Grammy winning jazz artist George Duke passed away on Monday in Los Angeles. Television channels reported that he was battling with chronic lymphocytic leukemia.
In a statement, his son Rashid Duke told that the outpouring of support and love that they has received from his father’s friends, fans and the whole music community has been quite overwhelming. He also thanked everyone for their concern, support and prayers.
During his fifty year career as a jazz producer and keyboardist, Mr Duke put out over forty albums and co-operated with artists like the Don Ellis Orchestra, Miles Davis, Frank Zappa, Michael Jackson, Smokey Robinson, Dionne Warwick, Natalie Cole and Gladys Knight. DreamWeaver, his final album was released on 16th July and made its debut at number one on Billboard’s contemporary jazz list.
Last year, his Corine died from cancer.
Justin Timberlake Nile Rodgers and several others voiced their sorrow after the death of jazz and funk great George Duke. The news sent a shockwave in the US music industry, and his friends and fans were quick to pay tribute.
Pop superstar Timberlake tweeted: “RIP George Duke. Funk, Jazz, Music legend… One of the greatest,”
In another tweet, he said: “George Duke RIP my co-music director Montreux Jazz (Festival) 2006 – Your funk made us ‘Reach For It’.”
R&B star Baker wrote: “R.I.P. George Duke, legendary jazz/funk keyboardist/producer,”
In her tweet Diane Warren said: “So sorry to hear of the passing of George Duke. Thank U (sic) for the music. Legend.”