logo
Getty Images
Getty Images

Miles Davis' 'Kind of Blue' Drummer Jimmy Cobb Dies of Lung Cancer at 91 – What He Is Famous For

Olowokandi Fiyin
May 26, 2020
08:53 A.M.

Iconic drummer Jimmy Cobb, who was a member of Miles Davis’ first great sextet band has passed away at the age of 91 from lung cancer. We take a look at his adventurous and impactful life.

Advertisement

After a long, fulfilling life, the world finally said goodbye to jazz iconic Jimmy Cobb on May 24, as disclosed by his wife, Eleana Tee Cobb.

American jazz drummer Jimmy Cobb, who played on the Miles Davis album 'Kind Of Blue,' posses for a portrait on September 17, 2009 | Photo: Getty Images

American jazz drummer Jimmy Cobb, who played on the Miles Davis album 'Kind Of Blue,' posses for a portrait on September 17, 2009 | Photo: Getty Images

During an interview with NPR, Mrs. Cobb revealed that her famous drummer husband passed away in his home in Manhattan at the ripe age of 91 from lung cancer.

Cobb actively spent his time teaching master classes at Stanford University, the Brooklyn-Queens Conservatory of Music, and many other notable schools.

Advertisement

Cobb, who was the last surviving member of Miles Davis' jazz band formed in the mid-1950s, was often regarded as the heartbeat of the group’s most prolific and famous album, titled “Kind of Blue.”

His unique floating touch of cymbal beat and relaxed walking bassline propelled the 1959 album to become one of the most influential and famous jazz albums in history.

Advertisement

As noted by Daily Mail, the album is believed to be the best-selling jazz record of all time, selling about 5 million copies alongside being RIAA certified Quintuple Platinum.

Apart from working with the best of the best in Miles Davis’ band, Cobb was notable for his works with household names in the industry like Billie Holiday, Dinah Washington, Sarah Vaughan, among others.

Advertisement

According to The Guardian, Cobb was born in Washington D.C in 1929 as Wilbur James Cobb. At the age of 13, he bought his first drum set, after working as a busboy at a drugstore lunch counter.

All Music recalled that by 18, he began playing professionally, earning himself high profile gigs with the likes of Pearl Bailey, Leo Parker, and others.

Advertisement

Three years later, he relocated to New York and began a touring career with Earl Bostic. Although most of his life he served in the background as a drummer with others, Cobb didn’t record as a leader until later in his career, as seen on his website.

His last album, “Remembering U,” was released in September 2019. Aside from performing, Cobb actively spent his time teaching master classes at Stanford University, the Brooklyn-Queens Conservatory of Music, and many other notable schools.

Jimmy Cobb performs with the Roy Hargrove Quintet during the Blue Note Jazz Festival at Central Park SummerStage, New York, New York, June 6, 2015 | Photo: Getty Images

Jimmy Cobb performs with the Roy Hargrove Quintet during the Blue Note Jazz Festival at Central Park SummerStage, New York, New York, June 6, 2015 | Photo: Getty Images

The music legend is survived by his wife and their two daughters. His legacy will, no doubt, be remembered forever.

Advertisement
info
Please fill in your e-mail so we can share with you our top stories!
By subscribing, you agree to our Privacy Policy
Advertisement
Related posts

Prince's Estate Battle Lasted 6 Years: Who Got His Millions Following the Court's Decision

November 10, 2023

Sting Has Been Married to His Wife for over 3 Decades – How She Looks Today despite Being 'Bullied' Because of Her Face

February 05, 2024

'Pins & Needles': Prince Had Severe Pain in His Hands & Looked 'Frail' before He Died in an Elevator at 57

February 07, 2024

Susan Sarandon’s Youngest Son Is Now in His 30s, Taller than Her & Has Cut His Long Hair

November 22, 2023

Paul McCartney’s Brother ‘Was Nearly in the Beatles’ Then Hid Being Related to the Legendary Singer

November 10, 2023

Frances Swaggart Is Televangelist Jimmy Swaggart's Wife For Over 70 Years

November 17, 2023

Johnny Cash’s Children: A Closer Look at His 5 Kids from 2 Marriages

January 16, 2024

ABBA Star Anni-Frid Lyngstad Leads Quiet Life Years Following Tragic Death of Her Daughter

December 20, 2023

This Boy Struggled with Dyslexia & Worked for Slaughterhouse, Yet Became Legendary Singer with a Wife of 41 Years

November 28, 2023

What Is Freddie Simpson Doing Now? The Actress's Last Film Was in 2002

November 18, 2023

Val Kilmer Has 2 Beautiful Kids Who Stood by Ailing Dad as He Fought for His Life — Meet Them Both

February 28, 2024

These 5 Girls Are '90s Idols and One of Whom Is Married to a Famous Soccer Player – Quiz

December 20, 2023

Francine Valli Was in a Relationship with Richie Ramone When She Died

November 25, 2023

CBS Newsman Charles Osgood Dies at Home — Grieving Family Reveals Cause of Death

January 24, 2024