Last month, I conducted an interview with SFJAZZ executive producer Randall Kline. One topic we covered was the fact the series features far more than just jazz: “Our internal programming compass is jazz, music that jazz has influenced and music that has influenced jazz,” he said.
Expect to hear the second category Wednesday as Hawaiian-born ukulele ace Jake Shimabukuro performs at 7:30 p.m. at Davies Symphony Hall. The evening begins with the artist delivering a pre-concert talk.
Suffice it to say, the 32-year-old does a lot more with the instrument than you might imagine if all you know of the uke is Tiny Tim. Shimabukuro’s sound incorporates elements of jazz, country and flamenco; his repertoire, comprised primarily of originals, touches on everything from Schubert and Erroll Garner to Led Zeppelin and the Beatles.
Shimabukuro’s latest releases are a live album (which includes his cover of Michael Jackson “Thriller” – check out the video) and the two-track “Annon” (recorded to mark the 750th memorial service of Shin Buddhism founder Shinran Shonin).
Here’s what Shimabukuro had to say the other day when our e-mail reached him in Japan.
Question: While your sound doesn't quite fit with traditional jazz, what can you tell us about the influence jazz has had on your playing?
Shimabukuro: Actually, I love all sorts of musical styles. When I was a kid, I didn't know that there were so many different kinds of music – it all just sounded like music to me. I had favorite songs, but not genres.
Now that I'm older, I have a better understanding of what characteristics make each style what it is. To me, jazz is an expression of the moment in which it is being created. I love listening to it even when I can't understand exactly what's happening. It just feels good. When people ask me what kind of music I play, I just tell them ukulele music.
Question: The live album includes your version of "While My Guitar Gently Weeps." There's been a bit of media coverage in recent years about George Harrison's love of the uke: Paul McCartney these days covers "Something" in concert using the instrument. Has this advocacy had any impact that you've noticed on the public's embrace of the instrument?
Shimabukuro: I think the ukulele has always been a popular instrument all over the world. But recently, I think people's perspective of the instrument is changing. With ukulele players like Harrison, McCartney, Jack Johnson and Iz, the idea of the ukulele as a serious instrument is definitely growing. It's a good time to be a ukulele player. Hehe!
Question: What can you tell us about your next recording project?
Shimabukuro: I don't have any plans to go into the studio anytime soon. I'm actually working on an instructional DVD and songbook right now. That's been a big challenge for me. It's all fun and exciting though. I love all the experiences I've been having recently – touring, recording, writing, collaborating with other artists. Each experience is unique and special – I hope to continue for a very long time.
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