The renowned American saxophonist Lou Donaldson, a cornerstone of jazz music who bridged the era of bebop from the 1950s and subsequently evolved a soulful, Latin-infused sound in subsequent decades, has passed away at the age of 98. His demise, announced on Saturday through a heartfelt statement by his family, highlighted that "his monumental contributions to jazz will resonate eternally," fueled by the unwavering support of his devoted fans.
Among Donaldson's most celebrated compositions are "Blues Walk" (1958) and "Alligator Bogaloo" (1967), and he shared the recording studio with legends such as pianist Thelonious Monk, drummer Art Blakey, and organist Jimmy Smith. Leading bands for over seven decades, he earned the endearing nickname "Sweet Poppa Lou" for his uplifting, funky alto saxophone melodies. His rendition of "Everything I Do Gonna Be Funky (From Now On)" remains a staple on dance floors in jazz clubs across the globe.
Born on November 1, 1926, in Badin, a quaint town in North Carolina, Donaldson's musical journey began with the clarinet during his childhood. In the 1940s, he honed his skills on both instruments in a U.S. Navy band before relocating to New York in 1950, where he was captivated by the sounds of Charlie Parker in the city's clubs. Following a collaborative album with vibraphonist Milt Jackson that mirrored Parker's style, Donaldson embarked on his solo recording career with Blue Note, a label that nurtured emerging jazz talents like Donald Byrd and Horace Silver.
His tours across Europe and the United States with his bands became legendary. Performing in New York well into his 80s, Donaldson finally retired in 2018. He was married to his beloved wife, Maker, for 56 years until her passing in 2006. Together, they raised two daughters.
