ST. LOUIS (KMOX) - Kirkwood native and saxophonist David Sanborn has passed away. “It is with sad and heavy hearts that we convey to you the loss of internationally renowned, 6 time Grammy Award-winning, saxophonist, David Sanborn,” reads a statement on his social media accounts. “Mr. Sanborn passed Sunday afternoon, May 12th, after an extended battle with prostate cancer with complications.”
CEO Jazz St. Louis Victor Goines tells KMOX David taught all of us what it means to persevere.
He contracted polio at the age of three and was introduced to the saxophone as part of his treatment therapy. That launched David’s powerful journey to becoming one of the most iconic voices in the history of the instrument.
David’s illustrious, storied career included performances with music's most celebrated figures. He won six Grammys and released 25 albums, one of which went platinum and eight gold.
A true champion of the music and a homegrown product of Kirkwood, David was always vocal about his support for Jazz St. Louis. He valued our work with students, saying, "It's incredible that a place like Jazz St. Louis exists, not just in St. Louis but anywhere."
Jazz St. Louis was proud to present David with the first ever Steward Center Lifetime Achievement Award of Excellence at our Swing For Tomorrow's Stars gala earlier this year.
“I am honored to receive this lifetime achievement award from Jazz St. Louis, especially as the first to do so,” Sanborn said at the time. “Growing up in St. Louis was critical to my success because it’s where I learned to play saxophone and it’s where I had some crucial experiences, such as playing with blues legends Albert King and Little Milton when I was 14. I’ve been all over the world but St. Louis will always be my hometown and I would like to thank Jazz St. Louis for giving me this incredible honor.”
“We chose David Sanborn for this special honor not only because of his amazing record as a jazz musician, but because he is an example of how learning a musical instrument can change someone’s life,” stated Jazz St. Louis President & CEO, Victor Goines.
We salute the legendary career and warm demeanor of one of our city's favorite sons. We are grateful for a legacy of beautiful music and inspiration that will continue to resonate. Rest in peace dear friend. There will never be another like you.