The Headhunters presented by WDCB

Formed in 1973, The Headhunters remain a cornerstone of jazz and funk, celebrated for their landmark recordings released during the mid-1970s. Their live performances and recent album releases continue to captivate audiences. Although Herbie has not been present on every tour over five decades, his musical influence deeply shapes Mike Clark and Bill Summersthe co-leaders and lifelong friendswho preserve the groups legacy by crafting enduring, groundbreaking tracks such as Watermelon Man, Chameleon, Butterfly, Sly, and Palm Grease. Their newest release, Live at Garcias Chicago (available October 24th, 2025), reflects the bands five-decade journey in breadth, depth, and innovation. The album records an electrifying live set at Garcias new West Loop venue in Chicagos vibrant West Loop, with Clark and Summers leading. Side one begins with the groups long-running jam 4 String Drive, followed by their 2024 original composition The Stunt Man. Tracks like Warrior Suite and Watermelon Man ground the album in the spiritual foundation Baba Bill has woven into The Headhunters since their 1973 inception. Side two features a contemporary funk take on Bob Marleys I Shot the Sheriff, covers of Thelonious Monks Monks Dream and Chick Coreas Humpty Dumpty, then transitions into an extended percussion dialogue titled Headhunters Drums, completing the eight-track LP. The band will continue touring in 2026, with co-leaders Summers and Clark joined by New Orleans veterans Severin, Clarence Johnson, and Shea Pierre.