Cassandra Wilson Dies At 70
Two-time Grammy Award-winning jazz singer, songwriter, and producer passes away in her hometown of Jackson, Mississippi, leaving behind a legacy of genre-bending music and collaborations with artists like Steve Coleman and the Roots
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Hinds County coroner Jeramiah Howard confirmed her death.
Story published. Two-time Grammy Award-winning jazz singer, songwriter, and producer passes away in her hometown of Jackson, Mississippi, leaving behind a legacy of genre-bending music and collaborations with artists like Steve Coleman and the Roots
Cassandra Wilson, a two-time Grammy Award-winning jazz singer, songwriter, and producer, has died at the age of 70 in her hometown of Jackson, Mississippi.
Wilson's manager, Robert Torre, announced her death in a statement to WBGO, saying she "transitioned peacefully at home, surrounded by family, close friends, and her manager."
Born on December 4, 1955, Wilson was known for her genre-bending voice and collaborations with various artists across genres, including Steve Coleman, the Roots, and Angelique Kidjo. She won two Grammy Awards for Best Jazz Vocal Performance and Best Jazz Vocal Album, and was named a National Endowment for the Arts jazz master in 2022.
Wilson's music career spanned over three decades, with her debut solo album, Point of View, released in 1986. She went on to release several critically acclaimed albums, including Blue Light 'Til Dawn and Loverly, which earned her a Grammy Award for Best Jazz Vocal Album in 2009. Her last studio album, Coming Forth By Day, was released in 2015.
## Why it matters Cassandra Wilson's death is a significant loss to the music world, particularly the jazz community. Her unique voice and style, which blended elements of blues, gospel, and folk, inspired a generation of musicians and fans. As Jackson Mayor John Horhn said, "Jackson has lost an extraordinary native daughter, and the world has lost a singular musical voice." Wilson's legacy will continue to be felt through her music and the countless artists she collaborated with and inspired.
Wilson's family and close friends have asked for privacy during this difficult time as they grieve her loss. Further information regarding memorial services and arrangements will be shared at a later time.
## What happens next As the music world mourns the loss of Cassandra Wilson, fans and fellow musicians will likely continue to celebrate her life and legacy through her music. With a career spanning over three decades, Wilson leaves behind a rich discography and a lasting impact on the jazz community. Her memory will be honored through the many lives she touched and the music she created, which will continue to inspire and influence future generations of musicians and fans.
