Grammy-Nominated Singer Jubilant Sykes Dead at 71, Son in Custody

A renowned opera singer, a late-night 911 call, and a family member taken into custody — police are piecing together what happened inside a Santa Monica home Monday night.

Jubilant Sykes, a Grammy-nominated baritone known for his crossover performances in classical and contemporary music, was found fatally stabbed in his Santa Monica home on Monday evening. He was seventy-one.

The Santa Monica Police Department said officers responded to a 911 call about an assault at the residence around 9:20 p.m. Upon arrival, they found Sykes with critical injuries consistent with a stabbing. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

Micah Sykes, the singer’s thirty-one-year-old son, was located inside the home and taken into custody without incident, according to police.

The department confirmed that Sykes’s wife, Cecelia Sykes, was the one who called 911 to report the assault. Officials have not provided details about what may have led to the incident.

In a statement, the Santa Monica Police Department said, “The circumstances surrounding the incident remain under investigation. The suspect will be booked for homicide, and the case will be presented to the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office for filing consideration.”

Lieutenant Lewis Gilmour, a spokesperson for the department, confirmed that family members had informed police that Micah Sykes had a history of mental illness. However, authorities said it is too early to determine whether that played a role in the attack.

“It's unclear what circumstances led up; if there was any altercation or argument, we're investigating that angle right now,” said Santa Monica Police Lt. Lewis Gilmour.

Sykes had a distinguished career in music, performing with major orchestras across the country. He was known for bringing spirituals and gospel music into concert halls and opera houses, earning praise for his rich vocal tone and emotional range. His Grammy nomination solidified his status as a leading figure in American vocal performance.

As of Wednesday, December 10, no further details have been released. The investigation remains ongoing.