Tag Archives: 2026

Cassandra Wilson

On September 2, 2026, Cassandra Wilson died aged 70. She was singer, songwriter and producer, regarded as one of the most successful female jazz singers of all time. Wilson won numerous awards, including two Grammys, and was named in 2001, by “Time Magazine” the best America singer. She recorded and performed with Steve Coleman, Wynton Marsalis, Greg Osby, The Roots, Robin Eubanks, Don Byron, Terence Blanchard, Terri Lyne Carrington, Regina Carter, Olu Dara, Kurt Elling, Bill Frisell, Elvis Costello, Charlie Hade, Dave Holland, Javon Jackson, Angelique Kidjo, M-Base, David Murray, Meshell Ndegeocello, Courtney Pine, David Sanches, Steve Turre, Luther Vandros and Count Basie Orchestra. As leader she released 19 albums.

Dolly Parton

On August 25, 2026, Dolly Rebecca Parton Dean died aged 80. She was singer, composer, actress, philanthropist, and businesswoman, sold more than 100 million records worldwide, making her one of the best-selling music artists ever. Dolly Parton composed more than 3000 songs, and released 49 albums as a leader. During her career, Parton had gained induction into numerous “Halls of Fame”.

Abdullah Ibrahim

On June 15, 2026, Adolph Johannes Brand (Abdullah Ibrahim), previously known as Dollar Brand, died aged 91. He was musician (piano, saxophone, cello), composer and bandleader, especially known for “Mannenberg”, a jazz piece that became a notable anti-apartheid anthem. As leader he released 72 albums.

Dee Palmer

On June 13, 2026, Dee Palmer died aged 88. He was musician (keyboards), composer and arranger, best known as member of Jethro Tull (1976 – 1980). He produced several albums of orchestral arrangements of the music of various bands, including The Beatles, Jethro Tull, Pink Floyd, Genesis, Yes and Queen. As leader Palmer released one album.

Dick Parry

On May 22, 2026, Richard Parry died aged 83. He was musician (saxophone, keyboards), best known for his work with Pink Floyd (played on sone of their best known songs, including “Money”, “Us and Them”, “Shine On You Crazy Diamond” and “Wearing the Inside Out”. As session musician he recorded saxophone for many artists, including J.J. Jackson, Rory Gallagher, Mike Vernon, Pete Wingfield, Quiver, Bonzo Dog Doo-Dah Band, Mick Grabham, Jimmy Dawkins, Lightnin’ Slim, Kazimierz Lux, Andy Roberts, Bloodstone, John Entswile, Les Humphries Singers, Jimmy Witherspoon, Duster Bennett, Paice Ashton Lord, Banco de Gaia, David Gilmour and Deborah Bonham.

Beverley Martin

On April 27, 2026, Beverley Kutner aka Beverley Martin died aged 79. She was musician (guitar), singer and songwriter, member of the band Levee Breakers (The). She recorded and performed with John Martyn, Jimmy Page, Simon & Garfunkel, Levon Helm, Dave Pegg, Richard Thompson, Ralph McTell, John Renbourn, Andy White, John Paul Jones, Nicky Hopkins, Loudon Wainwright III, Wilko Johnson, Sandy Denny and Davy Graham. As leader or co-leader she released five albums (two with John Martyn).