Legendary trumpeter Herb Alpert made a memorable return to the stage last month, celebrating his 90th birthday with a performance at Jazz at Lincoln Center. This event not only marked his milestone birthday but also saw him officially return to the beloved Tijuana Brass format for the first time in four decades.

This particularly significant performance aligns with the 60th anniversary of Alpert’s acclaimed album, “Whipped Cream & Other Delights.” Upon its release in 1965, this album swiftly took the music charts by storm, holding the No. 1 position for eight consecutive weeks and playing a pivotal role in defining the sound of the decade.

Reflections on a Remarkable Career

Expressing his sentiments about the celebration, Alpert remarked, “It has been overwhelming. I didn’t realize I’d get this much attention at 90.” This reflection speaks to the enduring legacy he has created over his extensive career.

Alpert’s unique brass sound, which he often roots in the ambiance of bullfights in Tijuana, has profoundly influenced the music scene of the 1960s. His work was not only prevalent across various television advertisements and popular game shows, such as “The Dating Game,” but also featured in iconic films, including “Casino Royale.” In 1966, Alpert achieved a remarkable feat by having three of his albums simultaneously charting in the top five, surpassing sales of influential acts like The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, and Frank Sinatra. “Sometimes I was even a little embarrassed by it all,” he admitted.

Reviving Old Hits in the Digital Age

Recently, one of his classic hits, “Ladyfingers,” experienced a renaissance through social media, notably TikTok, where it has amassed an impressive “three billion streams” on YouTube. Alpert commented on this resurgence, noting, “It’s strange because I recorded it like 60 years ago.”

Confronting Challenges and Finding Breakthroughs

While Alpert’s career has been largely triumphant, it has not been without its hurdles. In 1969, during a personal turmoil stemming from a divorce, he found himself at odds with his trumpet, which he described as “my enemy.” Seeking guidance, he consulted esteemed New York brass teacher Carmine Caruso, who provided him with pivotal advice: “The trumpet is just a piece of plumbing” and emphasized that “the instrument comes from deep inside you.” This mentorship marked a transformative moment in Alpert’s musical journey.

A Lasting Partnership in Music

In addition to his musical achievements, Alpert co-founded A&M Records with Jerry Moss in 1962. Their partnership, based on a handshake agreement, flourished until they sold the company in 1990—a fact that still evokes strong emotions in Alpert. He recalls their collaboration with deep fondness, often brought to tears by the memory of their shared journey.

Current Endeavors and Future Aspirations

With the newly reformed Tijuana Brass, Alpert remarks that performing once again feels revitalized. He often shares the stage with his wife, Lani Hall, a singer he met through his label’s association with Sergio Mendes and Brasil ’66. “I try to be as authentic as I can when I play,” he shared, emphasizing his desire to connect deeply with the moment. “It’s a hard place to get to. But that’s the place I’m always looking for.”