I experienced my most inspiring concert Saturday night at the Cabot with Herb Alpert and his wife, singer Lani Hall. Behind the five-piece ensemble were screens displaying photographs and films from both of their careers and images of his paintings acting as backdrops.
I've known his music all of my life but seeing this segment opened my eyes to the wonderful world he's created as a musical artist, trumpeter, painter, sculptor, composer, record-company businessman and philanthropist while remaining kind, humble and generous. 100% of the tours' proceeds go to the Louis Armstrong Foundation.
Between songs and medleys, he spoke about his life and what it means to be an artist and finding your own voice and way in the world.
• Tijuana Taxi, Hollywood Palace, 1966
• Spanish Flea, 1965
• A Taste of Honey, The Ed Sullivan Show, 1965
• BBC tv special, 1967
• Tremendous documentary
• Check out Alpert's Vibrato Jazz Club in LA
Clark's Gum used Mexican Shuffle in their series of commercials.
Mexican Shuffle, Herb Alpert and the Tijuana Brass, 1964
In the clip above, Alpert plays along to a video at The Cabot Theater.
And did I mention that he is 88 years old? Keep enjoying life, Herb.
The Lonely Bull, Herb Alpert and the Tijuana Brass, 1962
This Guy's In Love With You, Herb Alpert, 1968
