Herbie Hancock

Herbie Hancock

Introduction

Herbie Hancock was one of the earliest musicians to blend funk-rock rhythmic patterns in jazz (McCurdy, 2004). A master of his art, Hancock is one of the most influential jazz artists of his time, a child prodigy who is skilled in the piano and original in his approach to jazz. An architect of the “post bop” sound, making melodic and smooth music, Hancock's songs contain elements of both soul and funk jazz. Promise of the Sun is one of his most delightful jazz melodies - blooming with his creative genius and mastery over the piano and expert composition skills. It has an overwhelming effect on its listeners, not unmingled with the smooth, electrifying rhythm that the jazz genre graciously offers to its enthusiasts.

Discussion

Jazz Styles

Jazz was always more “free” than other genres of music (Kirgiss, 2004). Ragtime is the earliest styles of jazz - incorporating African dance rhythms in enthusiastic and vitalizing compositions. In the 1900's, Classic jazz surfaced in New Orleans. Major instruments employed in Classic jazz are those used in modern jazz, or fusion jazz styles. These include the famous saxophone, known for its jazzy sound, the clarinet, cornet, tuba, guitar, drums, banjo, and the mellow bass. Occasionally, Classic jazz compositions included a piano. Hot Jazz comprised improvised solos, unique melodic structure, and the ideal “hot” climax. Guitar, bass, banjo, or drum beats typically supported the crescendo of the “hot” climax. The Chicago style provided room for growth of the genre as well as musicians who were now experimenting with the sounds of jazz. The arrangements in the Chicago Style were inventive and included a smoothness of harmonic rhythms that illustrated the high level of skill and ability of the players. In the thirties, the Swing style developed, derived from Classic jazz. Swing's ability to instantly connect with its audience depended on its dance music. Even though the sound produced was collective in terms of harmony, individual performers of the Swing jazz style tended to show off their personal skills with complex and impressive solos on each instrument in the melody. Kansas City Style was the mecca of the late thirties, providing soulful and Bluesy sounds for small time ensembles. Gypsy Jazz is a unique blend of Swing jazz and French dance hall “musette”. It has a smooth and seductive feel, with relaxed harmonies.

Bebop sought harmonic improvisation as opposed to previous jazz style evolutions that focused on ...