Bobbi Humphrey

Bobbi Humphrey, a jazz flautist known for her fusion and smooth jazz-pop style, gained popularity early in her career with her pop-oriented jazz-fusion sound. Throughout her decades-long career, she maintained a loyal audience who appreciated her technique and showmanship, with highlights including performances at prestigious venues like the Montreux Festival and Carnegie Hall. Humphrey's success continued with her signing to Blue Note Records in 1971, where her albums such as Blacks and Blues garnered crossover appeal.

Originally from Marlin, TX, Humphrey moved to Dallas where she began playing the flute in high school. Encouraged by Dizzy Gillespie after a talent contest at Southern Methodist University, she pursued a music career in New York City. Humphrey's career flourished with performances at iconic venues like the Apollo Theater and collaborations with legends like Duke Ellington. Her success with Blue Note Records led to accolades such as being named Best Female Instrumentalist by Billboard in 1976.