Bobby Hutcherson (1941–2016) was a revered American jazz vibraphonist and composer, who redefined the trajectory of his instrument.Bobby Hutcherson
A pioneer of the vibraphone, marimba and xylophone in the jazz context, Hutcherson got his start in the experimental groups of Don Cherry, Charles Lloyd, and Paul Bley. In the 1960s, he showcased his knack for pristine harmonies and avant-garde sensibilities as a sideman on many classic albums, including Jackie McLean’s “Destination…Out!” and Eric Dolphy’s “Out to Lunch”. His distinctive sound derived from an almost purist approach to the vibraphone, with little use of effects and pedals. An atmospheric sonic texture that created space for his fellow soloists, and later got embraced by the hip-hop generation.
