Marshall Arts were saddened to learn earlier today that the composer, keyboardist and bandleader passed away on Tuesday (9 February 2021).
As a member of Miles Davies's band in the late 1960's Chick Corea participated in the birth of Jazz Fusion.
In the 1970's he formed the innovative band Return to Forever with an amazing line up of musicians, which grew and expanded over the years.
In 1978 Chick toured alongside Herbie Hancock. It was the first time these two greats of contemporary jazz had performed together in such a way. This led to the release of two albums, 'An Evening with Herbie Hancock & Chick Corea: In Concert' and 'Corea Hancock’.
Thirty-seven years later, Marshal Arts were extremely proud to be involved when Chick and Herbie recreated this memorable tour and went on to play a series of shows in the US and Europe.
With a career spanning five decades, Chick Corea is currently the artist with the most jazz GRAMMY wins, with a staggering 23 Awards.
Chick left a touching message on his website to those who knew and 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 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 know 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 dearly - this has been the richness of my life.”
Tributes have poured in from across the music industry, including from Al Di Meola who posted this message on his Instagram:
“The great Chick Corea has left this life but the incredible music he gave us and the meaningful memories will live on in my mind forever.
Joining Return to Forever was for me a dream come true. Chick was my favorite musician and RTF was my favorite band when I was 19 years old. It was a non stop groundbreaking musical journey. We were at the forefront of a new idiom called Jazz-Rock Fusion along with WEATHER REPORT and MAHAVISHNU ORCHESTRA.
An extremely exciting time the mid 70’s were! Thank you, dear Chick for the legacy you gave to the world and for believing in me and giving me the chance to play with you, my hero! Rest In Peace @chickcorea”
The world is so fortunate to have so much of Chick’s music to uplift and inspire, and his legacy will be there forever.