Date of Birth: March 11, 1950
Zodiac Sign: Pisces
Biography
Bobby McFerrin, born Robert Keith McFerrin Jr., is a renowned American jazz vocalist and conductor, best known for his hit song “Don’t Worry, Be Happy.” Born into a musically inclined family, his father, Robert McFerrin Sr., was the first African-American man to sing at the Metropolitan Opera, and his mother, Sara Copper, was a singer and a music teacher. Bobby McFerrin’s career spans over four decades, during which he has captivated audiences worldwide with his unique vocal techniques and improvisational skills. McFerrin’s early career was marked by his work as a pianist and singer in various bands, but he gained widespread recognition in the 1980s with his innovative solo performances that often featured him using his voice to create a variety of sounds and effects. His 1988 album, “Simple Pleasures,” which included the chart-topping single “Don’t Worry, Be Happy,” brought him international fame and earned him several Grammy Awards. In addition to his solo career, McFerrin has collaborated with numerous artists across different genres, including jazz, classical, and pop. He has also conducted orchestras and worked on various educational projects to promote music appreciation and creativity.
5 Interesting Facts about Bobby McFerrin
1. Bobby McFerrin’s father, Robert McFerrin Sr., was the first African-American man to sing at the Metropolitan Opera in New York City.
2. McFerrin’s song “Don’t Worry, Be Happy” was the first a cappella song to reach number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
3. He has won a total of 10 Grammy Awards throughout his career, including Best Jazz Vocal Performance and Best Recording for Children.
4. McFerrin is known for his ability to create multiple vocal parts and rhythms simultaneously, a technique that has influenced many contemporary vocalists.
5. He has served as a creative chair for the Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra, blending classical and jazz elements in his performances.
5 Most Interesting Quotes from Bobby McFerrin
1. “Don’t worry, be happy.”
2. “I try to sing in a way that makes people feel like they’re having a conversation with me.”
3. “Music is not just a part of life; it is life.”
4. “Improvisation is the courage to move from one note to the next.”
5. “I’m not interested in being a celebrity; I’m interested in being a musician.”
Highest Net Worth Achieved
Bobby McFerrin’s highest net worth achieved is estimated to be around $4 million.
Children
Bobby McFerrin has three children: Taylor McFerrin, Jevon McFerrin, and Madison McFerrin. Taylor is a DJ, music producer, and jazz musician, Jevon is an actor, and Madison is a singer-songwriter.
Relevant Links
1. [Official Website](https://bobbymcferrin.com/
2. [AllMusic Biography](https://www.allmusic.com/artist/bobby-mcferrin-mn0000062628/biography
3. [Grammy Awards History](https://www.grammy.com/grammys/artists/bobby-mcferrin/4620
4. [NPR Interview](https://www.npr.org/artists/15361342/bobby-mcferrin
5. [IMDb Profile](https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0568772/