About This Episode
This is an extended audio interview from “Cosmic Jazz, with Wayne Shorter and Herbie Hancock” on StarTalk Radio with Neil deGrasse Tyson. Sit back, relax, and let the sounds of sharp notes and smooth vibes take over as Neil deGrasse Tyson chats with jazz legends Wayne Shorter and Herbie Hancock about the art and science of jazz music. You’ll hear about Wayne and Herbie’s first steps on their path in music, the importance of having great mentors, and why jazz may not be as popular as it once was. You’ll learn about the art of tinkering: why Herbie used to take apart watches and clocks. You’ll also hear about Wayne’s cosmic inspirations, including a space adventure comic book he drew in 1949. You’ll also learn about how Wayne and Herbie would describe jazz music to an alien visiting from Mars and the improvisational nature of jazz.
Please note that this is the raw interview, with minor edits made to the original interview by our producer to address recording issues, not content. Enjoy!