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Chick Corea was an influential and highly acclaimed American jazz pianist and composer who made significant contributions to the world of jazz and fusion music. Here are some interesting facts about Chick Corea and his iconic composition "Spain":

1. Early Life and Education:

   • Chick Corea was born Armando Anthony Corea on June 12, 1941, in Chelsea, Massachusetts, USA.
   • He began playing the piano at the age of four and showed an early interest in music.

2. Versatility in Music:

   • Chick Corea was known for his versatility as a musician. He explored various genres, including jazz, classical, fusion, and Latin music.

3. Formation of Return to Forever:

   • Corea was a key figure in the jazz fusion movement of the 1970s. He formed the influential jazz fusion band Return to Forever in 1971.

4. Spain - Iconic Composition:

   • "Spain" is one of Chick Corea's most famous compositions. It was originally recorded in 1972 with Return to Forever for their album "Light as a Feather."

5. Inspiration for "Spain":

   • The inspiration for "Spain" came from Corea's love for the Spanish composer Joaquín Rodrigo and his famous composition "Concierto de Aranjuez."

6. Musical Influences:

   • Chick Corea drew inspiration from a wide range of musical influences, including classical composers, jazz legends like Miles Davis, and the Latin music tradition.

7. Achievements and Awards:

   • Corea received a total of 23 Grammy Awards, making him one of the most awarded artists in the history of the Grammys.

8. Electric Jazz Pioneering:

   • Corea played a crucial role in popularizing the use of electric instruments in jazz, contributing to the development of the jazz fusion genre.

9. Collaborations:

   • Throughout his career, Chick Corea collaborated with numerous renowned musicians, including Miles Davis, Herbie Hancock, Stanley Clarke, and Al Di Meola.

10. Innovation in Keyboards:

    • Corea was an early adopter of synthesizers and electric keyboards, contributing to the evolution of keyboard technology in the context of jazz and fusion music.

11. Legacy:

    • Chick Corea's impact on the world of jazz and music, in general, is immeasurable. His innovative approach to composition and performance left a lasting legacy, influencing generations of musicians.

Chick Corea passed away on February 9, 2021, but his contributions to music continue to be celebrated and remembered.