The iconic Herbie Hancock headlines Jazz at the Bowl 2024

Living legend Herbie Hancock is set to light up the Sidney Myer Music Bowl stage with an electrifying evening of music to kick off the 2024 Melbourne International Jazz Festival.

With a career spanning seven decades and a staggering 14 GRAMMY awards, few artists have had more influence on modern music than Herbie Hancock. The creative force behind timeless classics like Cantaloupe Island, Chameleon, and Rockit, Hancock’s genre-transcending appeal and unmistakable style have cemented his status as “today’s greatest living artist,” as extolled by The Washington Post. Joined on the evening by the incomparable Marcus Miller and local soul superstar Bumpy, this rare convergence of musical titans—a hallmark of the always-anticipated Jazz at the Bowl—promises a night of history-making performances not to be missed.

Making his long-awaited Australian debut, Marcus Miller, consistently recognised as one of the greatest electric bassists of all time, has captivated the international music scene with his unparalleled talent for over 30 years. Renowned for his legendary technique and feel, Miller has been the first-choice player for artists so great they need only go by one name: Miles. Dizzy. Aretha. Chaka. Elton. Herbie.

“Having Herbie Hancock and Marcus Miller perform on the same evening at the iconic Sidney Myer Music Bowl is nothing short of extraordinary,” says festival artistic director, Michael Tortoni. “These two legends have shaped the soundscape of modern music in profound ways. Bringing them together in such a historic venue underscores the significance of Jazz at the Bowl and offers our audience a unique experience. It’s a celebration of iconoclastic excellence that will resonate for years to come.”

Rounding out the line-up is one of the country’s most vibrant and compelling soul singers, award-winning composer, producer and Noongar woman, Bumpy. With her powerful voice and emotive performances, Bumpy has carved out a unique place in the Australian music scene, captivating audiences with her raw talent and neo-soul storytelling.

Now in its third year, Jazz at the Bowl has firmly established itself as a truly unique festival-only experience. This year raises the bar yet again, providing audiences with a once in a lifetime opportunity to witness the legendary Herbie Hancock live—under the stars—at the Sidney Myer Music Bowl. Melbourne International Jazz Festival’s full 2024 program will be announced in August.

Event Details

Jazz at the Bowl
Saturday 19 October
Gates open at 4pm
Sidney Myer Music Bowl

Tickets on sale Tuesday 9 July, 1pm. Read more, and get tickets here.

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