Legendary Jazz Drummer Jack DeJohnette Dies at 83

Jack DeJohnette, the revered jazz drummer and pianist, has passed away. He was 83 years old. His death was confirmed by his longtime label, ECM Records. According to The Guardian, the cause was congestive heart failure.DeJohnette was a monumental figure in modern jazz. His work shaped the sound of the genre for over five decades.

A Lifelong Musical Journey from Chicago

DeJohnette was born in Chicago in 1942. His early life was filled with music. His uncle, a radio announcer, provided a constant stream of jazz records.He initially studied classical piano. The drums became his passion after a friend left a kit in his basement. He practiced relentlessly to records by Charlie Parker and Max Roach.His professional career began in Chicago’s vibrant avant-garde scene. He played with the iconic Sun Ra. DeJohnette also had a legendary, impromptu performance with John Coltrane when the band’s drummer was late.

An Architect of Modern Jazz Sound

DeJohnette’s move to New York in the 1960s catapulted his career. He quickly became a sought-after sideman. He played with greats like Sonny Rollins and Thelonious Monk.His most famous collaboration was with Miles Davis. He played on the landmark fusion album “Bitches Brew.” This record changed the trajectory of jazz.Later, he led his own acclaimed groups. He also had a long-standing partnership with pianist Keith Jarrett. His work with ECM Records produced dozens of influential albums.

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The music world has lost a true pioneer. Jack DeJohnette’s rhythmic genius and artistic spirit were unmatched. His legacy will continue to inspire generations of musicians and fans.

Thought you’d like to know

Q1: What was the cause of Jack DeJohnette’s death?

His death was attributed to congestive heart failure. This was confirmed by his personal assistant in a statement to The Guardian. He was 83 years old at the time of his passing.

Q2: What was Jack DeJohnette’s most famous album?

He is perhaps best known for his work on Miles Davis’s “Bitches Brew.” This 1970 album was a landmark in jazz fusion. It revolutionized the genre and brought DeJohnette wider acclaim.

Q3: Did Jack DeJohnette only play the drums?

No, he was also a highly accomplished pianist and composer. He often featured piano in his own band projects. His multi-instrumental talent was a defining feature of his career.

Q4: What record label was he closely associated with?

He had a long and prolific relationship with ECM Records. The German label confirmed the news of his death. He released numerous solo and collaborative albums through them over the decades.

Q5: How did he get his start in jazz?

He began his career in the Chicago jazz and avant-garde scene. He played with Sun Ra and His Arkestra. An impromptu performance with John Coltrane was a key early career moment.