Borders To Publish Tribute To Jazz Legend Lionel Hampton In 'Flying Home'

ANN ARBOR, Mich. (Top 40 Charts/ Borders) - Today, Borders released its latest exclusive title, "Flying Home: Lionel Hampton Celebrating 100 Years of Good Vibes" written by Stanley Crouch with a foreword by Wynton Marsalis. "Flying Home" is a photo retrospective of jazz pioneer Hampton's life, musical talents, famous performances and contributions to society. This beautiful collectors' book comes packaged with an exclusive CD containing some of the never-before released collection of Hampton's best performances. Both the "Flying Home" book and CD are only available at Borders stores across the country beginning today.

"Hampton was one of the most gifted musicians to ever play jazz," said Marsalis in his foreword from "Flying Home." "Hampton was a true improviser with a natural gift for melody. He possessed a dedication and special energy that pushed an already first class talent up into the rarefied air of jazz heaven."

"We are pleased to introduce Lionel Hampton's music and life to a new generation of jazz enthusiasts through Borders' exclusive book and CD," said Rob Gruen, executive vice president of merchandising and marketing for Borders Group, Inc. "Lionel paved the way for so many artists today by being one of the first African-Americans to control his own record label and music. He also gave back to society through his many humanitarian efforts including performing benefit concerts supporting opponents of apartheid during the 50s and building homes for those in need during the 60s."

Hampton played an integral role in breaking the color barrier when he joined Benny Goodman, Teddy Wilson and Gene Krupa to form the Benny Goodman Quartet in 1939. The Quartet fought for equal wages, equal hotel accommodations and equal time on the stage changing music forever and leading the way for the nation in equality for all men.

The April release of "Flying Home" coincides with the centennial of Hampton's birth. Former band mates, fellow jazz legends and those closest to Hampton share their stories and thoughts with journalist and music critic, Crouch. "Flying Home" is filled with pages of rare photos from Hampton's life, concerts, rehearsals and travels highlighting his work as a musician, philanthropist and driving force behind the jazz festival that bears his name - University of Idaho Lionel Hampton/Chevron Jazz Festival.

The "Flying Home" exclusive CD contains eight tracks such as "Vibes Boogie" live, "Midnight Blues," "I Found a New Baby" and the title track, "Flying Home." The CD is only available with the book at all Borders stores nationwide.