David Sanborn Obituary, Death: Grammy-Winning Saxophonist Dies at 78 After Brave Battle with Prostate Cancer
David Sanborn, the renowned saxophonist who left an indelible mark on modern pop and jazz, has passed away at the age of 78. His representative confirmed the news to ABC News, stating that Sanborn succumbed to complications from a long-standing battle with prostate cancer.
Sanborn’s official Facebook page shared the devastating news, remembering him as a six-time Grammy Award-winning saxophonist who “placed the saxophone back into Rock ‘n Roll.” With a career spanning decades, Sanborn’s impact on jazz, pop, rock, and R&B was immense, collaborating with some of music’s greatest musicians.
Born in 1945, Sanborn’s music journey began with his debut album “Taking Off” in 1975, which reached the top 20 on the Billboard Jazz Albums chart. He went on to win six Grammys and achieve RIAA Gold and Platinum albums. Sanborn’s collaborations include working with David Bowie on his 1975 album “Young Americans,” James Taylor on four albums, including “How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved By You),” and with Eric Clapton and Sting on the 1992 hit single “It’s Probably Me” from the soundtrack to “Lethal Weapon 3.”
Sanborn’s impressive discography also includes recordings with Roger Daltrey, Stevie Wonder, Paul Simon, Bruce Springsteen, Elton John, Carly Simon, Billy Joel, Steely Dan, James Brown, The Rolling Stones, the Grateful Dead, and the Eagles, among many others. His contributions to music are a testament to his talent and dedication.
Despite his battle with prostate cancer since 2018, Sanborn continued to perform and schedule concerts until recently. His passing leaves a void in the music world, but his legacy will live on through his incredible body of work.
Sanborn’s family and friends are in our thoughts during this difficult time. We remember him for his incredible talent, his passion for music, and the indelible mark he left on the industry.
