Besides being a philanthropist, composer, painter, sculptor and founder of one of the greatest independent record labels, Herb Alpert is best known as one of the world’s most enduring, renowned horn players. With five No. 1 hits, 28 Billboard records, eight Grammys, 14 platinum albums and 15 gold records, Alpert may be the most successful instrumentalist of all time.
He began his music career more than a half-century ago as a songwriter, penning hits for Sam Cooke as well as Jan and Dean, but it was the trumpet that brought him worldwide acclaim. Influenced by the mariachi music of Mexico, he adapted the south-of-the-border style and formed Herb Alpert and the Tijuana Brass. Self-funding his first record, Alpert’s ‘62 debut also marked the first release by A&M Records. What began as an independent record company in his garage would eventually become home to such notable acts as Cat Stevens, the Carpenters, Janet Jackson, the Police and most importantly, Sergio Mendes and the Brazil ‘66. Their lead vocalist, Lani Hall, would in time become Alpert’s wife and collaborator.
“I met Lani in 1966 at A&M Records,” notes Alpert. “She tried out as part of Sergio Mendes and Brazil ‘66. I produced Sergio’s first couple of records and realized Lani was a world-class singer. Not only that, but we became good friends for awhile and then one thing led to another. We’ve been married for 37 years now.”
Earlier this month, Alpert and Hall released “I Feel You.” Only their second official release performing together, the album features new takes on old standards, from The Beatles to Van Morrison.
“Lani and I are always trying to take a familiar song and put our own spin on it,” he says.
