Rest in Peace, Jazz Legend Chick Corea: 1941-2021

On Thursday, it was announced that the world has lost renowned and legendary jazz composer/keyboardist Chick Corea from a short battle with cancer. He was 79.

Reads a statement on Corea’s official website and social media pages confirming his passing on Feb. 9, which also included a parting message from the 23-time-Grammy-winning Corea to fans:

It is with great sadness we announce that on February 9th, Chick Corea passed away at the age of 79, from a rare form of cancer which was only discovered very recently.

Throughout his life and career, Chick relished in the freedom and the fun to be had in creating something new, and in playing the games that artists do.

He was a beloved husband, father and grandfather, and a great mentor and friend to so many. Through his body of work and the decades he spent touring the world, he touched and inspired the lives of millions.

Though he would be the first to say that his music said more than words ever could, he nevertheless had this message for all those he knew and loved, and for all those who loved him:

“I want to thank all of those along my journey who have helped keep the music fires burning bright. It is my hope that those who have an inkling to play, write, perform or otherwise, do so. If not for yourself then for the rest of us. It’s not only that the world needs more artists, it’s also just a lot of fun.

“And to my amazing musician friends who have been like family to me as long as I’ve known you: It has been a blessing and an honor learning from and playing with all of you. My mission has always been to bring the joy of creating anywhere I could, and to have done so with all the artists that I admire so dearly—this has been the richness of my life.”

Chick’s family will of course appreciate their privacy during this difficult time of loss.

I’m devastated to hear of the legendary @ChickCorea’s passing. This man changed my life thru his music and we were able to play together many times. I was very fortunate to call him my family. Chick, you are missed dearly, your music and brilliant light will live on forever. pic.twitter.com/YR0n0fb4gH

— SheilaEdrummer (@SheilaEdrummer) February 11, 2021

Oh no!!!! 😥 So sad to hear of the passing of @ChickCorea One of the pioneers of jazz/fusion keyboards. Return To Forever was one of the first real Supergroups and such a huge influence. #RIPChickCorea pic.twitter.com/r49F8rVOB2

— Mike Portnoy 🤘 (@MikePortnoy) February 11, 2021

We lost a creative legend in the music. I’m fortunate that I got a chance to meet him, share the bandstand with him once, and tell him how much his music meant to me.

R.I.P. Armando @ChickCorea pic.twitter.com/uMx9Eh5b5w

— Jason Marsalis (@JasonMarsalis) February 11, 2021

We're heartbroken to hear that master pianist and musical boundary-pusher Chick Corea has passed away at age 79. We've gotten to cross paths with Corea several times over the years on the Cafe; listen to this 2018 interview he did with Talia Schlanger. https://t.co/Gp6Mf7YNvw

— World Cafe (@WorldCafe) February 11, 2021

May Chick Corea rest in peace.