He's a serious artist who doesn't take himself too seriously. For decades the ukelele was defined for many as a novelty instrument. Tiny Tim, a beloved act in the 1960s (and no stranger to Fall River, btw, playing this area frequently until his passing), had a ukelele hit with the campy "Tiptoe Thru the Tulips," warbling the tune in falsetto.
Now Hawaii's Jake Shimabukuro is defining the instrument worldwide, and others, like Pearl Jam's Eddie Vedder, who recently released a ukelele recording, are in his shadow. And he showed why Saturday night at the Narrows.
Aside from his instrumental prowess--which is in the same league as another Narrows fave, the California Guitar Trio--he's an entertainer, mixing artistry with amusing stories about growing up and going to high school.
A fabulous night and a sold out show (featuring two openers Tripping Lily and Jimmy Buffet discovery Ilo Ferreira) streamed live on mvyradio.com. Should be in their archives soon.
I leave you with a must-see: Jake and his version of George Harrison's "While My Guitar Gently Weeps." Nearly 1.4 million views on YouTube.
1 comment:
From Richard,
Fantastic show! Jake is incredible/awesome!! The opening acts introduced me to two great sets of musicians I wasn’t aware of before but I am now a fan, Tripping Lily and the incredible IIo Ferreira. I thought Jake had a great way to end the show with him doing a number with Tripping Lily. The ukulele is the instrument of peace,” Jake said. “And if everyone played one, the world would be a better place.”
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