David Sanborn, a saxophone icon known for his work on David Bowie’s hit “Young Americans,” passed away at the age of 78. The news was announced on his official social media accounts. In 2018, Sanborn was diagnosed with prostate cancer, but he continued performing until recently, with live appearances booked into 2025. The statement by Sanborn’s representatives described him as a “seminal figure in contemporary pop and jazz music.” According to them, he “put the saxophone back into Rock ‘n Roll.’ Sanborn was awarded 6 Grammy Awards in his career.
Sanborn was born in Tampa, Florida, and raised in Missouri. Playing the saxophone, he took an interest in music early in his life. At the age of 14, he was performing with prominent figures such as Albert King and Little Milton. Sanborn earned a degree in music from Northwestern University before transferring to the University of Iowa. There he played and studied with the famous saxophonist JR Monterose. Butterfield Blues Band was the first band for which Sanborn performed. He played at Woodstock with the band’s frontman, Paul Butterfield. Later on, Sanborn toured with Stevie Wonder, played with The Rolling Stones, and went on tour with David Bowie. He also recorded with Paul Simon and James Taylor, collaborating with other famous musicians.
Sanborn’s first solo album, “Taking Off,” came out in 1975. He followed up with “Hideaway” in 1979. Sanborn’s other albums included contributions from several artists like Luther Vandross, Christian McBride, and Eric Clapton. Following Sanborn’s death, Bowie’s estate said it was “sad” to learn of the loss of the saxophonist known for his “sublime” work on Bowie’s albums “Young Americans” and “David Live.”
Sanborn’s passing has elicited emotional responses from people, including his colleagues and fans. Many fans and supporters have posted their tributes on Twitter. Ear Slick, an American guitarist, tweeted a message that said simply, “RIP DAVID SANBORN.” Nate Smith, an American drummer, tweeted his condolences to Sanborn’s family and friends. Don Breithaupt, a Canadian composer, tweeted, “David Sanborn, a searingly brilliant musician capable of joyous intensity, gentle melancholy, and everything in between, has died.
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