Les McCann, Jazz Icon Behind Protest Anthem 'Compared to What,' Passes Away at 88

Photo Credit: F.N. Broers, National Archives of the Netherlands
McCann (left) with the Les McCann Trio (Herbie Lewis & Ron Jefferson), in 1962.

Les McCann, the legendary jazz pianist whose iconic 1969 protest anthem "Compared to What" resonated across genres, has died at the age of 88.

The news, confirmed by his longtime manager, Alan Abrahams, to various media outlets, attributes the cause of death to pneumonia. McCann breathed his last on Friday at a Los Angeles hospital.

A self-taught musician, samples of McCann's dynamic and soulful playing, particularly with his trio, laid the foundation for some of hip-hop's biggest hits. His influence echoes in tracks by The Notorious B.I.G. ("10 Crack Commandments"), A Tribe Called Quest ("After Hours"), Snoop Dogg, Dr. Dre ("The Next Episode"), and more.

Beyond his instrumental prowess, McCann showcased his vocal talents. In 1968, he signed with Atlantic, releasing the rendition of Gene McDaniel's "Compared to What" in collaboration with saxophonist Eddie Harris, a song that remains a powerful protest anthem.

In 1971, McCann participated in the historic "Soul to Soul" concert in Accra, Ghana, alongside R&B and rock luminaries, documented in the film of the same name. Despite facing challenges such as a stroke in the 1990s limiting his keyboard playing, McCann continued to perform.

Born in Lexington, Kentucky, McCann's journey began with a Navy singing contest, leading to an appearance on "The Ed Sullivan Show." Rejecting an offer to join Cannonball Adderley's band, he pioneered soul jazz, merging jazz with funk, soul, and world rhythms.

McCann's legacy extends beyond music; he was the first artist in residence at Harvard University's Learning From Performers program. An avid photographer, his work is featured in the book "Invitation to Openness: The Jazz & Soul Photography of Les McCann 1960-1980."

His prolific discography boast over 60 albums. McCann's final album, "Les McCann — Never a Dull Moment! Live From Coast to Coast 1966-1977," a collection of unreleased live recordings, was released posthumously on Dec. 1, 2023.

Megan Thee Stallion and Planet Fitness Unleash 'Mother Fitness' Campaign for a Healthy New Year

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Grammy-winning rapper Megan Thee Stallion has joined forces with Planet Fitness, one of the largest fitness centers, to launch the "Mother Fitness" initiative. This collaboration not only aims to enhance physical well-being but also seeks to empower communities, eliminate fitness barriers, and raise funds for a meaningful cause.

"Working out is such an integral part of my routine, so this partnership with Planet Fitness genuinely embodies my personal values," expressed Megan Thee Stallion in a statement announcing the collaboration. "We want to encourage everyone to prioritize their physical and mental health heading into the New Year, enabling them to reach new heights in 2024 and continue growing into the best version of themselves."

Megan Thee Stallion for her partnership with Planet Fitness pic.twitter.com/eysBCh4z3j

— Stallion Stats (@MegansStats) December 28, 2023

The "Mother Fitness" campaign spotlights Megan as a fervent advocate for both physical and mental well-being. It encourages individuals to embrace their "Big Fitness Energy" within a supportive and judgment-free environment — a cornerstone value of Planet Fitness.

True to Megan's commitment to philanthropy, the collaboration goes beyond slogans and workouts. An exclusive merchandise line, featuring "Real Hot Girl Fit" bucket hats and "Big Fitness Energy" crewnecks, will be available online. All proceeds will benefit the Pete & Thomas Foundation, Megan's non-profit dedicated to uplifting underserved communities in Houston, Texas, and beyond.

"Music plays a significant role in any fitness routine, so Planet Fitness is thrilled to partner with Megan Thee Stallion to break down the barriers of fitness, encourage everyone to focus on their fitness journeys the 'Judgement Free' way, and channel their Big Fitness Energy," stated Jamie Medeiros, Chief Brand Officer at Planet Fitness. "Megan Thee Stallion embodies all the values of Planet Fitness through her dedication to physical and mental wellness and her powerful message of body positivity, making her an incredible partner for our brand."

The collaboration extends beyond the gym walls, with Megan headlining as the first performer on the Planet Fitness stage at the iconic Dick Clark's New Year's Rockin' Eve with Ryan Seacrest. Additionally, Planet Fitness is committed to making fitness accessible to everyone, offering a special $0.24 down, no-commitment membership deal from December 30th to January 12th.

Watch: Morgan Freeman Narrates 'The Dreamer' Trailer – Dave Chappelle's Netflix Special, Dec. 31

Dave Chappelle has enlisted the legendary Morgan Freeman to narrate the trailer for his upcoming Netflix special, "The Dreamer," scheduled to premiere globally on New Year's Eve.

The Oscar winner sets the stage in the teaser, posing a compelling question to the audience: "What do you dream about? Not the dreams you have in your sleep: the ones you hold in your heart." Freeman's iconic voice invites viewers to peek into the essence of Chappelle's latest creation, encouraging them not to be intimidated by the audacity of their dreams but to find inspiration in them. He playfully notes, "What happens to a dream deferred? Lucky for Dave, he doesn't know."

Filmed at the historic Lincoln Theatre in Chappelle's hometown of Washington, D.C., "The Dreamer" follows the success of 2021's "The Closer" and marks Chappelle's seventh collaboration with Netflix. The teaser offers a tantalizing glimpse into the narrative style and comedic exploration that fans can expect from Chappelle's latest venture.

Emmy Award-winning director Stan Lathan, a longtime collaborator with Chappelle, returns to direct "The Dreamer," ensuring a seamless continuation of their creative partnership.

Chappelle's previous Netflix special, "The Closer," sparked controversy with its candid discussions on transgender issues, leading to a walkout by some Netflix staff members. Despite the uproar, Netflix stood by the Emmy-winning comic, and "The Dreamer" is poised to make its mark on the streaming service.

The Lincoln Theatre in Washington, D.C., serves as the picturesque backdrop for "The Dreamer," where Chappelle's comedic prowess takes center stage. Known for his Emmy-winning Netflix specials like "Sticks & Stones" and "Equanimity & The Bird Revelation," Chappelle has garnered five Emmy Awards and four Grammy Awards for his outstanding contributions to comedy.

Receiving the Pollstar Award for Comedy Tour of the Year in 2023, 2018, and 2014, Chappelle's influence in the entertainment industry is undeniable. In 2019, he received the prestigious Mark Twain Prize for American Humor, further solidifying his status as a comedic icon.

To catch a sneak peek of what's in store, watch the teaser below: