Don't Worry, Be Happy

Have you heard the word A CAPELLA?

The term that most of us understand as 'vocal music without instruments' is Italian for 'in the manner of the chapel'.

The Youth Choir Competition that I attended in January had some excellent presentations of A Capella. I guess most of you would have heard the captivating tracks by the Pentatonix and other a cappella performance including Boyz II Men among others.  

But do you know which was the first 'acapella' song to reach the number one spot on the Billboard single charts?

A clue: the year 1988

The song and singer also won Grammys in 1989 for 'Song of the Year', 'Record of the Year' and 'Best Male Pop Vocal Performance'.

Do you have an answer?

Even if you don't, 'Don't Worry, Be Happy'.

You got you're answer right there... the first 'a capella' song to top the Billboard singles charts ever was 'Don't Worry, Be Happy' by Bobby McFerrin.

Ten-time Grammy winner, Bobby has been a strong proponent for creativity in music and unique voice techniques. He's demonstrated most of that vocal talent in the song including scat techniques and vocal percussion... that is gaining popularity nowadays as 'beatboxing'.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY BOBBY McFERRIN

On his 66th Birthday today, he has a lesson for all of us. Put up the volume on this one and join the audience in this exercise on the Pentatonic scale.

We look forward to more music and lessons from you during the year...