HERBIE HANCOCK

Herbie Hancock is one of the world's most prolific jazz performers. The prodigy pianist has amazed audiences worldwide with his incredible talent, technique and ability to cross stylistic boundaries. An innovative musician who refuses to be categorized. A true icon of modern music and one of the century's greatest visionaries. A ingenious man who has collaborated with some of the finest jazz musicians from the past forty years. In addition, he has inspired countless musicians to pursue their creative passions.

Herbie Hancock played a two-week residence at the Blue Note over the Christmas and New Years period of 2003 - 2004. The Blue Note is the most prestigious jazz and blues venue in New York City. Their performance calender is continuously scheduled with legendary musicians who have achieved worldwide recognition. Therefore, it seems too easy for a musician to abuse the notoriety they've acquired throughout their career. Herbie Hancock's New Years Day performance offered some brief examples. He began by rudely introducing the fellow musicians he'd be working with that evening. His blunt comments seemed unprofessional and immature. Some members of the audience were bemused, while others just laughed nervously. His self-indulgent behaviour lost some respect from the audience that had paid a premium price to see him perform. In addition, Herbie Hancock could have played a wide selection from his extensive music portfolio. Instead, he decided to perform two extended suites [Butterfly & Dolphin Dance] which lasted just over an hour altogether. To conclude the evening's performance, he denied the audience any hope of an encore. Just re-introduced his band-mates, said thanks to the crowd and returned backstage to his dressing room. A disappointing live performance which appeared pretentious, prolonged and somewhat pointless.

Herbie Hancock has over thirty album releases on various record labels between the years 1962 - 2001. There are dozens of compilations that have been issued, mainly released by Columbia Records. However, on "
The Herbie Hancock Box" available from Sony Music, you'll find favourites: Rockit, Chameleon and Watermelon Man.


Photo Credit: HerbieHancock.com

Live Review:
January 1, 2004 New York (NY),
Blue Note.

Selected Discography
ARTIST: Herbie Hancock
ALBUM
: Best Of Herbie Hancock - The Blue Note Years
LABEL: Blue Note Records
RELEASED: November 1, 1988
DURATION
: 9 Tracks
ARTIST: Herbie Hancock
ALBUM
: The Herbie Hancock Box
LABEL: Sony Music
RELEASED: October 1, 2002
DURATION
: 34 Tracks