Herbie Hancock: Possibilities

Praise

“Herbie Hancock has led a fascinating life. And the story of that life makes a fascinating book.”—Peter Keepnews, The New York Times Book Review (Editor’s Choice) 

“Few jazz biographies are perfect, though Hancock’s Possibilities come closer than some.” —Kevin Whitehead, Fresh Air 

“[Possibilities is] very effective at its paramount task: getting the reader to dig into the catalog of this restless jazz genius with newly edified ears.”—The Boston Globe 

“Hancock, a Buddhist, writes about his spiritual journey in Possibilities but isn’t preachy about his its effect on his life, relationships, music and philosophy. His stories of famous jazz artists are done with reverence and a sense of reporting, for the record, many artists who didn’t achieve as much fame as others but should be given their equal artistic due.” —New York Journal of Books 

“Revelations come thick and fast in this terrific page-turner.  Honest, self-effacing, and packed with good stories Possibilities presents an intimate self-portrait of one of popular music’s most influential and affable keyboardists.” —Mojo Magazine 

“Possibilities is a vividly written reflection on his own life—and a way of living.” —Milwaukee Shepherd Express 

“A mind blowing who’s who of jazz music . . . Amazing work here for musician and fan alike.” —Ebony.com  

“As the pianist relates his outré journey toward redemption, it becomes clear that spirituality and love have played overarching roles in his continued success and evolution.” —Alibi 

“Melodically weaving the notes of his personal life around his exploration of numerous music genres from classical and R&B to funk and hip-hop, renowned pianist Hancock elegantly composes a tuneful sound track of his life in music.” —Publishers Weekly (Starred Review) 

“A warm, inspiring book by a man who seems to have little ego despite a career spent near the peak of his art. Recommended reading for jazz aficionados.” —Kirkus Reviews

“He has remained true to his art and his (Buddhist) poise during turbulent times, and his description of his upbringing and encounters with often turbulent individuals (not least of them Davis) provides a unique slant on America’s musical scene.” —Booklist 

“Brilliant . . . reveals the method behind this remarkable jazz performer . . . a testament to a man who faced in life what seemed impossible and made it possible.” —Library Journal 

“This book is many treasures. You have to read it to understand Herbie Hancock, to read and understand Mr. Hancock explaining how he achieved things. It is also a great treasure to make contact. The contact is you and Herbie telling you about himself. You are receiving the information and understandings of himself to you. He is very, very clear. Thank you, Herbie, because so many geniuses like yourself in the arts have trouble defining themselves and what they do.” —Bill Cosby 

“Herbie and I have been brothers since before electricity! One of my favorite things about Herbie is that both he and I aim to de-categorize music; we don’t think of music in terms of genres or rules, we both live outside the box and love good music, no matter the genre. If you like piano, or jazz, or music, or great stories, or life itself, you will love this book. Herbie Hancock has been electrifying audiences for decades, and now he’s about to do it to readers, too.” —Quincy Jones 

Herbie Hancock’s new book, Possibilities, elevates, transforms, and illumines consciousness. This wealth of insight opens winder the space of possibilities with raw honesty, courage, and curiosity. It takes us into a place of brilliant alchemy of God’s life, music, and humor. Genius IS as genius does.” —Carlos Santana 

“Herbie Hancock is one of the greats. His book is a fascinating account of his time in the music business. From Miles Davis to Paul Simon and beyond, Herbie’s stories are an insightful delight for all of us.” —Paul McCartney