Hendricks
Music Inc.

Jon Hendricks, a legendary jazz singer, songwriter, and lyricist, has left an indelible mark on the world of jazz music through his innovative compositions and lyrical contributions. As one-third of the iconic vocal trio Lambert, Hendricks & Ross and as a solo artist, Hendricks’s prolific career has produced a remarkable catalog of songs that continue to influence and inspire generations of jazz musicians.

In the 1950s and 1960s, Jon Hendricks, along with Dave Lambert and Annie Ross, formed Lambert, Hendricks & Ross, a groundbreaking vocal group that introduced the world to the art of vocalese. Their innovative approach involved setting lyrics to famous jazz instrumental solos, effectively transforming these instrumentals into vocal pieces. Some of the notable songs written and performed by Jon Hendricks during this period include:

• “Cloudburst” – “Cloudburst” became one of Lambert, Hendricks & Ross’s signature songs, known for its intricate vocal harmonies and Hendricks’s witty and rapid-fire lyrics.
• “Twisted” – Written by Jon Hendricks with music by Wardell Gray, “Twisted” is a classic example of the trio’s vocalese style, combining humor and intricate vocal arrangements.
• “Gimme That Wine” – Hendricks’s humorous and playful lyrics in “Gimme That Wine” added a unique dimension to the trio’s repertoire, showcasing his skill as a lyricist.

In addition to his work with Lambert, Hendricks & Ross, Jon Hendricks’s solo career and collaborations with jazz luminaries such as Count Basie and Duke Ellington further expanded his influence in the jazz world. His songwriting and lyrical talents continued to shine through in compositions like:

• “Listen to Monk” – Hendricks’s tribute to jazz pianist Thelonious Monk, where he set lyrics to Monk’s compositions, showcasing his deep appreciation for fellow jazz artists.
• “I’ll Die Happy” – A reflective and emotive composition that highlights Hendricks’s ability to convey deep emotions through his lyrics.
• “In Summer” – A captivating song that exemplifies Hendricks’s talent for crafting vivid and evocative narratives through his lyrics.

Hendricks Music Inc., the publishing entity associated with his works, continues to preserve and promote the invaluable contributions of this jazz legend.