Sax player David Sanborn was a rock and roll legend. He died today at 78 after battling prostate cancer since 2018.
Sanborn was incredibly prolific and leaves a huge legacy. Among the hits he played solos on: David Bowie’s Young Americans, James Taylor’s How Sweet It Is, and so many more.
His family posted to Facebook:
“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. Mr. Sanborn passed Sunday afternoon, May 12th, after an extended battle with prostate cancer with complications.
Mr. Sanborn had been dealing with prostate cancer since 2018, but had been able to maintain his normal schedule of concerts until just recently. Indeed he already had concerts scheduled into 2025.
David Sanborn was a seminal figure in contemporary pop and jazz music. It has been said that he “put the saxophone back into Rock ’n Roll.”
Sanborn was beloved by all. He had so many credits I can’t list them. He’s played on all your favorite records. Here’s a link to his Wikipedia page.
Condolences to his family. Thank you, David.
