Spontaneous Inventions - Bobby McFerrin (1986)

Ideated from: a (final) Black History Month reminder that black artists largely built the modern world of music

For lots of people, all they know about McFerrin is Don’t Worry Be Happy, the gigantic novelty hit that nobody can get out of their head. But aside from that, McFerrin is a truly mind-blowing performer. His incredible vocal range is uncommon, but being able to switch between registers from note to note to layer bass and harmony parts on top, all while still carrying a melody and beating out a rhythm on his chest, is like nothing else you’ve ever heard.

This date was recorded in Hollywood in front of a very polite audience that keeps it quiet enough to hear all the details as McFerrin works.

You get Herbie Hancock joining in on piano, Wayne Shorter on sax on a different track, and a “duet” with Robin Williams–who gets by more on the sheer force of his personality than any real singing ability.

It’s a masterful showcase for a unique creative force.