Visionary composer and saxophonist Wayne Shorter has passed away at age 89, departing the earth as we know it and embarking on a new journey as part of his extraordinary life. Shorter was surrounded by his loving family in Los Angeles at the time of his transition and is survived by his devoted wife Carolina, daughters Miyako and Mariana, and newly-born grandson Max. Always inquisitive and constantly exploring – ever the fearless and passionate innovator – Shorter had just won his 13th GRAMMY Award in February. A gentle spirit, sci-fi and cartoon enthusiast, the last few prolific years of his life saw the realization of Shorter’s opera …Iphigenia, written in collaboration Esperanza Spalding, which played to widespread critical acclaim across the country in 2020, and the 2018 release of his GRAMMY-winning triple album and graphic novel EMANON.
Herbie Hancock, Shorter’s closest friend and collaborator for more than six decades, said “Wayne Shorter, my best friend, left us with courage in his heart, love and compassion for all, and a seeking spirit for the eternal future. He was ready for his rebirth. As it is with every human being, he is irreplaceable and was able to reach the pinnacle of excellence as a saxophonist, composer, orchestrator, and recently, composer of the masterful opera …Iphigenia. I miss being around him and his special Wayne-isms but I carry his spirit within my heart always.”
“Maestro Wayne Shorter was our hero, guru, and beautiful friend,” said Blue Note President Don Was. “His music possessed a spirit that came from somewhere way, way beyond and made this world a much better place. Likewise, his warmth and wisdom enriched the lives of everyone who knew him. Thankfully, the work he left behind will stay with us forever. Our hearts go out to Carolina and all who loved him.”
Wayne Shorter, my best friend, left us with courage in his heart, love and compassion for all, and a seeking spirit for the eternal future. He was ready for his rebirth. As it is with every human being, he is irreplaceable . . . pic.twitter.com/MRVfXhaz8T
— Herbie Hancock (@herbiehancock) March 2, 2023
The Great legendary
Wayne Shorter passed today.
He has given us such a treasure trove of recordings of his compositions and improvisations! I feel so blessed to have been able to share some amazing creative experiences with him. pic.twitter.com/gSo2CIw2Ao— Jack DeJohnette (@DeJohnetteMusic) March 2, 2023
It has been a deeply sad morning to learn that my brother and fellow explorer of the Inner and Outer Universe @Wayne_Shorter has left town. The Maestro was a visionary, a great composer, and a friend with whom I shared a love for the Eternal Now.
Barche Lamsel pic.twitter.com/cjxB6OSnJR— Charles Lloyd (@CharlesLloydSax) March 2, 2023
