Singer Bobby McFerrin (Wikipedia (cc))
You may know him best as the voice behind the song, "Don't Worry, Be Happy," but Bobby McFerrin comes from a line of history-making artists. Robert McFerrin, Sr. was the first black man to sing at the Metropolitan Opera, and he sang the role of Porgy for Sidney Poitier in the the film version of "Porgy and Bess." Bobby McFerrin will appear in a special tribute to his father on March 5th, 2009 in New York's Schomberg Center. Bobby stopped by our studios to talk a bit about the legacy of his father, who has a connection to Takeaway host Celeste Headlee.
The first time Robert McFerrin, Sr. appeared on the New York City Opera stage, he was performing in an opera that Celeste's grandfather, William Grant Still, scored. Celeste and Bobby talk about race and culture then and now, and how important family can be in shaping your career.
Listen to Bobby McFerrin's song "Wailers" from his new album VOCAbuLarieS.
VOCAbuLarieS is out April 6th and available for preorder on Amazon.
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God, his speaking voice is like a pool full of hot chocolate... He's a character. Long live Mr. McFerrin!
Mr. McFerrin has been one of my favorites for years. You will hear his music presented by choirs in the coming years. Thank you for featuring this music phenom who is a definite one of a kind performer wearing many successful hats.
Wow. Wonderful Bobby McFerrin interview a few minutes ago. Celeste H., you did a beautiful job. Brought tears to my eyes re McF. family history -- and your voice slid so warmly into my ears. Thank you, thank you. I've been too quick to judge The TakeAway as news on speed.