[Al Skierkiewicz]

Herbie was one of the first keyboardists to use a small audio console to mix the outputs of his several keyboards to both an ear monitor and to the recording desk during the show. One of my most favorite other performers was Lionel Hampton. When we were setting up his equipment, he offered to give us all a lesson on how to play the vibes. How cool is that? Hamp was always cool and friendly with the crew and made us feel like we were visitors instead of the other way around. At one point he said "when I take a break, the crew takes a break".