Recording Academy Issues Statement on Passing of Orrin Keepnews

The New York Times reports the passing of NEA Jazz Master, Thelonious Monk producer, record exec and four-time Grammy winner Orrin Keepnews on Sunday, March 1. He was 91 years old.

The Recording Academy has released the following statement on his passing:

Four-time GRAMMY® winner and Recording Academy Trustees Award recipient Orrin Keepnews was one of jazz's greatest advocates whose passion and enthusiasm for the music led him to help create some of the most noteworthy recordings in the genre.

A jazz journalist and album notes writer, he ultimately would become a record executive and producer of some of the most quintessential recordings by the likes of Thelonious Monk, Sonny Rollins, Bill Evans, Wes Montgomery, and Cannonball Adderley, among others. His attention to detail and his genuine love of jazz music earned him the respect of musicians, and for seven decades he devoted his life to every aspect of the genre - whether in the studio, in the marketplace, or through his writings. Additionally, Orrin's longstanding service to The Recording Academy as an elected leader was indispensable to our organization.

Our creative community has lost an American treasure, and his legacy will serve as a potent reminder of the importance of one of our nation's most original art forms. Our deepest sympathies go out to his family, his friends, and all those who share his commitment to keep jazz an ever-present and thriving part of our culture.

Neil Portnow
President/CEO
The Recording Academy

Photo Courtesy of The Recording Academy® /Wireimage.com © 2004. Photographed by: R. Diamond

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