6. Samba Delight

I spend a lot of time in Brazil and it has become a kind of spiritual and musical home for me.

This is my first recorded samba, which is something that many of my Brazilian fans have been requesting for a long time.

I played all the accompaniments with a pick for a punchier rhythmic effect, but I used the touch technique for the solo for a fuller texture.

I loved the blend of Ronnie Laws on soprano sax and Regina Carter on violin. Regina's tone is pure and sweet, and her improvisations created just the right vibe. Ronnie is a remarkable and versatile musician who is at the crossroads of many musical worlds. When I showed him this tune he remarked on how much he liked it, which felt really good to hear because I composed it with him in mind!