David Sanborn, the Grammy award-winning saxophonist known for his success across pop, R&B, jazz, and more, passed away on Sunday at the age of 78.
A statement on his social media accounts announced, “It is with sad and heavy hearts that we convey to you the loss of internationally renowned, 6-time Grammy Award-winning saxophonist, David Sanborn. Mr. Sanborn passed Sunday afternoon, May 12th, after an extended battle with prostate cancer with complications.”
Diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2018, Sanborn continued to perform until recently, with concerts scheduled into 2025.
The statement added, “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.’”
Born in Tampa, Florida, and raised in Missouri, Sanborn began playing the saxophone as part of his recovery after contracting polio at age three, according to his website.
“By the age of 14, he was able to play with legends such as Albert King and Little Milton,” his biography states. Sanborn studied music at Northwestern University before transferring to the University of Iowa, where he played and studied with the great saxophonist JR Monterose.
Sanborn joined the Butterfield Blues Band and played Woodstock with Paul Butterfield. His career flourished as he toured with Stevie Wonder, recorded on Wonder’s “Talking Book” album, played with The Rolling Stones, and toured with David Bowie.
His solo on Bowie’s “Young Americans” was particularly notable. Sanborn also collaborated with Paul Simon and James Taylor.
He released his debut solo album, “Taking Off,” in 1975, followed by “Hideaway” four years later. His albums featured contributions from artists like Luther Vandross, Christian McBride, and Eric Clapton.
Sanborn won his first Grammy Award for best R&B instrumental performance in 1981 for “All I Need Is You.” He went on to win five more Grammys, earn eight gold albums, one platinum album, and tour successfully for decades.
In March 2024, Sanborn was honored in St. Louis for his lifetime achievement in jazz.
“I’m so glad I am alive to receive this,” Sanborn said at the time. “I am deeply grateful and amazingly honored to receive this award in my hometown of St. Louis.”
