Episode 18 - Herb Alpert

One of the most accomplished artists in the music industry, Herb Alpert has sold over 72 million records and co-founded A&M Records, one of the most successful independent music labels in history and home to such artists as The Carpenters, Quincy Jones, Cat Stevens and Peter Frampton.  A brand new documentary, Herb Alpert Is…, directed by John Scheinfeld, provides a passionate and inspiring look at the life and work of Alpert and the incredible impact he’s had on American culture.   Trumpet in hand, Herb Alpert first rose to fame in the 1960s with his Latin-flavored group the Tijuana Brass Band and has gone on to earn 15 gold and 14 platinum records. He has won nine Grammys and received the National Medal of Arts from President Obama in 2012.  Less known is his striking work as an abstract painter and sculptor. And he was just named “Philanthropist of the Year” by the Los Angeles Business Journal for his significant support of educational programs in the arts nationwide, from the Harlem School of the Arts and UCLA to the annual ASCAP Foundation Herb Alpert Young Jazz Composer Awards. Alpert talks to us about his decades-long career, the documentary and what lessons he’s learned - and still learning -  on his incredible, artistic journey.  Also, award-winning jazz composer, vocalist and multi-instrumentalist Camille Thurman co-hosts and shares some valuable tips on staying inspired, creative and focused on your craft during the pandemic. Then music biz vet Benjamin Groff explains how to find and develop your identity as an artist. If you want to check out the fantastic new film, Herb Alpert Is… ASCAP and the ASCAP Foundation are thrilled to bring you an exciting opportunity to support the Foundation and entertain yourself in the process. Just use our special link to rent and stream the film PLUS watch some exclusive bonus material. 50% of the proceeds will be donated to the ASCAP Foundation to help nurture the music talent of tomorrow. Are you a jazz composer under the age of 30? Submit a new, original work for The ASCAP Foundation Herb Alpert Young Jazz Composer Awards, an honor granted annually to encourage talented jazz composers during the earliest stages of their careers. Winning composers will receive a monetary prize. The deadline is December 15, 2020. Check out Benjamin Groff’s first book, How Do I Get A Record Deal? Sign Yourself! - it’s currently available for free. He also has some terrific Teachable courses on songwriting and marketing, which you can find on his website too - he’s offering VERSED listeners 20% off, using code BENJAMIN20. Listen, Watch & Subscribe  Apple Podcasts | YouTube | Spotify | Stitcher | Google Podcasts