Jazz Pianist And Legend Dave Brubeck (Known For His Hit ‘Take Five’) Has Died At Age 91

A legend in the world of jazz is now gone at the ripe old age of 91, maybe a testament that jazz music can help you live longer? As a pianist myself (although not a jazz one by any means), I can say he will be sorely missed by all musicians and fans alike. He's no longer with us but like most legends, his music will no doubt outlast the rest of us too...

For those of you that are unfamiliar with this phenom, he is best known for his hit 'Take Five' which you may not recognize by name but you have almost surely heard it in movies or other media. Most jazz music doesn't sell as well as pop/rock or country but this tune was different because it had a really really catchy hook and ended up being the first ever breakout jazz hit that went on to sell over a million copies. As a testament to this, I'm typically not attracted to jazz by and large but I loved this tune before I even knew who Dave Brubeck was or even the name of the song! Predictably it became the first song I learned when studying jazz and still remains my absolute favorite in the style.

He was still playing live up until yesterday, but to our dismay he passed away from a heart attack while en route to the cardiologist for a routine checkup. Dave had been having difficulty with his heart recently and had a pacemaker installed, but his heart had just had enough. Our hearts are broken, but watch the video below and visit his site to learn more about who he was and what his contributions were to the music scene as a whole. Speaking of which, if you like the the music of 'Peanuts' by the Vince Guaraldi Trio, check out Dave's new solo piano Christmas CD which is OUTSTANDING and puts me directly in the spirit. So long brother... keep jamming and we'll see you again real soon.