Bobby McFerrin

Biography

Robert Keith McFerrin Jr. (born March 11, 1950) is an American jazz vocalist. He is known for his vocal techniques, such as singing fluidly but with quick and considerable jumps in pitch—for example, sustaining a melody while also rapidly alternating with arpeggios and harmonies—as well as scat singing, polyphonic overtone singing, and improvisational vocal percussion. He is widely known for performing and recording regularly as an unaccompanied solo vocal artist. He has frequently collaborated with other artists from both the jazz and classical scenes. McFerrin's song "Don't Worry, Be Happy" was a No. 1 U.S. pop hit in 1988 and won Song of the Year and Record of the Year honors at the 1989 Grammy Awards. McFerrin has also worked in collaboration with instrumentalists, including pianists Chick Corea, Herbie Hancock, and Joe Zawinul, drummer Tony Williams, and cellist Yo-Yo Ma. He is the father of musicians Taylor McFerrin and Madison McFerrin.

Known For

Saturday Night Live

as Self - Musical Guest

Son of the Pink Panther

as Self (uncredited)

Alive Inside

The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson

as Self

The Music of Strangers: Yo-Yo Ma and the Silk Road Ensemble

as Self

Great Performances

as Self - Host

The Jim Henson Hour

as Himself

The Wizard of Oz on Ice

as Host / The Wizard of Oz

Bobby McFerrin - Live in Montreal

as Himself

Bobby McFerrin & Chick Corea Duet - Jazz A Vienne

as Himself