Herbie Hancock to headline Cunard transatlantic crossing

Jazz legend Herbie Hancock is set to headline Cunard‘s Blue Note transatlantic crossing event. 

The musician, who is considered one of the most influential artists in jazz history, will play on board the line’s Queen Mary 2 next year.

The 14-time Grammy winner will perform three, 45 minute intimate shows in The Royal Court Theatre on an eight-night crossing from Southampton to New York on August 1-8, 2016.

He said: “Some members of my band sailed on the first Queen Mary 2 Blue Note voyage in November this year and had an amazing time.

“I am really looking forward to sailing across the Atlantic on such an iconic ship and sharing some great music with everyone on board.”

Hancock, whose career spans over five decades, was part of the Miles Davis Quintet and is considered a pioneer of the ‘post-bop’ sound.

During the westbound transatlantic crossing, he will be joined by band members, drummer Vinnie Colaiuta, bassist James Genus and guitarist Lionel Loueke.

Cunard marketing director, Angus Struthers, said: “It is a huge honour to welcome arguably one of the greatest jazz musicians in history on board Queen Mary 2 as part of our ongoing partnership with Blue Note Records.

“Having Herbie perform on board Queen Mary 2 demonstrates how Cunard continues to attract world leaders in the field of entertainment.”