Bennie Maupin

The Profile

American multi-reedist from Detroit (born 1940), renowned for bass clarinet, saxophones, and flute. Worked with Herbie Hancock in the Mwandishi Sextet and The Headhunters, and with Miles Davis from Bitches Brew to On the Corner. As a leader, he debuted with The Jewel in the Lotus (1974) and followed with Slow Traffic to the Right and Moonscapes.

Known for collaborations with Herbie Hancock (Mwandishi, Headhunters) and Miles Davis (Bitches Brew, On the Corner); distinguished on bass clarinet, saxophones, and flute; The Jewel in the Lotus was released on ECM.

A single review portrays The Jewel in the Lotus as a demanding, atmospheric, and avant‑garde-leaning debut. It highlights Herbie Hancock’s pivotal role, Tibetan-tinged textures, minimalism, and strong Coltrane influence. The album rewards repeated listening and is praised as 44 minutes of essential, kaleidoscopic jazz.