Jazz Musician Russell Malone Has Passed Away at 60

Jazz Guitarist Russell Malone has died at 60 years old, leaving behind a powerful legacy.

At a Glance

Russell Malone passed away on August 23, 2024, at age 60.
His death from a heart attack occurred in Tokyo.
Malone was renowned for his versatility and distinctive playing style.
He worked with legends like Jimmy Smith and Diana Krall.

A Sudden Loss in Tokyo

Russell Malone, a highly regarded jazz guitarist, passed away on August 23, 2024, at the age of 60. His death was caused by a massive heart attack in Tokyo, a shocking blow to the jazz community. The news was announced by bassist Ron Carter, a longtime collaborator, who expressed deep sorrow over Malone’s unexpected passing.

Malone had been touring Japan with Ron Carter and pianist Donald Vega. They had just performed at the Blue Note Tokyo, a significant venue where many greats have showcased their talent. The tour will continue as a duo, with Carter and Vega honoring Malone’s memory.

Early Life and Career Beginnings

Born on November 8, 1963, in Albany, Georgia, Russell Malone was drawn to music from a young age, influenced by gospel, blues, and country sounds. He began playing guitar at the tender age of six, inspired by George Benson’s performance on TV. Malone graduated from Monroe High School in 1983 and immediately embarked on a professional music career in Atlanta.

Russell Malone was largely self-taught, and his dedication to his craft quickly propelled him to prominence in the early 1990s, among other luminaries such as Roy Hargrove and Christian McBride. His big break came while performing with Harry Connick Jr., which brought him into the spotlight.

A Versatile and Influential Musician

Russell Malone’s playing style was distinctive, characterized by precision, warmth, and a relaxed yet luscious quality. He was praised for his versatility, adeptly supporting various singers and instrumentalists while maintaining his unique sound as a bandleader and soloist. He openly acknowledged his influences, including B.B. King, Wes Montgomery, and Pat Martino, emphasizing the importance of influences in a musician’s playing.

The New York Times reported that according to a 2023 interview with Jazz Guitar Today, Malone said, “When I hear a player play, if I don’t hear a smidgen of influences, I get suspicious.”

Collaborations and Achievements

Throughout his career, Malone worked with a host of high-profile artists, playing alongside Jimmy Smith, Harry Connick Jr., and Diana Krall. He won a Grammy for his work on Hargrove’s album “Habana.” As a frontman, Malone recorded 13 albums and two as a co-leader with pianist Benny Green. His versatility even spanned several genres, including R&B, blues, gospel, country, and classical guitar.

He joined Ron Carter’s trio in 2002, a collaboration that endured for over two decades. His contributions earned him a revered status in the jazz community, not only for his musical excellence but also for his personal qualities of kindness, warmth, and humor.

Tributes

Ron Carter’s statement read, “Donald Vega and I are completing this tour as a duo, in respect and honor of the memory of Mr. Malone… this is the chair Mr. Malone sat in to play and represents his continued presence on the bandstand with us.”

The MoMA The Museum of Modern Art also posted tribute to Malone on Twitter, saying “his music brought our Sculpture Garden to life for a beautiful evening that will forever resonate.”

We're deeply saddened by the passing of the brilliant jazz guitarist Russell Malone, who graced our garden this spring alongside Ron Carter. His music brought our Sculpture Garden to life for a beautiful evening that will forever resonate. Read more about Malone below. https://t.co/7czjMVchEm pic.twitter.com/O5bz0akPIk

— MoMA The Museum of Modern Art (@MuseumModernArt) August 26, 2024

Malone’s influence on young musicians and his dedication to supporting fellow artists, especially those facing challenges, remains exemplary. His partner, Mariko Hotta, and children, Darius and Marla Malone, survive him, along with his extended family members.

A Lasting Influence

Russell Malone was a beacon of inspiration for many young musicians. His unique style, profound musical knowledge, and kindhearted demeanor set a high standard for future generations. His work, which spanned multiple genres and collaborations, continues to serve as an enduring influence in the jazz world and beyond. He uplifted others, and reportedly once shared the quote, “A candle loses nothing when it lights another candle!”

Russell Malone’s legacy will continue to echo, inspiring musicians and listeners worldwide.