An unparalleled musical journey
Eddie Henderson is considered a true jazz legend, a trumpet player who has left an unmistakable mark on music. Born in the great city of New York in 1940, this artist continues to demonstrate a vitality and talent that surprise even after decades dedicated to the music scene. He has had the privileged opportunity to share the stage with iconic figures such as Herbie Hancock, Art Blakey, and Max Roach. In addition, Louis Armstrong was responsible for his first trumpet class, while Miles Davis provided him with the necessary inspiration to follow his musical dream.
A tour in Catalonia
Eddie Henderson is currently touring Catalonia with his quintet, with trombonist Steve Davis as a prominent collaborator. After memorable performances at the Ultramar de l’Escala and the Barcelona Jamboree, the next concert will take place at the Jazz Cava in Terrassa this Friday. We had the opportunity to speak with him after his recent concert in Ultramar, in a relaxed atmosphere in front of the sea.
First feelings and good vibes
Henderson’s enthusiasm is palpable: “We had our second performance of this tour last night, and I felt extremely lucky to be playing alongside these exceptional musicians. The musical chemistry between us is wonderful, and each of them comes with their homework done. It’s an immense pleasure to share the stage with such talented artists.”
Reflections on the Ultramar
Regarding the performance at the Ultramar, Henderson recalls: “At first I thought the space was small, but when I started playing I realized that the intimacy transformed the whole concert into a unique and beautiful experience. Playing without a microphone allows the audience to be more connected, and their response was incredible.”
The road to music
Surprisingly, Eddie Henderson didn’t always follow the path of music. In his childhood, his stepfather, who was a doctor, encouraged him to pursue a career in medicine, providing a motivation that made him study with dedication. “I studied medicine with the idea of proving that I could do it, although there was always a part of me fascinated by music.”
A significant turn
The decision to devote himself entirely to music came after some years of balancing both professions. His career began at the age of nine, when his mother, a dancer at the prestigious Cotton Club in Harlem, introduced him to Louis Armstrong. This first trumpet lesson was foundational, but the key moment was at seventeen when he met Miles Davis, a family friend who influenced him deeply.
Influences that leave a mark
With a great sense of awe, Henderson recalls, “Louis Armstrong directly taught me how to play the trumpet when I was just a kid, and I wasn’t fully aware of the importance of his legacy. With Miles Davis, it was a different story ; his music made me feel deep respect and admiration. I heard him play with John Coltrane and Cannonball Adderley, and those moments marked a before and an after in my view of music.”
The duality of his trajectory
Despite his musical ambitions, Henderson also completed his medical studies and worked in a hospital for several years. “After I graduated, I had the opportunity to play with Herbie Hancock, and that moment made me realize that music was my true passion. However, I had been in the medical world for twelve years before of moving to New York for good to fully integrate myself into the music industry.”
The legacy of discipline
“Learning discipline from a young age is essential, because it allows you to tackle multiple aspects of life successfully. Discipline is essential in both music and medicine. If you learn to be disciplined from a young age, you will be able to excel in various areas. Of course, as you get older, commitments and distractions start to take up a lot of your time.”
Moments that last
Among the memories that transcend his career, Henderson highlights playing with his jazz idols such as Herbie Hancock and Max Roach. “I don’t regret anything in my life; every experience has been valuable and helped me grow as a musician.”
Looking to the future
“I still feel full of energy and passion, and I’m very excited for what lies ahead after this tour. In the coming months, I have plans to record new material in New York City. Also, I will continue to perform with the band The Cookers, which features the talents of Billy Hart, George Cables and Cecil McBee, whom I have known for eighteen years. The key is to stay healthy and creative.”