October 28, 2025 – Woodstock, New York
Jack DeJohnette, the acclaimed jazz drummer, bandleader, and composer, passed away on October 26, 2025, at the age of 83 due to congestive heart failure in Kingston, New York. His death marks the end of an era for jazz, as DeJohnette was widely regarded as one of the most innovative and influential drummers in the genre’s history.
Early Life and Musical Beginnings
Born in Chicago on August 9, 1942, DeJohnette began his musical journey as a classical pianist at the age of four. He transitioned to drums during his teenage years, a move that would define his career. By the mid-1960s, he had relocated to New York City, where he quickly became a sought-after session musician, collaborating with jazz luminaries such as Freddie Hubbard, Charles Lloyd, and Bill Evans.
Collaboration with Miles Davis
DeJohnette’s breakthrough came in 1968 when he joined Miles Davis’s groundbreaking fusion ensemble. He contributed to several of Davis’s seminal albums, including Bitches Brew, Jack Johnson, and On the Corner. His dynamic and eclectic drumming style played a pivotal role in the development of jazz fusion, blending elements of jazz, rock, and electronic music.
Solo Career and ECM Recordings
Beyond his work with Davis, DeJohnette had a prolific solo career. He released over 50 albums as a bandleader or co-leader, many of which were under the ECM label. His collaborations with artists like Keith Jarrett, Pat Metheny, and Jan Garbarek produced some of the most revered recordings in modern jazz. DeJohnette’s music was characterized by its harmonic depth and rhythmic complexity, often described as “superhuman” in its ability to blend melody and rhythm seamlessly.
Legacy and Recognition
DeJohnette’s contributions to jazz were recognized with numerous accolades. In 2012, he was named a National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) Jazz Master, one of the highest honors in the American jazz community. He was also a two-time Grammy Award winner, with his 2022 album Skyline earning Best Jazz Instrumental Album. His influence extended beyond performance; he was a mentor to younger musicians and a proponent of music as a means of spiritual and ecological connection.
Personal Life
DeJohnette is survived by his wife, Lydia, and their daughters, Farah and Minya. His family was by his side during his final moments in Kingston, New York.
In Memoriam
Jack DeJohnette’s passing leaves a void in the world of jazz, but his legacy endures through his extensive body of work. His innovative approach to drumming and his ability to transcend traditional musical boundaries have inspired generations of musicians and listeners alike. As the jazz community reflects on his life and contributions, DeJohnette’s music continues to resonate, a testament to his enduring impact on the art form.
