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Singer Bobby McFerrin.

Jazz vocalist Bobby McFerrin. He's been called a one man vocal group, with teh ability to simultaneously sing parts from bass to falsetto. McFerrin had been well known to jazz audiences for years, but finally had a big crossover hit with his song "Don't Worry, Be Happy." Terry spoke with him two years before that song came out, in an interview originally broadcast on 1/20/87 and 09/29/1986

11:21
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Other segments from the episode on December 25, 1989

Fresh Air with Terry Gross, December 25, 1989: Interview with Susannah McCorkle; Commentary on jazz in the 1980s; Interview with Bobby McFerrin; Review of the best television shows of the 1980s.
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06:55

Jazz in the 1980s: An Historical Era.

Jazz critic Kevin Whitehead looks back on jazz in the 80s...the big figures, the big trends, the big albums, and he takes a guess as to what the 90s will bring.

Commentary
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03:48

TV in the 1980s: The Big Picture.

Television critic David Bianculli gives his picks for the best shows of the 80s..the big surprise is that relatively few of them were on the three major networks.

Review

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Transcripts are created on a rush deadline, and accuracy and availability may vary. This text may not be in its final form and may be updated or revised in the future. Please be aware that the authoritative record of Fresh Air interviews and reviews are the audio recordings of each segment.

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11:31

Bobby McFerrin Returns to Performance.

A cappella vocalist Bobby McFerrin. He's best known for his recording, "Don't Worry Be Happy," one of several records that's earned McFarrin Grammy awards. Another was for the title track from the film "Round Midnight," in which he used his voice to sound like a trumpet. McFerrin's newest project is "Voicestra," a 10 member vocal ensemble, with a background that ranges from classical music and jazz to theatre and dance. The group has its debut in Los Angeles, April 10-15.

Interview
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27:57

Singer Bobby McFerrin

The musician started his career as a pianist, later focusing on vocals at the age of 27. He has developed an unusual technique and impressive three-and-a-half octave range.

Interview
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55:54

Singer Bobby McFerrin

The musician started his career as a pianist, later focusing on vocals at the age of 27. He has developed an unusual technique and impressive three-and-a-half octave range.

Interview

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