As the curtain falls on 2024 and we move into 2025, the jazz world pauses in collective remembrance, mourning the departure of a remarkable cohort of artists whose improvisational genius resonated deeply across generations. These are the musicians who, through their unparalleled artistry and unwavering dedication, not only shaped the sound of jazz but also left an indelible imprint on the broader landscape of music itself. Their passing marks not an ending, but a profound transition, inviting us to reflect on the rich tapestries they wove with their instruments and voices.
Each artist profiled here possessed a unique voice, pushing boundaries and forging new paths within the genre, from the raw, soulful expressions of early innovators to the sophisticated compositions of modern masters. They were architects of sound, storytellers through melody, and beacons of inspiration, influencing countless musicians and captivating audiences worldwide. Their careers, often spanning many decades, tell tales of relentless passion, creative evolution, and an enduring commitment to the art form that defined their lives.
In this first part of our tribute, we begin to honor seven of these extraordinary figures, whose contributions to jazz and global music are both profound and far-reaching. From the vibrant energy of soul jazz to the sophisticated nuances of Canadian jazz and the exhilarating fusion of saxophone and rock, these artists exemplify the diverse and dynamic spirit of a genre that continually reinvents itself. Their legacies will undoubtedly continue to inspire and enchant for many years to come, ensuring that their improvised genius plays on forever.
1. **Les McCann, Pioneer of Soul Jazz (1935-2023)
Les McCann, the visionary pianist and vocalist, departed on December 29, 2023, at the age of 88, though his passing was formally announced in January 2024. He is widely celebrated as the originator of soul jazz, a distinctive and infectious style characterized by its funky, soulful, and bluesy jazz fusion. McCann’s innovative approach to music saw him record an impressive catalogue of over 50 albums throughout a prolific career that spanned 64 years.
While McCann held legendary status within the jazz community, it was his powerful performance and recording of Gene McDaniels’ protest anthem, “Compared to What,” that introduced him to a much wider public. This song, a poignant critique of the Vietnam War, became a defining moment in his career. His rendition, captured live with saxophonist Eddie Harris and trumpeter Benny Bailey at the 1969 Montreux Jazz Festival and subsequently released on the seminal album *Swiss Movement*, achieved crossover success, even charting on the Billboard pop charts.
McCann’s profound influence extended beyond his original compositions and performances. His recordings have been extensively sampled by nearly 300 hip-hop artists, a testament to the enduring appeal and rhythmic depth of his work. Iconic figures in hip-hop such as A Tribe Called Quest, Cypress Hill, De La Soul, the Notorious B.I.G., Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Nas, and Mary J. Blige have all incorporated elements of McCann’s music into their own, cementing his legacy as a foundational figure whose sound transcended genre boundaries and generations.
2. **Marlena Shaw, “California Soul” Singer (1939-2024)
Marlena Shaw, the beloved vocalist best known for her iconic 1969 hit “California Soul,” passed away on January 19, 2024, at the age of 81. Her remarkable career, which spanned six decades, saw her gracefully navigate and enrich both the jazz and R&B genres with her distinctive voice and expressive interpretations. A native of New Rochelle, New York, Shaw’s musical journey began in the vibrant jazz clubs of the early 1960s.
Shaw’s pivotal moment arrived in 1966 when she secured a coveted gig with the Playboy Club in Chicago. This engagement proved to be a significant turning point, as it was there that she encountered representatives from Chess Records, leading to a recording deal that would launch her into wider recognition. She released her first two albums through Chess’s subsidiary, Cadet Records, and it was with this label that she scored her enduring hit, “California Soul,” in 1969.
Throughout her illustrious career, Marlena Shaw released a total of 17 albums, each showcasing her versatility and emotional depth as a singer. Her final album, *Lookin’ for Love*, was released in 2004, a testament to her enduring commitment to her craft. Shaw’s rich, commanding voice and her ability to infuse both jazz standards and R&B tracks with undeniable soul left an indelible mark on listeners and musicians alike, ensuring her place as a cherished voice in American music.
