Grammy-winning saxophonist David Sanborn, known for his collaborations with icons like Stevie Wonder, The Rolling Stones, and David Bowie, passed away at 78 due to prostate cancer, as announced in an Instagram post. Despite battling cancer since 2018, he continued performing until recently, maintaining a busy concert schedule. Regarded as influential in modern jazz and pop,
Sanborn revived the saxophone’s role in rock music. His wife, Alice Soyer, mourns his loss deeply. Sanborn, who began playing sax after contracting polio at three, viewed music as his life’s path, finding solace and inspiration in it. From his early days playing with blues legends to touring with major acts and featuring on iconic records, his impact on music was profound.
Additionally, he had a successful television career, including stints on Saturday Night Live and hosting his own shows. Even in his later years, he remained active, hosting a podcast and receiving accolades for his contributions to jazz. Throughout his life, music was his driving force, sustaining him in every aspect.