According to Rolling Stone, saxophonist and multiple award-winning performer Wayne Shorter, he died at 89. His representatives issued a statement confirming the news and expressing their sadness at his passing.
He was hailed as a “visionary composer, saxophonist, visual artist, devout Buddhist, dedicated husband, father, and grandfather” in the statement. In Los Angeles, he was surrounded by his beloved family at his death.
Shorter had a long and successful career. For his musical achievements, he garnered numerous prizes, including nine Grammy Awards, two Guggenheim Fellowships for composition, and a Pulitzer Prize Special Citations and Awards.
His discography is extensive, with over 50 recordings ranging from Jazz to Brazilian music to Post-Bop. He’s also been an influence on numerous musicians and aspiring jazz players.
Wayne Shorter, a seminal jazz performer and composer died this year. On Twitter, his close friend and collaborator Herbie Hancock paid heartfelt homage to the master artist.
Wayne’s tremendous exploits as a saxophone, composer, orchestrator, and composer of the opera “Iphigenia” were recalled by him. Furthermore, he commended Shorter for always having courage in his heart and affection for everyone around him.
From the 1950s to the present, Shorter’s musical legacy has been immortalized through his collaborations with other jazz greats such as Miles Davis. His influence on the music scene is vividly felt by listeners worldwide, who his compositions will inspire for many years.
Wayne Shorter’s incredible musical career spanned seven decades, beginning in 1956 as a saxophone with the Horace Silver Quintet. Two years later, he got his breakthrough as a composer and saxophonist with Art Blakey’s Jazz Messengers.
Wayne developed a distinct sound with The Jazz Messengers that any other musician did not share at the time. Shorter’s creative work with Miles Davis cemented his place in jazz history, contributing to blockbusters like “Footprints,” “Nefertiti,” and “Prince of Darkness.”
Wayne received 12 Grammy Awards from 23 nominations during his career. Despite his fame throughout the years, he stayed active until his death, pushing limits with his music.
Wayne Shorter, a prominent jazz composer and saxophonist was recently recognized with his final Grammy Award, which will be presented in February 2023. The song “Endangered Species,” written in conjunction with soloist Leo Genovese, was named “Best Improvised Jazz Solo” by the two.
Shorter is survived by his wife, Carolina Dos Santos, and his daughter Mikako whom he wrote the song “Miyako.” His music will be remembered and treasured by many.
