John Francis Anthony "Jaco" Pastorius III, born on December 1, 1951, in Norristown, Pennsylvania, was an American jazz bassist, composer, and producer. Known for his innovative approach to the electric bass, Jaco revolutionized the role of the bass in modern music. His virtuosic technique, melodic sense, and use of harmonics set new standards and inspired generations of musicians.
Jaco Pastorius Career Highlights
1974 Released his self-produced debut album, "Jaco," which garnered attention from the jazz community.
1976 Signed with Epic Records and released his self-titled album, "Jaco Pastorius," featuring tracks like "Donna Lee" and "Portrait of Tracy."
1976 Joined the jazz fusion band Weather Report, significantly contributing to their landmark albums.
1977 Featured on Weather Report's "Heavy Weather," which included the hit "Birdland."
1978 Released "Word of Mouth," his second solo album, showcasing his compositional skills and broad musical vision.
1980 Formed the Word of Mouth Big Band, a large ensemble that performed his compositions and arrangements.
1981 Released "Word of Mouth," an album that featured notable musicians such as Herbie Hancock and Toots Thielemans.
1983 Released "Invitation," a live album capturing performances of the Word of Mouth Big Band in Japan.
1985 Contributed to Joni Mitchell's album "Dog Eat Dog," showcasing his versatility.
1986 Performed with guitarist Mike Stern, continuing to influence the jazz fusion scene.
1987 Passed away on September 21, 1987, due to injuries sustained in an altercation.
Jaco Pastorius' Bands
Jaco Pastorius was a member of several influential bands
Weather Report Joined in 1976, contributing to their success and critically acclaimed albums such as "Heavy Weather."
Joni Mitchell's Band Collaborated with Joni Mitchell on multiple albums, including "Hejira" and "Mingus."
Word of Mouth Big Band - His own ensemble, formed to perform his compositions and arrangements.
Jaco Pastorius Grammy Awards
Jaco Pastorius was nominated for multiple Grammy Awards, and his contributions to Weather Report and collaborations with other artists received significant recognition. His posthumous influence has also been acknowledged in various awards and honors.
Most Famous Songs/Collaborations
1. "Birdland" A track from Weather Report's "Heavy Weather," where Jaco's bass lines and melodic sensibility are prominently featured.
2. "Portrait of Tracy" From his debut solo album, this song showcases Jaco's innovative use of harmonics and lyrical approach to the bass.
3. "Continuum" Another standout track from his debut album, highlighting his melodic prowess and compositional skills.
Quotes
A bass should sound like a bass with the thump of the finger against the wood, like it began with the human body in mind
To get the gig with Weather Report he walked up to jazz legend Joe Zawinul and said…
I’m John Francis Anthony Pastorius III and I’m the Greatest bass player in the world.
He was.
Jaco Pastorius Scandal/Gossip/Trivia
- Personal Struggles: Jaco struggled with bipolar disorder and substance abuse, which affected his personal and professional life.
- Altercation and Death: Jaco died at the age of 35 after sustaining injuries in a fight outside a Florida nightclub, a tragic end to a brilliant but tumultuous career.
- Posthumous Recognition: Despite his early death, Jaco's influence continues to grow, with many artists citing him as a major inspiration. His life and music were chronicled in the 2014 documentary "Jaco," produced by Robert Trujillo of Metallica.
Jaco Pastorius's groundbreaking approach to the electric bass forever changed the landscape of modern music. His innovative techniques, compositions, and performances continue to inspire musicians worldwide. Despite his tragic and early death, his legacy endures, and he remains a towering figure in the history of jazz and fusion music.
Jaco Pastorius ratings
Songs: Portrait of Tracy,Continuum,Birdland
Gear: Fender Jazz Bass