Most artists have a “Mt. Rushmore” of people who have influenced the work they create, or who have changed their style forever. While many artists may never get the chance to meet anyone on their list, I did. Not only was I fortunate enough to interview Bob James, I was serenaded by him.

James, 82, is a child prodigy who turned out to be the most sampled jazz musician in hip hop history.

Songs as “Nautilus”, “Take Me to the Mardi Gras” and “Westchester Lady” have influenced artists as DJ Jazzy Jeff and The Fresh Prince, Ghostface Killah, Missy Elliott, De La Soul, Warren G and many more.

James is also the instrumentalist behind “Angela”, the theme song for the 1970s sitcom, “Taxi”.

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