ON THIS DAY: HAPPY 75TH, BOBBY MCFERRIN!

With an operatic baritone father and a voice teacher mother, it was almost destined that Bobby McFerrin would become a singer. To develop his unique vocal style, he chose not to listen to other singers, instead drawing inspiration from pianist Keith Jarrett’s solo improvisations. This unconventional path led to his mastery of vocal techniques such as yodeling, scat singing, polyphonic overtone singing, and improvisational vocal percussion. After McFerrin’s vocal debut in 1977, a breakthrough performance at the 1980 Playboy Jazz Festival launched an extraordinary career, which led to the quirky hit single "Don't Worry, Be Happy", stunning collaborations with music legends across genres, and impressive performances as a classical conductor. Despite living with Parkinson's disease, McFerrin continues to touch the hearts of many, sharing the joy of singing with his numerous fans on the concert stage. March 11 marks Bobby McFerrin’s 75th birthday, which Stingray DJAZZ celebrates with a special broadcast of the vocal wizard’s breathtaking 1985 solo performance at Estival Jazz Lugano. Happy 75th, Mr. McFerrin!