Renowned saxophonist David Sanborn, who played with the likes of Davie Bowie and Stevie Wonder, has died aged 78.
A statement on his page announced the news of his death, after being diagnosed with prostate in 2018.
It said: ‘It is with sad and heavy hearts that we convey to you the loss of internationally renowned, 6 time Award-winning, saxophonist, David Sanborn.
‘Mr. Sanborn passed Sunday afternoon, May 12th, after an extended battle with prostate cancer with complications.
‘Mr. Sanborn had been dealing with prostate cancer since 2018, but had been able to maintain his normal schedule of concerts until just recently. Indeed he already had concerts scheduled into 2025.
‘David Sanborn was a seminal figure in contemporary pop and jazz music. It has been said that he “put the saxophone back into Rock ’n Roll.”’
Friends and fans alike paid their respects in the comments, with American jazz saxophonist Gerald Albright writing: ‘A true blessing to have known David. He will be greatly missed as a dynamic icon and friend, and through his music. Rest well, my dear friend!’
Radio host Eric Alper remembered him as ‘one of the greatest saxophonists ever’, writing: ‘David Sanborn has died at age 78. His collaboration with David Bowie on “Young Americans,” and Stevie Wonder on Songs in the Key of Life and his many appearances on The Late Show with David Letterman earned him a well-deserved reputation as one of the greatest saxophonists ever.’
Sanborn, who was born in Tampa, Florida, and grew up in Missouri, reportedly began playing the saxophone when he was recovering from polio aged three.
As an adult, his career took off when touring with Stevie Wonder, recording on his Talking Book album, playing with The Rolling Stones and touring with David Bowie, with whom he recorded the famous sax solo on Young Americans.
Sanborn won his first Grammy Award for best R&B instrumental performance in 1981 for All I Need Is You.
He won five more Grammys and in March this year was honoured for his lifetime achievement in jazz.
He also recorded with Bruce Springsteen, Elton John, Chaka Khan, Billy Joel,Aretha Franklin and more over his renowned career.
