She was born in Marlin, Texas, and raised in Dallas. Her flute training included classical and jazz styles in high school. She continued her studies at Texas Southern University and Southern Methodist University. Dizzy Gillespie saw Humphrey play at a talent contest at Southern Methodist, and inspired her to pursue a musical career in New York City. She followed his advice, getting her first big break performing at the Apollo Theatre on Amateur Night. She eventually began playing regularly throughout the city, including a gig with Duke Ellington.
By 1972, she was recording for the Blue Note Jazz label, one of the first female instrumentalists to do so. Humphrey has played with well-known musicians, ranging from Duke Ellington to Lee Morgan. Guitarist George Benson and Humphrey were guest musicians on Humphrey's friend Stevie Wonder's single "Another Star" from his Songs in the Key of Life (1976) album. In 1976, she was named Best Female Instrumentalist by Billboard. In 1994 Humphrey launched her label, Paradise Sounds Records, releasing Passion Flute, which continues to be one of her best-selling recordings.
Bobbi Humphrey has played at the Apollo Theatre, Hollywood Bowl, Carnegie Hall, Montreux Jazz Festival, Russian River Jazz Festival (Northern California), and other venues around the world.
Harlem River Drive
Bobbi Humphrey Lyrics
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going for a ride
The lyrics to Bobbi Humphrey's song Harlem River Drive capture the essence of cruising along Harlem River Drive, which is a highway that runs through Manhattan's Harlem neighborhood. The song starts with a mellow and jazzy tune accompanied by Humphrey's soulful and smooth voice. The line "Harlem River Drive, going for a ride" sets the tone for the entire song, which is about taking a leisurely drive along the river and enjoying the scenery and ambiance of the area.
As the song continues, Humphrey's lyrics paint a vivid picture of what it's like to drive along Harlem River Drive. The lines "The sun is going down, the stars come out to play" evoke the feeling of a calm and peaceful twilight, while "the city lights, like diamonds shining bright" represent the breathtaking views of the city skyline in the distance. Humphrey's lyrics also allude to the rich cultural history of the Harlem neighborhood, as she sings about "the sounds of jazz, coming from every door," a reference to the neighborhood's legendary music scene.
Overall, Bobbi Humphrey's song Harlem River Drive is a nostalgic and captivating tribute to the unique beauty and culture of Harlem. The lyrics capture the feeling of cruising along the river and taking in the sights and sounds of this historic neighborhood, making the song a beloved classic for fans of jazz, soul, and R&B.
Line by Line Meaning
harlem river drive
Cruising through the Harlem River Drive
going for a ride
Going on a carefree drive to enjoy the scenery and the feeling of freedom
Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group, Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC
Written by: LARRY MIZELL
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind