The Recording Academy Remembers Drummer Ricky Lawson

According to the Associated Press, drummer Ricky Lawson passed away Monday, December 23, 2013, following following a brain aneurism. He was 59.

He won the 1986 GRAMMY Award for his instrumental work on the Yellow Jackets' tune "And You Know That".

The Recording Academy's President and CEO Neil Portnow released the following statement on Lawson's passing: "GRAMMY winner Ricky Lawson was a gifted and dynamic drummer. who co-founded the jazz-fusion band the Yellow Jackets. He also became a top studio session player, collaborating with a diverse group of artists including Eric Clapton, Whitney Houston, Michael Jackson, and Bette Midler. The music industry has lost a skillful and passionate musician all too soon, and our sincere condolences go out to his family, friends and those who were inspired by his musical talent."

Lawson was a founding member of the Yellow Jackets and also played alongside musicians such as Michael Jackson, Eric Clapton, Phil Collins and Whitney Houston. He also collaborated with Al Jarreau, George Benson, Bette Midler, Quincy Jones and more.