Miles Davis was quite jealous of Hancock’s success with Headhunters. Miles’ 1972 album On the Corner was supposed to cement his status with the kids as a funk master. But the album did not sell nearly as well as Headhunters. In his autobiography, Miles blames Columbia’s misguided marketing of On the Corner, saying they marked the album to “old-time jazz people.” But when you listen to the two albums, Headhunters is the superior work. It’s the only time Miles was bested by one of his protégés.
I really love On the Corner but left it out for this piece. For me, it's the rhythm section of Head Hunters that puts it over the top - probably the most important piece for a good funk project! As a defender of Tutu, I also love when Davis and Hancock got weird with synths and drum machines in the 80s. Rockit always fills the dance floor!
Took your advice. Headhunters over cocktails with friends. Thanks for reminding me of this classic.
So, so good! Glad it made for a nice Friday evening.
Miles Davis was quite jealous of Hancock’s success with Headhunters. Miles’ 1972 album On the Corner was supposed to cement his status with the kids as a funk master. But the album did not sell nearly as well as Headhunters. In his autobiography, Miles blames Columbia’s misguided marketing of On the Corner, saying they marked the album to “old-time jazz people.” But when you listen to the two albums, Headhunters is the superior work. It’s the only time Miles was bested by one of his protégés.
I really love On the Corner but left it out for this piece. For me, it's the rhythm section of Head Hunters that puts it over the top - probably the most important piece for a good funk project! As a defender of Tutu, I also love when Davis and Hancock got weird with synths and drum machines in the 80s. Rockit always fills the dance floor!