Gershwin's World cover

Gershwin's World

Herbie Hancock · 1998

67 min · 14 tracks · classical · funk · jazz fusion

A vibrant fusion of jazz and classical elements that reimagines Gershwin's timeless compositions.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • dynamic journey with emotional peaks
  • vibrant reimaginings of classics
  • headphone detail with rich textures
  • for reflective afternoon listening

Maybe skip if you want

  • seeking instant gratification
  • prefer straightforward, upbeat tracks

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Experimental — It represents a unique fusion of jazz and classical, diverging from Hancock's established sound.
Themes
Gershwin's lyrical beauty· modern reinterpretation
Career context
By the time 'Gershwin's World' was released in 1998, Herbie Hancock had established himself as a versatile musician, transitioning from groundbreaking jazz innovator to a celebrated figure in various genres. This album followed his acclaimed works like 'Future Shock' and marked a deep exploration into the intersection of jazz and classical music, showcasing Hancock's adaptability and artistic growth.
Stylistic neighbors
Chick Corea· Weather Report· Miles Davis
If this clicks, go next to
Future2Future — Continues the experimental fusion with modern influences and fresh collaborations.
Sounds like this from elsewhere
Largo by Brad Mehldau — Merges jazz improvisation with classical structure, echoing Gershwin's lyrical beauty and modern reinterpretation.
Black Radio by Robert Glasper — Blends jazz with contemporary genres while maintaining a deep emotional connection, similar to Hancock's approach.
Return to Forever by Chick Corea — Fuses jazz and classical elements with a vibrant sound palette, reflecting the innovative spirit of Gershwin's compositions.

Tracklist

New here? Start with "It Ain't Necessarily So".

  • 1 Overture (Fascinating Rhythm) 0:54
  • 2 It Ain't Necessarily So Start here 4:46
  • 3 The Man I Love 5:57
  • 4 Here Come de Honey Man 3:58
  • 5 St. Louis Blues 5:50
  • 6 Lullaby 11:03
  • 7 Blueberry Rhyme 3:31
  • 8 It Ain't Necessarily So (interlude) 1:24
  • 9 Cotton Tail 4:44
  • 10 Summertime 4:41
  • 11 My Man's Gone Now 1:55
  • 12 Prelude in C# minor 4:45
  • 13 Concerto for Piano and Orchestra in G, 2nd Movement 9:12
  • 14 Embraceable You 4:38

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata