American saxophonist Lou Donaldson has died.
The musician passed away over the weekend, with long-time home Blue Note Records confirming his passing. Lou Donaldson was 98 years old, and passed away at home with his family in Badin, North Carolina.
A note from his family confirms:
“The Family of Sweet Poppa Lou Donaldson sadly confirms his death November 9, 2024. A private service will be held. Thank you for your support of Lou and his music throughout his career. Because of you, his legendary contributions to Jazz will live on forever.”
A gutsy saxophonist, Lou Donaldson’s early work was – like so many of his peers – influenced by bebop titan Charlie Parker, although his sound quickly moved towards blues and R&B inclinations. Drawn to New York, he became a fixture on the clubs, before being invited to record for Blue Note Records – eventually becoming one of the defining artists on the stable’s roster.
With a melodic but club-ready sound, Lou Donaldson formed a succession of bands that would arguably define the soul-jazz style – accessible but musically complex, his work would absorb gospel, R&B, and soul, while pursuing its own aims.
His take on ‘Ode To Billie Joe’ was a crossover moment, while albums such as ‘Alligator Boogaloo’ helped to define soul-jazz as a form.
Moving into funk and beyond, Lou Donaldson continued working through the decades, and eventually the world caught up to him – his catalogue was sought-after by a fresh generation of hip-hop producers, eager for fantastic samples.
Officially retiring before the pandemic, Lou Donaldson’s final onstage appearance took place in 2021. He will be much missed.
