Cassandra Wilson has breathed her last.
On Wednesday, September 2, Variety reported that the two-time Grammy-winning singer died at the age of 70 in Jackson, Mississippi.
In a statement released by the iconic jazz singer’s longtime manager Robert Torre, it was shared that Wilson passed away on Wednesday morning. However, no cause of death was revealed.
The singer’s family, in the emotional statement, asked fans for privacy as they navigate the difficult time and grieve the heartbreaking loss.
“It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Cassandra Wilson, the Grammy Award-winning and legendary jazz artist,” read the statement.
It continued, “Cassandra Wilson transitioned peacefully at home, surrounded by family, close friends, and her manager. Her family and close friends respectfully ask for privacy during this difficult time as they grieve her loss.”
Following the devastating update, Cassandra Wilson’s close musical partner, co-producer, and guitarist Fabrizio Sotti issued a somber statement, mourning her passing.
“Dear Cassandra Rest In Peace, I can't find the words right now...I love you #cassandrawilson,” he penned.
About Cassandra Wilson
Born on December 4, 1955, in Jackson, Mississippi, Cassandra Wilson was an American jazz singer, songwriter, and producer.
She was one of the most successful female jazz singers and won numerous awards, including two Grammys, and was named America's Best Singer by Time magazine in 2001.
In 2017, Wilson told The Harvard Gazette about her dedication to jazz music.
“I think you’re always setting yourself up for heartbreak when you choose jazz, regardless of what era it is. It just comes with its own baggage, because of the nature of the music. And it pushes you. You have to be very strong in order to do this,” she said.
The Harvest Moon singer added, “You choose it because you have a longing and you’re searching and you also feel some sort of connection with that tradition. I think it’s really a noble pursuit and I would encourage people who are strong and thick-skinned, yes, pursue it — because there’s always someplace else to go in this music. I don’t believe I’m the last."
In 1980s, she, along with Steve Coleman, co-founded M-Base, a loose collective of young African American musicians and other performers active in and around Brooklyn, New York.
Short for Macro-Basic Array of Structured Extemporization, M-Base collective included Coleman, Wilson, Graham Haynes, Geri Allen, Robin Eubanks, and Greg Osby.
