Milestone Performance at Jazz at Lincoln Center

Legendary trumpeter Herb Alpert marked his 90th birthday with a memorable performance at the esteemed Jazz at Lincoln Center. This event also served as a reunion for a new iteration of the esteemed Tijuana Brass, a group he had not performed with for 40 years.

The concert celebrated not only his birthday but also the 60th anniversary of his iconic album Whipped Cream & Other Delights. Released in 1965, this album dominated the charts, earning the No. 1 spot for eight weeks, and played a significant role in shaping the sound of the era.

Reflections on a Remarkable Career

“It has been overwhelming. I didn’t realize I’d get this much attention at 90,” Alpert remarked, expressing gratitude for the ongoing admiration from his fans.

Instrumental in popularizing brass music in the 1960s, Alpert’s distinctive trumpet sound was notably influenced by the atmosphere of bullfights in Tijuana. His work permeated various cultural landscapes, featuring prominently in television commercials, game shows such as The Dating Game, and movies like Casino Royale. At his peak in 1966, he achieved an extraordinary milestone by having three albums in the top five—a feat that surpassed even renowned artists such as The Beatles and Frank Sinatra.

Revival of Classic Hits

Recently, his classic track Ladyfingers experienced a resurgence, gaining enormous popularity on platforms like TikTok and generating “three billion streams” on YouTube, which Alpert finds amusing considering the song was recorded over six decades ago.

Pivotal Moments and Collaborations

Alpert’s journey as an artist has not been without its hurdles. In 1969, amidst a personal upheaval marked by divorce, he faced a significant struggle with his trumpet, which he described at one point as “my enemy.” A turning point came after a session with esteemed brass teacher Carmine Caruso, who reintroduced him to the fundamentals of music, emphasizing that the instrument is merely “a piece of plumbing” and that true expression lies within.

In addition to his musical achievements, Alpert co-founded A&M Records with Jerry Moss, running the label on a handshake agreement from its inception in 1962 until their sale in 1990. Alpert often reflects on this partnership with deep emotion, recalling how they never formalized their agreement.

Current Journeys and Authenticity in Performance

Today, as Alpert tours with a reimagined Tijuana Brass, he expresses a renewed sense of passion for performing. He continues to share the stage with his wife, Lani Hall, a singer he met through his label’s involvement with Sergio Mendes and Brasil ’66.

“I try to be as authentic as I can when I play,” Alpert stated. “I’m playing in the moment of my life. And it’s a hard place to get to. But that’s the place I’m always looking for.”