Saxophonist David Sanborn, one of the most influential musicians on the instrument and who was successful in the pop, R&B and jazz genres, died last Sunday (12), aged 78. The information was published on his profile on social media.
“It is with a heavy and sad heart that we inform you of the loss of internationally renowned saxophonist and six-time Grammy winner, David Sanborn,” the publication’s caption reads. “Mr. Sanborn died on Sunday afternoon (12) after a long battle with cancer.”
Sanborn's publicist confirmed the publication's information to CNN .
The saxophonist was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2018. He continued performing until recently.
“He already had performances scheduled until 2025,” the statement continues. “David Sanborn was one of the artists central to the creation of contemporary jazz and pop. He is even known as the person responsible for 'putting the saxophone back into Rock n Roll'.”
Born in Tampa, Florida in the United States, Sanborn grew up in Missouri. He began playing the saxophone as part of his recovery after contracting polio at age 3, according to his official website.
“At the age of 14, he managed to play with legends like Albert King and Little Milton,” the artist’s biography continues. “David went on to study music at Northwestern University before transferring to the University of Iowa, where he studied and played with the great saxophonist JR Monterose.”
Sanborn then joined the Butterfield Blues Band and played at Woodstock with Paul Butterfield. His career advanced when the saxophonist toured with Stevie Wonder recording the album “Talking Book” with the musician.
Sanborn also played with the Rolling Stones and went on tour with David Bowie . Sanborn's solo on Bowie's “Young Americans” was a big highlight.
His other collaborations include artists such as Paul Simon and James Taylor.
His first solo album, “Taking Off”, was released in 1975. The sequel, “Hideaway”, was released four years later. The other albums featured collaborations with names like Luther Vandross, Christian McBride and Eric Clapton .
The music “All I Need Is You ” secured the first Grammy for David Sanborn. He received the gramophone for Best R&B Instrumental Performance in 1981. He then went on to win five more Grammy Awards, eight gold albums, one platinum album, and the ability to tour lucratively for decades.
In March 2024, Sanborn was honored with a Contribution to Jazz Award in St. Louis. “I am so happy and incredibly honored to receive this award in my hometown of St. Louis,” the musician said at the time.
Source: CNN Brasil
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