Simple Pleasures (1988) showcases the unique artistry of Bobby McFerrin, a master of vocal innovation and musical exploration
Known for his extraordinary vocal range, percussive techniques, and ability to mimic instruments, McFerrin steps into a more accessible realm with this album, blending pop, soul, and a cappella with his signature creativity. Featuring the global smash hit Don’t Worry, Be Happy the album is a charming, minimalist journey through music that emphasizes joy and simplicity. Personnaly, I also love Circle Songs and the way he sings Round Midnight, with Chick Corea on piano. And don’t forget the Round Midnight movie score…
Few words about the record
Produced by Linda Goldstein, Simple Pleasures relies entirely on McFerrin’s voice, layered and looped to create a rich, multi-textured sound. The album’s minimalist production puts McFerrin’s extraordinary vocal talent front and center, highlighting his uncanny ability to imitate instruments like bass, percussion, and brass with stunning accuracy. The album’s title reflects its ethos: embracing the beauty of simplicity. The arrangements, while sparse, are meticulously crafted, allowing McFerrin’s artistry to shine without distraction. This 1988 all a cappella recording brought Bobby McFerrin to a mainstream music consciousness. It includes his Grammy-winning single Don’t Worry Be Happy. It is not new to tell he is a bit fed up that everyone always asks him about it, and that he don’t want to hear it anymore, but, anyways, it helped him enough to do daily keep doing what he loves…
I love to sing and I love to be adventuresome. It’s like the thrill of your first hang-gliding experience, standing on top of a mountain and getting ready to jump off–you’ve got faith in this big kite in back of you. With me, it’s the same way with singing, especially a cappella (Bobby McFerrin)
Vocal virtuoso Bobby McFerrin is one of the most distinctive and original singers in contemporary music (equally adept in jazz, pop and classical settings). His octave-jumping trademark style, with its rhythmic inhalations and stop-on-a-dime shifts from falsetto to deep bass notes, often sounds like the work of at least two or three singers at once, while at the same time sounding quite unlike anyone else… Simple Pleasures is a delightful and uplifting record that balances technical mastery with emotional resonance. It’s an essential listen for fans of vocal music and anyone looking for a dose of positivity. Though best known for its standout single, the album offers much more, inviting listeners to explore the boundless possibilities of the human voice.
