Jazz/Blues
Bobby McFerrin
Vocal virtuoso Bobby McFerrin ranks among the most distinctive and original singers in contemporary music, equally adept in jazz, pop and classical settings. Bobby made his debut in 1977. A performance at the 1981 Kool Jazz Festival led to a contract with Elektra, and the following year, McFerrin issued his self-titled debut LP. With 1984's The Voice, he made jazz history, recording the first-ever solo vocal album to be released on a major label. Spontaneous Inventions followed in 1985. McFerrin also earned mainstream exposure through his unique performance of the theme song to the television hit The Cosby Show . With 1988's Simple Pleasures, he scored a chart-topping pop smash with "Don't Worry, Be Happy." With 1992's Hush, McFerrin teamed up with acclaimed cellist Yo-Yo Ma; the record remained on the Classical Crossover charts for over two years. The jazz release Play, a collaboration with pianist Chick Corea, appeared in 1992 as well. McFerrin returned in 1995 with Paper Music, a collection of interpretations of works by Mozart, Bach and Tchaikovsky. He then recorded a collaborative album of classical and jazz standards in 2001. It teamed him with such esteemed musicians as Herbie Hancock, Yo-Yo Ma, and the Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra. In 2013, he released spirityouall. Bobby McFerrin continues perform all over the globe.