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1973 instrumental by Herbie Hancock From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
"Chameleon" is a jazz fusion standard composed by Herbie Hancock with Bennie Maupin, Paul Jackson and Harvey Mason,[3] all of whom also performed the original 15:44 full-length version on the 1973 album Head Hunters,[4] and featuring solos by Hancock and Maupin. The 9:41 edit omits an out-of-tune segment, features a new bassline added in at around 6:40 and new instruments added in post-production.
"Chameleon" | |
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Instrumental by Herbie Hancock | |
from the album Head Hunters | |
Released | 1973 |
Recorded | September 1973 |
Genre | Funk,[1] jazz-funk[2] |
Length | 15:41 |
Label | Columbia |
Composer(s) |
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Producer(s) |
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The song has a characteristic bass line and is set to a funk beat. For the most part, it is built entirely on a two-chord vamp: a i-IV in B♭ Dorian (B♭m7 and E♭7).[5] The piece's signature 12-note bass line was played by Hancock on an ARP Odyssey,[6][7] as was one of the keyboard solos. The other keyboard solo was played on a Rhodes piano.
Chart (1974) | Peak position |
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US Billboard Hot 100[8] | 42 |
US Billboard Hot Soul Singles[9] | 18 |
The piece is one of the most widely recognized jazz standards, and has become standard repertoire in many small jazz ensembles. It has been performed by various artists including:
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