3. **Eleanor Collins, Canada’s First Lady of Jazz (1919-2024)
Eleanor Collins, revered as Canada’s First Lady of Jazz, passed away on March 3, 2024, at the remarkable age of 104, embodying the true essence of a life fully lived. Born on November 21, 1919, in Edmonton, Alberta, Collins embarked on her performing journey in the 1930s after relocating to Vancouver. There, she honed her vocal talents singing with the gospel quartet, Swing Low Quartet, laying the groundwork for her pioneering career.
By the 1950s, Collins made a significant transition into the world of jazz, beginning to perform with the esteemed Ray Norris Quintet. Her captivating stage presence and undeniable talent quickly established her as Vancouver’s first lady of jazz, a title she would proudly carry throughout her career. Her impact, however, was not limited to the stage; she was a trailblazer in the nascent Canadian television industry.
In 1954, Eleanor Collins made her television debut in CBC’s *Bamboula: A Day in the West Indies*, a groundbreaking variety show notable for its mixed-race cast, marking a significant moment in Canadian broadcasting history. Just a year later, her star power led to her headlining her own national television show, *The Eleanor Show*. This achievement made her the first Black woman, person of color, and jazz singer to host her own national television program in Canada, cementing her legacy not only as a musical icon but also as a powerful advocate for diversity and representation in media.
4. **Phil Nimmons, Dean of Canadian Jazz (1924-2024)
Phil Nimmons, widely acclaimed as the elder statesman and Dean of Canadian Jazz, passed away peacefully at home on April 5, 2024, at the venerable age of 100. His extraordinary career spanned more than six decades, during which he became an instrumental figure in the development and promotion of jazz within Canada. Nimmons’ prolific output included composing and arranging over 400 original jazz compositions, showcasing his immense talent and creative versatility.
As a bandleader, Nimmons recorded more than 19 albums for prominent labels such as Verve and RCA, further solidifying his status as a significant force in the jazz world. His compositions were not solely for his own big bands and small groups; he also lent his expertise to film, radio, television, and stage productions, demonstrating the breadth of his artistic contributions. His music often served as a backdrop for various forms of Canadian cultural expression.
Beyond his remarkable artistic achievements, Phil Nimmons was a deeply respected educator and tireless promoter of jazz in Canada. Since the 1950s, he profoundly influenced and mentored generations of musicians, music teachers, and audiences across the country. Through his recordings, radio shows, extensive tours, clinics, workshops, and educational programs in universities and summer camps, Nimmons cultivated a rich environment for jazz education and appreciation, leaving an unparalleled legacy as a guiding light for Canadian jazz.
5. **David Sanborn, The Musician Who Brought the Saxophone Back into Rock ’n Roll (1945-2024)
David Sanborn, the illustrious six-time Grammy Award-winning saxophonist, departed on May 12, 2024, at the age of 78, following a valiant battle with prostate cancer. Sanborn’s journey with the saxophone began in childhood, not merely as a passion but as a therapeutic measure. Advised by his doctor, he started playing at three years old to strengthen his weakened chest muscles and improve his breathing after a debilitating bout with polio, turning adversity into a remarkable musical destiny.
His professional music career took flight at a remarkably young age; by 14, he was already performing alongside blues giants like Albert King and Little Milton. In 1967, he joined the Paul Butterfield Blues Band, further solidifying his early experience in diverse musical settings. Sanborn quickly became one of the most in-demand session players, his distinctive saxophone sound gracing the recordings of an astonishing array of artists.
Throughout his career, David Sanborn collaborated with an incredible roster of musical legends, including James Brown, Eric Clapton, David Bowie, Paul Simon, Al Jarreau, George Benson, Aretha Franklin, and countless others. His ability to seamlessly blend jazz sensibilities with rock, R&B, and pop brought the saxophone to the forefront of popular music, establishing him as a crossover sensation and a truly iconic figure whose passionate playing left an indelible mark on contemporary music.
6. **Jim Rotondi, Respected Trumpeter, Educator, and Composer (1962-2024)
Jim Rotondi, a major figure in the jazz world for over three decades, passed away suddenly in July 2024 at the age of 62. Born James Robert Rotondi in 1962 in Butte, Montana, USA, his musical journey began at the age of 8 with the piano before he switched to the trumpet at 12, an instrument that would define his storied career. Rotondi became renowned for his powerful and precise trumpet playing, contributing significantly to the modern jazz landscape.
