One of my all-time favorite musicians. Saw him aeons ago with free tickets (roomie was a student there), a show on Vanderbilt's campus... he was touring with the Elektric Band. That show changed my life. I'll be running high volume on the hi-fi this evening whilst M goes bowling. I can pick his tone out just as easy as Bill Evans. Dang.
"The social media announcement of his death included words from Corea himself: "I want to thank all of those along my journey who have helped keep the music fires burning bright. It is my hope that those who have an inkling to play, write, perform or otherwise, do so. If not for yourself then for the rest of us. It's not only that the world needs more artists, it's also just a lot of fun.
And to my amazing musician friends who have been like family to me as long as I've known you: It has been a blessing and an honor learning from and playing with all of you. My mission has always been to bring the joy of creating anywhere I could, and to have done so with all the artists that I admire so dearly — this has been the richness of my life."
Much of his keyboarding was really over my head and too quick and abstract for me, especially the Elektric Band. I thought his Return to Forever album notes were especially trippy. I still enjoy his concert album with Herbie Hancock, just the two of them on traditional pianos playing smoothly and effortlessly. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i1mDcpXikn4
20 years ago . . . I sat there in the Blue Note night after night, with my oldest son, as he recreated his past groups . . . a different group each night.
Some of the most amazing talent I ever saw.
His contributions to music are nothing short of legendary.
It was interesting to me to read liner notes. Chick was a Scientologist, John, a Christian, not sure about Weckl. All I know is they were flat astounding together.
I knew I had some of his stuff, decided to dig through my vinyl. Sure enough, 3 albums. Return to Forever Where Have I Known You Before My Spanish Heart
Tried to listen on my retro record player but it was dragging so I put Commander Cody and his Lost Planet Airmen “Lost in the Ozone Again” to loosen the platter and belt. Sure having fun listening to the Commander, I’ll put Chick on later this evening. <edit> Hot Rod Lincoln just played.
Almost through the last, My Spanish Heart. First two were too rambling, no melody and way too much tremolo/vibrato and phase shifter. typical ‘70s progressive.
Spanish Heart is reminiscent of Jean-Luc Ponty and Al Di Meola. Very pleasant Beat the shit outta the news.