SpiritYouAll | Bobby McFerrin | Talks at Google

TL;DR

Bobby McFerrin discusses his love for music, his new album, and his passion for vocal improvisation.

Transcript

MALE SPEAKER: Everyone please welcome to the stage a man who, for decades, has redefined the boundaries of music and pushed the limits of the human voice. Here to perform from his new album, "Spirityouall," 10 time Grammy Award winner Bobby McFerrin. [APPLAUSE] [MUSIC - BOBBY MCFERRIN, "EVERYTIME"] [APPLAUSE] BOBBY MCFERRIN: Thank you. We are going... Read More

Key Insights

• 🐝 Bobby McFerrin's vocal improvisation skills were honed through years of dedicated practice and experimentation.
• 😑 He views vocal effects and auto-tune as unnecessary in achieving true musical talent and expression.
• 🧑‍🏭 McFerrin values collaboration and has worked with his children, who also have their own successful careers in music and acting.
• 🎼 He draws inspiration from his faith and diverse musical genres, including jazz and bluegrass.

Questions & Answers

Q: How did Bobby McFerrin develop his incredible vocal improvisation skills?

McFerrin credits his six years of dedicated practice and experimentation with singing notes, character, color, and language for his mastery of vocal improvisation.

Q: Has Bobby McFerrin ever sung "Don't Worry Be Happy" since its release in 1988?

No, McFerrin has not performed the song in its entirety in over 20 years. However, he is thrilled to see people of all ages and musical genres continue to enjoy and cover the song.

Q: What is Bobby McFerrin's opinion on vocal effects and auto-tune in music?

McFerrin believes that vocal effects and auto-tune are often used as a crutch for singers who are not talented. He prefers to sing organically and explore different sounds without relying on artificial manipulation.

Q: How does Bobby McFerrin approach collaboration with other musicians, including his own children?

McFerrin is open to collaborating with other musicians and has worked with his daughter, a singer, and his son, a musician. He appreciates the unique talents they bring and enjoys the creative process of working together.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Bobby McFerrin performs songs from his new album, "Spirityouall," showcasing his unique vocal improvisation skills.

• He pays tribute to his father, who was the first African American to sign with the Metropolitan Opera, and shares childhood memories.

• McFerrin discusses his faith, his love for genres like bluegrass and jazz, and his opinions on vocal effects in music.