Elvin Jones
September 9, 1927 – May 18, 2004
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Yamaha Drums worldwide joins the music community in sadness at the passing of legendary jazz drummer Elvin Jones on May 18 in Englewood, NJ. He was 76.
A longtime Yamaha drum artist, Jones' spontaneous, improvisational style and technical chops have been credited with elevating the role of the drummer from mere rhythm accompanist to front line performer.
A native of Pontiac, Michigan, Jones entered the Detroit jazz scene in the late 1940s after spending time in the Army. He relocated to New York City in 1955, and after an unsuccessful audition for Benny Goodman, joined Charlie Mingus' band and later, the lineup of John Coltrane's classic 1960s quartet. After leaving the Coltrane quartet, he played with Duke Ellington and formed Elvin Jones' Jazz Machine, putting out a series of successful solo albums. His noted recordings include Sonny Rollins'
A Night At The Village Vanguard (Blue Note), John Coltrane's
A Love Supreme (Impulse!), Wayne Shorter's
JuJu (Blue Note) and Miles Davis'
Sketches of Spain (Columbia).
Throughout his long and distinguished career, Jones continued to tour, willingly sharing his innovative playing techniques, positive outlook and stories with students and fans worldwide.
"Music not only inspires – it can heal," he commented at a drum clinic held in New York City shortly after the September 11 tragedy. "It's carried me for over 60 years, and it's one of the most positive forces out there."
Joe Testa, Yamaha Drums artist relations manager, said, "For those who did not personally know Elvin, listen to his music, and you'll find everything you need to know about him. He had that rare ability to put his soul, personality, love, passion and his wonderful smile into his music. He has left us a wealth of gifts and lessons in each stroke he played and each note he wrote. He will be forever missed. God bless him."
Jones was one of ten children and also had two brothers who were renowned musicians: jazz pianist Hank, and trumpeter Thad. He is survived by his wife, Keiko, a son and a daughter.
