The New Oldies: #6 2024 Album of the Year: Herb Alpert 50

Something seems to be missing these days. It seems that record companies, radio stations, and streaming services are pushing some the great established musicians to the background. As a result these veteran artists are not getting the attention they deserve. Enter the Top 10 Album Countdown: The New Oldies. The main point is simple – to make this list you must have at least 20 years of producing established music. The album by the artist must have been released between November 1st, 2023 and October 31st, 2024

#6 Herb Alpert: 50

On March 31, 2025 Herb Alpert will turn 90 years old. He easily is the oldest artist to ever land on the New Oldies list. Some may not know Alpert, but he has been an absolute monster force in the cigar industry. Best known as a trumpeter, he is also a, pianist, songwriter, record producer, arranger, and conductor. He was the band leader for Herb Alpert and the Tijuana Brass. He is the co-founder of the legendary record label A&M records. We should also add painter and sculptor to his resume as well. While he has worn many hats, it still comes down to him as a musician. In 2024, Alpert would release his 50th album – simply titled 50. On top of that he is touring well past his 90th birthday this year.

The formula for 50 is simple. It’s a eclectic mix of lounge music songs – both uptempo and slow. There are some reimaged classics and some fresh new music mixed in. Alpert doesn’t try to reinvent the wheel, but its a wonderful reflection on a music career that spans 60+ years.

The opening track Dancing Down 50th Street brings you back to the 1960s and captures the vibe of when he was with the Tijuana Brass. Sh-Boom takes you back even easier as he covers this classic track by The Chords with a latin flair to it. He does a beautiful, slightly more contemporary version of Elvis Presley’s Are You Lonesome Tonight? The contemporary sound is really captured nicely on the track Jeannine.

Herb Alpert was always the man with the horn to me – and this permeates throughout the entire 50 album. This is sensational album for a man who doesn’t slow any signs of slowing down. One definitely with checking out