Herbie Hancock: Possibilities

(Paperback)

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Now in paperback, this reflective and invaluable memoir tells the story of Hancock's incredible success as a musician, from his beginnings as a child prodigy to his work with artists like Miles Davis and Stevie Wonder. In Herbie Hancock: Possibilities the legendary jazz musician and composer reflects on a thriving career that has spanned seven decades, from his beginnings as a child prodigy to his work in Miles Davis' second great quintet; from his innovations as the leader of his own sextet to his collaborations with everyone from Wayne Shorter to Joni Mitchell.

Reviews

Herbie Hancock has led a fascinating life. And the story of that life makes a fascinating book.Peter Keepnews,The New York Times Book Review(Editors Choice)

Few jazz biographies are perfect, though HancocksPossibilitiescome closer than some. Kevin Whitehead,Fresh Air

[Possibilitiesis] very effective at its paramount task: getting the reader to dig into the catalog of this restless jazz genius with newly edified ears.The Boston Globe

Hancock, a Buddhist, writes about his spiritual journey inPossibilitiesbut isnt preachy about his its effect on his life, relationships, music and philosophy. His stories of famous jazz artists are done with reverence and a sense of reporting, for the record, many artists who didnt achieve as much fame as others but should be given their equal artistic due.New York Journal of Books

Revelations come thick and fast in this terrific page-turner. Honest, self-effacing, and packed with good storiesPossibilitiespresents an intimate self-portrait of one of popular musics most influential and affable keyboardists. Mojo Magazine

Possibilitiesis a vividly written reflection on his own lifeand a way of living. Milwaukee Shepherd Express

A mind blowing whos who of jazz music . . . Amazing work here for musician and fan alike. Ebony.com

As the pianist relates his outr journey toward redemption, it becomes clear that spirituality and love have played overarching roles in his continued success and evolution. Alibi

Melodically weaving the notes of his personal life around his exploration of numerous music genres from classical and R&B to funk and hip-hop, renowned pianist Hancock elegantly composes a tuneful sound track of his life in music. Publishers Weekly(Starred Review)

A warm, inspiring book by a man who seems to have little ego despite a career spent near the peak of his art. Recommended reading for jazz aficionados. KirkusReviews

He has remained true to his art and his (Buddhist) poise during turbulent times, and his description of his upbringing and encounters with often turbulent individuals (not least of them Davis) provides a unique slant on Americas musical scene. Booklist

Brilliant . . . reveals the method behind this remarkable jazz performer . . . a testament to a man who faced in life what seemed impossible and made it possible.Library Journal

This book is many treasures. You have to read it to understand Herbie Hancock, to read and understand Mr. Hancock explaining how he achieved things. It is also a great treasure to make contact. The contact is you and Herbie telling you about himself. You are receiving the information and understandings of himself to you. He is very, very clear. Thank you, Herbie, because so many geniuses like yourself in the arts have trouble defining themselves and what they do. Bill Cosby

Herbie and I have been brothers since before electricity! One of my favorite things about Herbie is that both he and I aim to de-categorize music; we dont think of music in terms of genres or rules, we both live outside the box and love good music, no matter the genre. If you like piano, or jazz, or music, or great stories, or life itself, you will love this book. Herbie Hancock has been electrifying audiences for decades, and now hes about to do it to readers, too. Quincy Jones

Herbie Hancocks new book,Possibilities, elevates, transforms, and illumines consciousness. This wealth of insight opens winder the space of possibilities with raw honesty, courage, and curiosity. It takes us into a place of brilliant alchemy of Gods life, music, and humor. Genius IS as genius does. Carlos Santana

Herbie Hancock is one of the greats. His book is a fascinating account of his time in the music business. From Miles Davis to Paul Simon and beyond, Herbies stories are an insightful delight for all of us.Paul McCartney

Author Bio

Herbie Hancock has won fourteen Grammy Awards, as well as an Academy Award for the score ofRound Midnight. Hancock's Head Hunters is the second-bestselling jazz album of all time. In 2011 he was named as a UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador, in 2013 he was a recipient of the Kennedy Center Honors, and in 2014 he was the first jazz musician to deliver the prestigious Norton Lectures at Harvard University.