Jan Hammer was born on April 17, 1948, in Prague, Czech Republic. From a young age, he showed a great talent for music, which was not surprising given his family background. His mother was the renowned Czech singer Vlasta Průchová, and his father, although primarily a physician, was also skilled at playing the bass guitar and Vibraphone.
Hammer's musical journey began when he attended the Prague Academy of Musical Arts. His exceptional talent was recognized early on, and he was awarded a scholarship to study at Boston's prestigious Berklee College of Music. However, his time at the Prague Academy was cut short due to the invasion of the Warsaw Pact in 1968, forcing him to leave his studies in Czechoslovakia and start anew in the United States.
Despite the challenges he faced in his early years, Hammer's talent and dedication to music never wavered. He quickly made a name for himself in the music industry and began collaborating with some of the biggest names in the business. His list of collaborators reads like a Who's Who of music greats, including Jeff Beck, Carlos Santana, Elvin Jones, and Stanley Clarke.
One of his most notable collaborations was with Mick Jagger, for whom he recorded the keyboards on the album "She's the Boss" in 1985. His ability to seamlessly blend various musical styles and genres made him a sought-after musician in the industry.
One of Hammer's most iconic works was the creation of the "Miami Vice Theme" and "Crockett's Theme" for the hit 1980s television show "Miami Vice." His unique blend of electronic and traditional music elements perfectly captured the vibe of the show and solidified his status as a musical genius.
He went on to score 90 episodes of "Miami Vice" and 20 episodes of the popular British show "Chancer," showcasing his versatility and ability to adapt to different musical styles and themes. His work on these shows earned him critical acclaim and solidified his place in music history.
Despite his immense success and talent, Jan Hammer remained a humble and down-to-earth individual. He was a devoted husband to his wife Ivona and a loving father to his two children. His passion for music was evident in every note he played, and his dedication to his craft inspired musicians and fans alike.
Jan Hammer's legacy lives on through his timeless music and his influence on the music industry. His unique sound and innovative approach to music continue to inspire artists across the globe, cementing his place as one of the greatest composers of his generation.