Wayne Shorter, a legendary name in the jazz music industry and popularly known for his hits like "Infant Eyes," "Oriental Folk Song," "Dance Cadaverous," and more, has passed away at the age of 89.
According to Billboard, the tragic news was confirmed by a representative of his record label, Blue Note Records. He died on Thursday, March 2nd, in Los Angeles, California.
As of this writing, his family members have yet to share an official statement regarding his passing and the cause of his death remains a mystery.
In a statement, the label's spokesperson noted that Shorter was a "visionary composer" and a good family man, adding, "Wayne Shorter has embarked on a new journey as part of his extraordinary life - departing the earth as we know it in search of an abundance of new challenges and creative possibilities."
At the time of his death, the legendary musician was surrounded by his family. Survivors include his wife Carolina, daughters Mariana and Miyako, and grandson Max.
Before his passing, Shorter was said to be planning and contemplating his next project, a Jazz ballet, but it wasn't revealed whether his plans will push through posthumously in the future.
Wayne Shorter Early Life, Career
Born in Newark, New Jersey, on August 25, 1933, the famed saxophonist graduated from the Newark Arts High School in 1952. He has been fond of music since he was a kid as his father encouraged him to play the clarinet.
He continued pursuing his music career path in college as he took up music education at New York University. Following this, he had to set aside his instrument to serve in the U.S. Army but immediately went back to play with Maynard Ferguson after being discharged two years later.
During the early days of his career, he looked up to some of the most talented jazz musicians like Coleman Hawkins, Sonny Rollins, and John Coltrane.
He later joined the Jazz Messengers by Art Blakely where he played for four years. After spending a long time with the group, he became a musical director and composer.
The jazz band was a hit as they managed to tour in different parts of the world like the United States, Europe, and Japan.
Wayne Shorter became one of the most legendary artists in the field of jazz music over the following decades after his career skyrocketed.
His final achievement was winning the Best Improvised Jazz Solo award at the Grammys last month, making him a 12-time Grammy Award-winning artist.
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