Throughout his distinguished career, Rotondi toured extensively with an impressive roster of jazz luminaries, including Ray Charles, Lionel Hampton, Toshiko Akiyoshi, and Eric Alexander, among many others. He was not only a sought-after sideman but also a respected bandleader, heading his own quintet, Full House. Additionally, Rotondi was one of the original members of Eric Alexander’s acclaimed One For All Jazz Sextet, showcasing his versatility and collaborative spirit.
Over the course of his life, Rotondi released 18 studio albums as a leader and appeared on over 85 albums as a studio musician, a testament to his prolific output and widespread respect within the industry. In recent years, he relocated from New York City to Graz, Austria, where he accepted a prestigious teaching position as Professor of Jazz Trumpet at the University of Music and Dramatic Arts, sharing his invaluable knowledge and experience with the next generation of jazz musicians. His sudden passing leaves a void in the jazz community, but his extensive body of work and influence as an educator will continue to inspire.
7. **Russell Malone, Acclaimed Guitarist (1963-2024)
Russell Malone, the acclaimed self-taught guitarist, passed away suddenly on August 23, 2024, at the age of 60, while on tour in Japan with Ron Carter as part of the Golden Striker Trio. Malone burst onto the jazz scene in the late 1980s, first making his mark playing with the legendary organist Jimmy Smith, a formative experience that showcased his innate talent and deep understanding of the genre.
In 1990, Malone’s career reached new heights when he joined forces with Harry Connick Jr., a collaboration that significantly elevated his profile and established him as a major player in the international jazz world. He contributed his sophisticated guitar work to seminal Connick albums, including 1990’s *We Are in Love* and 1991’s *Blue Light Red Light*, leaving an indelible sonic signature on these popular recordings.
Malone was also a frequent collaborator and tour mate of Canada’s own Diana Krall, appearing on eight of her 15 studio albums, including her most recent release, *This Dream of You* (2020). His collaborative spirit extended to working with an impressive list of artists, such as the late David Sanborn, Christian McBride, Will Downing, Natalie Cole, and Benny Green. As a bandleader, Malone released 15 studio albums and contributed as a session player on over 70 albums, a testament to his prolific and versatile career that solidified his status as one of jazz’s most respected and beloved guitarists.
Continuing our tribute to the extraordinary talents who have left us, this section illuminates the legacies of further visionary artists whose contributions have profoundly shaped the landscape of jazz and global music. From celebrated Brazilian innovators to master saxophonists, distinguished pianists, and architects of sound, to pioneering drummers and flugelhorn virtuosos, these individuals pushed artistic boundaries and forged new paths, leaving behind a rich tapestry of musical brilliance. We conclude with the indelible influence of neo-soul vibraphonists, focusing on their later career highlights, enduring impact, and final, irreplaceable contributions to the world of music.
8. **Sérgio Mendes, Brazilian Innovator of Bossa Nova (1941-2024)
Sérgio Mendes, widely regarded as one of the most significant Brazilian and Latin Jazz artist-composers of our time, passed away on September 5, 2024, at the age of 83. His death was attributed to health complications stemming from long COVID, silencing a voice that had vibrated through the music world for decades. Mendes’ journey saw him move to Los Angeles in 1964, where he formed Sergio Mendes & Brasil ’65, releasing initial albums through Capitol Records and Atlantic Records.
Initially, Mendes’ music was performed exclusively in Portuguese. However, facing lower album sales, he strategically recruited American singers Lani Hall and Bibi Vogel. This led to the renaming of his band to Brasil ’66 and the release of the seminal album, *Herb Alpert Presents Sérgio Mendes & Brasil ’66*. This album notably featured the crossover hit “Mas que Nada,” which achieved monumental success as the first Portuguese song to become a hit in America, introducing bossa nova to a mainstream audience.
Mendes’ prolific career spanned over four decades, during which he released more than 40 albums. His collaborative spirit was vast, extending to iconic artists such as Herb Alpert, the Black Eyed Peas, Stevie Wonder, India.Arie, and Erykah Badu. Mendes’ innovative blend of Brazilian rhythms with jazz and pop sensibilities not only earned him global recognition but also inspired countless musicians, cementing his legacy as a true pioneer.
