations of pop and rock songs. He also delved into world music with "Gershwin’s World" (1998), which won three Grammy Awards.
2000s: Continued Excellence
Hancock's 2007 album "River The Joni Letters," a tribute to Joni Mitchell, won the Grammy Award for Album of the Year, making him the second jazz artist to receive this honor. His work in the 2000s and 2010s continued to push musical boundaries.
Discography Highlights
Studio Albums~
"Takin' Off" (1962)
"Maiden Voyage" (1965)
"Head Hunters" (1973)
"Thrust" (1974)
"Future Shock" (1983)
"River The Joni Letters" (2007)
"The Imagine Project" (2010)
Grammy Awards
Hancock has won 14 Grammy Awards throughout his career.
Key Wins...
Album of the Year for "River The Joni Letters" (2007)
Best R&B Instrumental Performance for "Rockit" (1983)
Best Jazz Instrumental Album for "Gershwin's World" (1998)
Famous Songs and Compositions
"Watermelon Man"
"Cantaloupe Island"
"Maiden Voyage"
"Chameleon"
"Rockit"
Collaborations and Cover Versions
Hancock has collaborated with numerous artists, including
Miles Davis (Second Great Quintet)
Joni Mitchell ("River: The Joni Letters")
Tina Turner
John Mayer
His compositions have been covered by many artists, and his influence spans multiple genres.
Quotes
Music happens to be an art form that transcends language
On innovation
The spirit of jazz is the spirit of openness
Personal Life and Gossip
Hancock is known for his intellectual approach to music and spirituality, having practiced Buddhism since the 1970s. He is also a professor of music at UCLA, where he shares his vast knowledge with the next generation of musicians.
Legacy and Influence
Herbie Hancock's career, spanning over six decades, is marked by continuous innovation and a profound impact on jazz and beyond. From his early days with Miles Davis to his groundbreaking solo work, Hancock has consistently pushed musical boundaries. His legacy as a pioneering musician and his influence on multiple genres ensure his place as one of the greatest musicians of all time.
Songs: Chameleon, Rockit, Maiden Voyage