Episode #113 Chris Botti Revisited

This episode of "The Other Side of The Bell" is brought to you by Bob Reeves Brass. Please enjoy this conversation with John and world-renowned trumpeter, Chris Botti. Chris was featured back in  Episode #24, and now again in Episode #113 with the release of his first album in over 10 years.  A video version of this episode is also available on YouTube.

About Chris Botti

Trumpeter Chris Botti s renowned for his versatility in both jazz and pop music. His mother, a pianist and teacher, was his first musical influence. Botti began playing trumpet at nine and fully committed to it at 12 after hearing Miles Davis. His early achievements include performing at Carnegie Hall with the McDonald's All American High School Jazz band. During his formative years, Botti was significantly influenced by his time at Indiana University, where he studied under renowned jazz educators David Baker and William Adam. This period was crucial in shaping his musical style and approach.

Botti's career took off with short touring stints with Frank Sinatra and Buddy Rich, and his relationship with Paul Simon in the 1990s further expanded his musical collaborations. Additionally, Botti's association with Sting, particularly touring as a featured soloist in Sting's "Brand New Day" tour, played a pivotal role in his career. This collaboration not only broadened his musical exposure but also significantly influenced the trajectory of his career, marking a key phase in his development as a musician​​.His solo debut album, "First Wish," was released in 1995, marking the start of a successful solo career. Botti's work often bridges jazz and pop, demonstrated in albums like "A Thousand Kisses Deep" and "When I Fall in Love." His album "Impressions" won a Grammy in 2013 for Best Pop Instrumental Album, a category for which he had received several nominations.

Chris Botti's current projects showcase his enduring creativity and versatility as a musician, including his Blue Note Records debut, "Vol. 1," released on October 20th. This album marks a fresh start for Botti, emphasizing a return to the jazz essence of his artistry. "Vol. 1" features beautiful new ballad renditions of standards, including “Old Folks,” “My Funny Valentine,” “Someday My Prince Will Come,” and “Blue In Green.” This project signifies Botti crossing back to acoustic jazz and classic standards after achieving crossover success in both jazz and pop arenas​​​​​​​​.

In addition to his new album, Botti is embarking on an innovative venture, "Botti at Sea." This luxury cruise, personally curated by Botti, promises an exceptional experience of ensemble entertainment and showmanship. Scheduled to sail from February 8 to 15, 2024, the cruise departs from Miami with stops in Aruba and Curaçao. "Botti at Sea" is set to offer a unique blend of music and luxury, further highlighting Botti's flair for combining artistic pursuits with novel experiences​​​​​​.

Jump Ahead
[0:04:16] Changes since the last podcast, focusing on Botti's decision to record a new album despite previous reservations.
[0:06:22] Botti talks about his switch to Blue Note Records and working with David Foster
[0:08:00] Details on the production and concept of the "Vol. One" album. [0:09:37] Conversation about the recording process of the album.
[0:12:32] Botti's approach to choosing the song "Fix You" for the album. [0:14:24] Discussion on the dynamics of recording in a studio with live musicians.
[0:17:22] Plans for future volumes following "Volume One."
[0:20:14] Botti's live shows and the contrast between studio and live performances.
[0:21:39] Chris Botti's routine and practice habits while touring.
[0:24:07] Botti discusses his musical approach and practice techniques. [0:26:53] Insights into Botti's process of learning and transcribing solos. [0:29:37] Botti talks about current musicians he admires and learns from. [0:31:04] Botti's stage presence and preparation for live performances. [0:33:00] The mental and physical aspects of playing the trumpet in live shows.
[0:34:07] Botti discusses the challenges and rewards of maintaining a touring schedule.
[0:35:22] Reflections on Botti's decision to study at Indiana University. [0:36:50] Botti recounts his experience with Buddy Rich's band and his decision not to play in big bands.
[0:39:15] Botti's career choices, including the decision not to tour with the Rolling Stones.
[0:41:46] Story of how Botti started his first horn section in New York. [0:47:08] Anecdote about forming a horn section with Michael Davis and the importance of seizing opportunities.
[0:52:29] Discussion about Botti's approach to live performances and audience engagement.
[0:56:36] Insights into Botti's continuous inspiration for touring and performing.
[0:58:55] Botti talks about his choice of musical instruments and equipment.
[1:01:09] Botti reflects on his admiration for Wynton Marsalis and their meeting post-pandemic.

Links
chrisbotti.com
bottiatsea.com

Other Places to Listen
trumpetpodcast.com
bobreeves.com/spotify
bobreeves.com/itunes

Podcast Credits
“A Room with a View“ – composed and performed by Howie Shear
Audio Engineer – Preston Shepard
Podcast Logo – Phil Jordan
Video Production - Paul Peltekian
Podcast Host – John Snell