9. **Benny Golson, Master Saxophonist (1929-2024)
Benny Golson, a titan of the saxophone, passed away on September 21, 2024, at his home in Manhattan. Born in Philadelphia on January 25, 1929, Golson began his musical journey on the piano at age nine before transitioning to the saxophone as a teenager. His formative years were spent alongside childhood friends who would also become jazz legends, including John Coltrane, Red Garland, Philly Joe Jones, and the Heath Brothers (Jimmy and Percy), all students at Benjamin Franklin High School.
Throughout his distinguished career, Golson showcased remarkable prolificacy and versatility. He recorded over 50 albums as a bandleader and with the influential group, the Jazztet. Beyond his leadership roles, he also contributed to more than 40 albums as an esteemed arranger and sideman, demonstrating his profound impact across numerous jazz productions.
Golson is celebrated for his iconic compositions, many of which have become jazz standards. These include enduring recordings such as “Moanin,” “Whisper Not,” “Stablemates,” “Along Came Betty,” and “Killer Joe,” each a testament to his inventive melodic and harmonic genius. His final album, *Horizon Ahead*, released in 2016, concluded a recording career that left an indelible mark on the jazz canon.
10. **Lou Donaldson, Pioneering Alto Saxophonist (1926-2024)
Lou Donaldson, a pioneering alto saxophonist, passed away on November 9, 2024, at the age of 98. He is widely credited for his role as an originator of “soul jazz,” skillfully blending jazz with genres like soul and bebop. This innovative approach was instrumental in prompting the ascent of the “Hard Bop” Revolution that defined the jazz sound of the 1950s and 1960s. Entirely self-taught, Donaldson honed his craft by diligently listening to music on the radio, regularly attending various clubs, and joining a jazz band that included notable musicians such as trumpeters Clark Terry and Wendell Culley, and saxophonist Ernie Wilkins.
Donaldson was celebrated for his deeply soulful approach to jazz, making him a true pioneer in jazz fusion. His unique style often saw him seamlessly blending the raw energy of the blues with the sophisticated structures of bebop. His most renowned works include the 1967 hit “Alligator Bogaloo,” “Pot Belly,” and his distinctive rendition of Bobbie Gentry’s “Ode to Billie Joe,” a recording that significantly propelled him into mainstream recognition.
The enduring impact of Donaldson’s music is powerfully illustrated by the extensive sampling of his work. His version of “Ode to Billie Joe” has been sampled over 200 times by a diverse array of hip-hop artists, including prominent figures such as Kanye West, Lauryn Hill, A$AP Rocky, and A Tribe Called Quest. This widespread adoption in contemporary music solidifies his legacy as a foundational artist whose sound transcends genre boundaries and continues to inspire.
11. **Quincy Jones, Music’s Greatest Architect (1933-2024)
Quincy Jones, often hailed as music’s greatest architect, passed away peacefully at home on November 3, 2024, at the age of 91. While widely celebrated for his monumental work in shaping the pop music genre, notably producing Michael Jackson’s masterpieces *Off the Wall* and *Thriller* and collaborating with legends like Frank Sinatra, Jones’ musical roots were firmly planted in jazz. He developed his skills as a trumpeter and arranger during his time at Garfield High School, where a pivotal encounter with a 16-year-old Ray Charles deeply inspired his burgeoning jazz career.
Jones’ academic pursuits led him to Seattle University and later Berklee College of Music. However, a significant opportunity arose in 1953 when he left his studies to tour as a trumpeter and pianist with the esteemed vibraphonist and bandleader Lionel Hampton. During this period, Jones diligently honed his arranging prowess, crafting arrangements for an impressive roster of artists including Sarah Vaughn, Dinah Washington, Count Basie, Duke Ellington, and Ray Charles, showcasing his burgeoning talent and versatility.
His global exposure deepened in the 1950s as he toured extensively across Europe, leading several orchestras and studying under legendary music teachers Nadia Boulanger and Olivier Messiaen. It was during this period that Jones had a profound realization about the music industry, eloquently articulated in an interview with Ralph J. Gleason: “’We had the best jazz band on the planet, and yet we were literally starving. That’s when I discovered that there was music, and there was the music business,’ Jones recalled, ‘If I were to survive, I would have to learn the difference between the two.’” His passing marks the end of an era for an artist who not only mastered music but also redefined its business, leaving an unparalleled legacy that spans genres and generations.
