Jazz pianist and Nea Jazz Master Ramsey Lewis died in his Chicago home at the age of 87, his family announced via Facebook on Sept. 12. As of this writing, there is no word regarding his cause of death.
The decorated jazz musician's loyal fanbase mourns his death, as does his family. His wife, Janet penned her thanks to the fans who supported the pianist, "Ramsey's passion for music was truly fueled by the love and dedication of his fans across the globe."
"He loved touring and meeting music lovers from so many cultures and walks of life,"
"It was our family's great pleasure to share Ramsey in this special way with all those who admired his God-given talents. We are forever grateful for your support," she wrote.
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The Beginning of 'God-given talents'
Lewis started playing the piano at the age of four, and played the instrument for church, where his father was the choir director.
What he did not know was that he was going to grow into a legend in the jazz genre, reportedly recording over 80 albums, and winning three Grammy Awards.
During his freshman year in high school, he was invited to be part of a band called the Clefs. The band mostly performed a blend of jazz and R&B.
This was when the ball started rolling for Lewis in the jazz music industry. He and two other Clef members formed the Ramsey Lewis Trio.
"I actually owe my beginning to a guy named Daddy O'Daly, who was a big jazz DJ in Chicago at that time," Lewis shared in an interview recorded by John Abbey in "Blues & Soul" back in 1975.
O'Daly got Lewis and his bandmates, who were called Ramsey Lewis and the Gentlemen of Jazz, a contract with Leonard Chess, and the rest was history.
Lewis' family noted his success in incorporating different genres of music, as he embraces R&B, pop, and Latin music.
Even in his 80s, Lewis still managed to remain relevant and connect with the younger generations. According to the Facebook post, the pianist's "Saturday Salon" Livestream series was "critically acclaimed," his wife said.
Accolades
However, there is no denying that he was best known for jazz. He was awarded five honorary doctorate degrees as well as being named an NEA Jazz Master, and won NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Jazz Artist.
In 2007, he was given the Legendary Landmark Award for being "one of the living treasures of Illinois."
Lewis rose further into prominence in 1965 with the release of his chart-topping singles "The In Crowd," Wade in the Water," and "Hang On Sloopy."
In 1965, Lewis won his first Grammy Award for Best Jazz Performance under the small group or soloist with a small group category for "The In Crowd."
His next Grammy Award came in 1966. He won Best Rhythm and Blues Group Performance - Vocal or Instrumental for "Hold It Right There."
In 1973, he won his third Grammy Award for Best Rhythm and Blues Instrumental Performance for "Hang On Sloopy."
At the same time, his songs were also getting RIAA certifications. "The In Crowd" (1965), "Hang On Ramsey" (1966), "Wade in the Water" (1966), "Sound of Christmas" (1968), and "Sun Goddess" (1976) all received RIAA Gold certifications.
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