Jimmy Kimmel Pays Tribute to Cleto Escobedo III
This text is a tribute to Cleto Escobedo, a musician and bandleader, from Jimmy Kimmel. Hear’s a breakdown of the key details:
* Kimmel’s admiration: Kimmel deeply admires Escobedo’s musical talent (a “child prodigy” saxophone player) and his importance to Kimmel’s career.
* Early Career: Escobedo toured with Paula Abdul and released his own album.
* Letterman Influence: Kimmel and Escobedo both grew up watching David Letterman and were heavily influenced by his band (Paul Shaffer). Kimmel specifically wanted Escobedo to lead his band.
* Getting the Band: Kimmel secured Escobedo (and his father, Cleto Escobedo II) for his band on ABC’s late-night show after a successful audition where they performed “Pick Up the Pieces.”
* Long-lasting Partnership: Kimmel and Escobedo have worked together almost every day for nearly 23 years.
* Shared Excitement: Kimmel recalls being so nervous before his first appearance on Late Show with David letterman in 1999 that he called Escobedo to share the excitement.
In essence, the text highlights a long and fruitful professional relationship built on mutual respect, shared influences, and a love for late-night television music.