12. **Roy Haynes, Modern Jazz Drumming Pioneer (1925-2024)
Roy Haynes, a true pioneer of modern jazz drumming, passed away on November 12, 2024, at the age of 99. His illustrious career began in 1942, playing as a sideman in Boston’s vibrant jazz club circuit. His professional journey gained significant momentum in 1945 when he moved to New York City at the invitation of bandleader Luis Russell. From that point, Haynes became one of the most sought-after drummers, gracing the stages and recordings of virtually every jazz giant, including Lester Young, Louis Armstrong, Miles Davis, Sarah Vaughan, Charlie Parker, Sonny Rollins, Billie Holliday, John Coltrane, and Thelonious Monk. It was during this era that he earned his evocative nickname, “Snap Crackle,” a testament to his distinctive and dynamic drumming style.
Haynes’ innovative spirit was evident in his 1971 album, *Hip Ensemble*, which brilliantly blended jazz, rock, and funk elements, foreshadowing a sub-genre later recognized as avant-garde jazz. He released over 30 albums as a bandleader, with his final album, *Roy-Alty*, appearing in 2011. Even as a nonagenarian, Haynes continued to perform as a sideman throughout the 1970s, 80s, and 90s, touring with acclaimed musicians such as Chick Corea, Pat Metheny, and Kenny Barron, demonstrating an incredible longevity and unwavering dedication to his craft.
Beyond his musical prowess, Roy Haynes was also renowned for his impeccable fashion sense, a trait that earned him the prestigious title of Best Dressed Man of the Year by Esquire Magazine in 1960. In the 2000s, he further cemented his legacy by founding the jazz group Fountain of Youth, which nurtured emerging talents including contemporary saxophonist Marcus Strickland. Haynes continued playing well into his early nineties, establishing a storied career that spanned an astonishing 70 years, leaving an unparalleled rhythmic and stylistic imprint on the world of jazz.
13. **Chuck Mangione, Celebrated Flugelhorn and Trumpet Virtuoso (1940-2025)
Chuck Mangione, the celebrated flugelhorn and trumpet virtuoso, passed away peacefully in his sleep at his Rochester, New York, home on July 22, 2025, at the age of 84. A prolific composer and performer, Mangione released 30 albums throughout his career, which began when he started taking music lessons at just eight years old. During his high school years, he played in a jazz combo with his pianist brother, Gap, forming the foundational group known as The Jazz Brothers.
After graduating from the Eastman School of Music in 1963 with a bachelor’s degree in music education, Mangione later returned to teach and direct the school’s jazz ensemble. His early career saw him join Art Blakey and the Jazz Messengers. A concert with the Rochester Philharmonic proved pivotal, leading to his first recording contract with a major label, Mercury Records, and an early Grammy nomination.
Mangione’s breakthrough into mainstream success arrived with his 1977 single “Feels So Good,” which soared to No. 4 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The accompanying album of the same name reached No. 2 on the Billboard albums chart in 1978, a remarkable feat second only to the *Saturday Night Fever* soundtrack. Music critic Malcolm X Abram noted, “’Chuck Mangione’s soothing signature tune, ‘Feels So Good,’ made folks of a certain generation feel darn good.’ Abram continued, ‘Mangione was from a time when a low-key melodic instrumental could still be a top 5 billboard hit.’” He also composed “Chase The Clouds Away” for the 1976 Summer Olympics and “Give It All You Got,” the theme for the 1980 Winter Olympics in Lake Placid, where he performed it at the closing ceremonies.
His artistic excellence was further recognized with two Grammy Awards: the first in 1977 for his album “Bellavia,” named in honor of his mother, and a second in 1979 for “The Children of Sanchez,” which also garnered a Golden Globe nomination. Beyond his musical achievements, Mangione found unexpected fame through the animated television series *King of the Hill*, where “Feels So Good” became a recurring comedic element and he appeared as a voice actor, introducing his distinctive sound to new generations as a celebrity spokesman for Mega Lo Mart.
