Grammy Award-winning keyboardist and composer Chick Corea has died aged 79.
The highly influential jazz musician died from a rare form of cancer, with the news being announced on his official Facebook page.
The statement reads: ‘It is with great sadness we announce that on February 9th, Chick Corea passed away at the age of 79, from a rare form of cancer which was only discovered very recently.
‘Throughout his life and career, Chick relished in the freedom and the fun to be had in creating something new, and in playing the games that artists do.He was a beloved husband, father and grandfather, and a great mentor and friend to so many.
‘Through his body of work and the decades he spent touring the world, he touched and inspired the lives of millions.
‘Though he would be the first to say that his music said more than words ever could, he nevertheless had this message for all those he knew and loved, and for all those who loved him: “I want to thank all of those along my journey who have helped keep the music fires burning bright. It is my hope that those who have an inkling to play, write, perform or otherwise, do so. If not for yourself then for the rest of us. It’s not only that the world needs more artists, it’s also just a lot of fun.
‘“And to my amazing musician friends who have been like family to me as long as I’ve known you: It has been a blessing and an honor learning from and playing with all of you. My mission has always been to bring the joy of creating anywhere I could, and to have done so with all the artists that I admire so dearly—this has been the richness of my life.”
‘Chick’s family will of course appreciate their privacy during this difficult time of loss.’
Corea was best known for compositions including La Fiesta and 500 Miles High.
The star began his career in the early 60s with the likes of Mongo Santamaria, Willie Bobo, Blue Mitchell, Herbie Mann, and Stan Getz.
In the 70s, he began working with fellow iconic jazz fusion musician, Herbie Hancock.
Over the course of his career, he won 23 Grammy Awards and was nominated 60 times.
Tributes have poured in for the late musician, with one fan writing: ‘I just read about Chick Corea. Met him in 97 when he headlined a music festival I was producing in Gainesville FL.
‘A very warm personality and encyclopedia of music history and theory. A fantastic teacher and of course one of the greatest jazz pianists ever.’
Another added: ‘RIP #ChickCorea. An icon, a legend, a master,’ while one more said: ‘RIP to a jazz legend and musical genius. Thank you for the music, @ChickCorea.’
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