In Memoriam
David Sanborn
July 30, 1945 – May 12, 2024 · aged 78
Jazz · R&B · Pop · Instrumental
David William Sanborn was a phenomenally gifted alto saxophonist whose passionate, searing tone bridged the gap between traditional jazz, R&B, and mainstream pop. Born in Florida in 1945 and raised in Missouri, he contracted polio in his youth and was advised to play the saxophone to strengthen his chest muscles. He developed an incredibly distinctive, crying sound that became the absolute blueprint for contemporary jazz. A prolific session musician, his saxophone elevated legendary tracks by David Bowie ('Young Americans'), Stevie Wonder, Bruce Springsteen, and the Eagles. As a solo artist, he released 24 albums, winning six Grammy Awards and heavily defining the instrumental pop and smooth jazz sound of the 1980s and 90s, while simultaneously acting as a highly respected ambassador for the genre as a television host. After a quiet, multi-year battle with prostate cancer, Sanborn passed away on May 12, 2024, at the age of 78.
Milestones
Maputo, Hideaway, The Dream, Saturday Night Live Band
Also remembered in 2024
- Melanie (Safka) (1947–2024)
- Steve Albini (1962–2024)
- Toby Keith (1961–2024)
- Wayne Kramer (1948–2024)