Now he's got a new gig as creative jazz chair of the Los Angeles Philharmonic. In that capacity, he'll be responsible for programming jazz concerts at the Walt Disney Concert Hall and the Hollywood Bowl, bringing in guest artists and possibly commissioning new pieces.
So what are some keys to the professional success and longevity of Hancock, who turned 70 in April and seems as occupied as ever?
Well, one of them is: Study your math and science. As a self-described techie," Hancock says his lifelong embrace of electronic experimentation has helped him stay on top as well as take advantage of evolving musical developments.
Here's part of what he had to say on the subject during a recent interview at his Westside home: