Herbie Hancock Reflects on His Career, AI, and the Emotional Power of Music

Herbie Hancock, an iconic jazz pianist and composer, opens up about his career, his experiences with Miles Davis, and his thoughts on technology. Despite being 84 years old, Hancock remains curious and engaged, often falling into YouTube rabbit holes exploring music software and technology. He reflects on his time with Miles Davis, describing both the intimidation and inspiration that came with playing in his legendary quintet. Hancock also shares his deep emotional connection to the piano, revealing that solving complex musical problems sometimes moves him to tears.

Beyond music, Hancock is fascinated by artificial intelligence. While acknowledging ethical concerns, he believes AI can help humanity become more responsible and ethical. He embraces technology, even saying “thank you” to AI assistants like ChatGPT and Siri. Looking ahead, he continues to perform, with a European tour planned for this summer, including UK dates. As he prepares to receive the prestigious Polar Music Prize in May 2025, Hancock remains a forward-thinking musician who blends tradition with innovation, always seeking new ways to evolve.