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Herbie Hancock at Stern Grove Festival: August 2024

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    Scott Lingner
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Herbie Hancock at Stern Grove Festival: August 2024

Herbie Hancock performing at Stern Grove Festival in 2024
Herbie Hancock performing at Stern Grove Festival in 2024

Band:

Setlist

Overture

A beautiful medley of some of Herbie Hancock's most famous songs.

Footprints (Wayne Shorter cover)

One special moment was that Herbie Hancock mentioned that Wayne Shorter was his best friend when he was introducing the song.

Actual Proof

Secret Sauce - Chameleon

The keytar came out for this one! The crowd went wild.

This past Sunday, I had the pleasure of experiencing the vibrant 87th Stern Grove Festival, a celebration that brings together legends and enthusiasts in the heart of San Francisco. The afternoon began with the electric sounds of DJ Wonway Posibul, paired with the great trumpet playing of Javier Santiago.

After the CEO of SFJAZZ ran the ceremonial bell to start off the afternnon, SFJAZZ Collective took the stage. The ensemble, featuring talents like Chris Potter on saxophone, David Sanchez, and the rhythmically gifted Kendrick Scott, filled the grove with their dynamic and captivating jazz orchestrations. Warren Wolf, Matt Brewer, Edward Simon, and Mike Rodriguez each brought their unique flavors, creating a rich tapestry of sound that reverberated among the towering trees. They play multiple movements composed by the members of the collective, each piece a testament to the power of collaboration and creativity. They had a series of disonant chords that start

After another DJ set by Wonway Posibul while watching the stage being set up, the moment we were all waiting for: Herbie Hancock. As the piano legend walked onto the stage, there was a shift in the air. The crowd erupted in applause, and the grove was filled with an energy that only a true master can evoke.

He started off the set with "Overture", a piece that had snippets of some of his most famous songs. The crowd was immediately drawn in, and as he transitioned into "Footprints", a Wayne Shorter cover, the magic truly began. Terence Blanchard on trumpet and keyboards, James Genus on bass, Lionel Loueke on guitar, and Jaylen Petinaud on drums all brought their A-game, creating a synergy that was nothing short of mesmerizing.

As I sat there among a crowd of diverse ages and backgrounds, I realized that this was more than just a concert; it was a shared experience of musical heritage. Herbie Hancock, with his effortless mastery of the piano, didn't just perform; he invited us into his world. The performance was not just heard but felt, a testament to the power of live music. The Stern Grove Festival once again proved to be a confluence of culture and history, showcasing music that transcends age and time. As I left the grove, the melodies lingered, a sweet echo of a Sunday afternoon well spent.

For those who missed it, the Stern Grove Festival continues to be a beacon of artistic brilliance in San Francisco. And for those who were there, we know we witnessed something special. Herbie Hancock didn't just play music; he reminded us why we love it.

Full concert audio