The warmth and talent of one of jazz's all time greats is ever present throughout this edition of Marian McPartland’s Piano Jazz. With exceptional musical versatility and over sixty golden years in jazz at the time of this recording, Lionel Hampton enlivens the program with his joyous personality and vast legacy. In addition to taking to the vibraphone to jam with Marian McPartland on “Teach Me Tonight” and his own classic, “Flying Home,” Hamp effortlessly switches to piano to sing and play “Sweet Georgia Brown” and “Mack the Knife.” In between the compelling music performances, Lionel talks candidly and insightfully about his life in jazz, including the first time the vibraphone appeared on a jazz record and the beginnings of the famous Benny Goodman Quartet.