POST # 293 Herbie Hancock on his style

I think the time when I was with Miles Davis — middle period of that time, which is mid-’60s — I began to recognize that I did have my own style. It wasn’t that I could describe it, but I heard a record playing — I remember this experience — I heard a record on the radio, and wondered, when did I do that record? I’m listening and listening, and then I said, “Wait a minute, that’s not me.” Other people told me about my style, but I didn’t know what they were talking about. But when I heard that [song], I could recognize that it was someone who was influenced by me.

If I were to describe my style, or my individuality, I think I have a particular touch that’s mine, on the instrument.