Mangione’s enduring impact on American music was formally acknowledged when he donated memorabilia to the Smithsonian National Museum of American History in 2009. This collection included his signature brown felt hat, musical scores, photographs, albums, and even animation cells from *King of the Hill*. His music, celebrated globally and voted as the all-time number one song by smooth jazz stations in Poland, truly made jazz joyful and hearts lighter.
14. **Roy Ayers, Noted Vibraphonist and Composer (1940-2025)
Roy Ayers, the noted vibraphonist and composer often referred to as the “Godfather of Neo-Soul,” passed away on March 4, 2025, in New York City, at the age of 84, following a prolonged illness. His family announced his death via a statement on his Facebook page, acknowledging his “beautiful 84 years” and confirming plans for a memorial service to be held in his honor.
A native of Los Angeles, California, Ayers gained widespread fame for his 1976 classic “Everybody Loves the Sunshine.” This iconic song stands as one of the most frequently sampled tunes in music history, securing its place at number 72 on Pitchfork’s list of the top 200 songs of the 1970s. Its enduring appeal is evident in its over 130 million streams on Spotify and covers by notable artists, including D’Angelo.
Born into a musical family, Ayers’ journey into music began at a remarkably young age. He was just five years old when he witnessed vibraphonist Lionel Hampton perform, an experience he recalled as Hampton laying “spiritual vibes” on him. His professional career launched in the early 1960s after he received a vibraphone as a gift at 17. Ayers further refined his skills studying advanced music theory at Los Angeles City College before signing with United Artists and releasing his debut studio album, *West Coast Vibes*, in 1963.
By the 1970s, Ayers had masterfully transitioned from a post-bop jazz artist to a pioneering figure in jazz-funk with his band, Roy Ayers Ubiquity. During this period, “Everybody Loves the Sunshine” became his undeniable signature track. Over a career spanning more than four decades, Ayers released close to 50 albums, with 12 of them making it onto the Billboard 200, and his 1978 album *You Send Me* topping the charts.
Ayers played a crucial role in integrating electric instruments, rock and R&B rhythms, and soulful elements into jazz, thereby pioneering a funkier version of the genre. His significant contributions were recognized with a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Congress of Racial Equality in 2011. His influence extends deeply into contemporary hip-hop and R&B, with artists like Pharrell Williams citing him as a major inspiration. His compositions have been extensively sampled by a wide range of artists, including Mary J. Blige, J. Cole, and Snoop Dogg, with Ayers noting, “’I’m happy to say that I never had to go to anyone to ask them to sample me,’ he said. ‘They just started doing it. It’s been wonderful hearing people put their own spin on my sounds.’” Music experts observe that “Everybody Loves the Sunshine” alone has been sampled nearly 200 times by hip-hop artists, positioning him as one of the most sampled musicians in history, potentially second only to James Brown. In the 1990s, Ayers was further acknowledged as a major innovator of the acid jazz movement, solidifying his diverse musical legacy. He continued to collaborate with artists throughout his career, including significant work with Nigerian musician Fela Kuti and neo-soul pioneer Erykah Badu, demonstrating his versatility with the vibraphone, electric piano, and synthesizer. His work also extended to film, composing the score for the 1973 Blaxploitation film *Coffy* and appearing in the documentary *Summer of Soul*. Despite his advancing years, Ayers remained active, performing live until 2023 and collaborating with contemporary artists such as Kanye West and Tyler, the Creator. Following his death, fans paid tribute to Ayers on social media, universally describing him as a “true innovator” and “incomparable.” He is survived by his wife, Argerie, and their children, Mtume and Ayana Ayers.
As these incredible artists take their final bows, their music does not fade into silence. Instead, it echoes, resonates, and continues to shape the future of sound. The legacies of these jazz legends—Sérgio Mendes, Benny Golson, Lou Donaldson, Stacie McGregor, Quincy Jones, Roy Haynes, Chuck Mangione, and Roy Ayers, alongside the many others we remember—serve as an enduring testament to the power of improvisation, the beauty of collaboration, and the profound impact of artistic genius. Their innovative spirits and groundbreaking contributions ensure that the vibrant tapestry of jazz will forever bear their indelible imprints, inviting new generations to discover and cherish the timeless melodies they gifted to the world.
