Bobby Hutcherson

Bobby Hutcherson, one of jazz's greatest vibraphonists, emerged in the '60s playing cerebral, avant-garde modern jazz. Alongside Gary Burton, he modernized the vibraphone, redefining its sonic and emotional possibilities. Hutcherson's early experimental work on Blue Note established him as a pioneering voice in the "new thing" movement, before transitioning to a more mainstream post-bop style that showcased his mastery of the instrument.

Born in 1941 in Los Angeles, Hutcherson was inspired by vibraphonist Milt Jackson and eventually made a name for himself in New York's jazz scene, collaborating with notable musicians like Eric Dolphy and Herbie Hancock. Hutcherson's influential contributions to albums like One Step Beyond and Out to Lunch propelled his career, leading to acclaimed releases such as Dialogue and Components. Despite briefly exploring fusion, Hutcherson returned to modal bop and continued recording innovative music until his passing in 2016.