GREENVILLE — ECU and the S. Rudolph Alexander Performing Arts Series will host Bobby McFerrin at 8 p.m. April 9 in Wright Auditorium on campus.
To some, McFerrin will always be the guy who sang “Don’t Worry Be Happy.” And he is that guy; he wrote and sang that global No. 1 hit more than 20 years ago. But if that song is all you know about McFerrin, YouTube him — but be prepared for a serious mind boggle.
As a vocalist, he often switches between modal and falsetto registers to create polyphonic effects, performing both the main melody and the accompanying parts of songs. He creates percussive effects with his mouth and by tapping on his chest. He is also known for the theme song for “The Cosby Show” and now participates on a panel for the World Science Festival, where he demonstrates pentatonic scales by using audience participation.
McFerrin has won 10 Grammy awards, including 1987 Best Jazz Performance for the song “What Is This Thing Called Love” with Herbie Hancock and 1988 Song of the Year for “Don’t Worry, Be Happy.”
He will be performing his new album, “spirityouall,” at ECU — inviting his audience to sit on the stoop awhile and listen as he throws some unexpected new ingredients into the melting pot and reinvents Americana.
Tickets are now on sale for $55/adult and $10/student/youth at ECU’s Central Ticket Office. They also can be purchased at ecu.edu/SRAPAS or by phone at 800-ECU-ARTS.
Individuals requesting accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act should contact the Department for Disability Support Services at least 48 hours before the event at 252-737-1016.
‘spirityouall’ — Bobby McFerrin on stage
8 p.m. April 9
Wright Auditorium
ECU campus, Greenville
Tickets: $55/adult and $10/student/youth
Available: ECU’s Central Ticket Office; ecu.edu/SRAPAS; or 800-ECU-ARTS