My daddy was a humble man with a lyrical sound that captured the spirit of Crescent City
Ellis Marsalis
My daddy passed away last night. We now join the worldwide family who are mourning grandfathers and grandmothers, mothers and fathers, sisters and brothers— kinfolk, friends, neighbors, colleagues, acquaintances and others.
What can one possibly say about loss in a time when there are many people losing folks that mean so much to them? One of my friends lost both her mother AND father just last week. We all grieve and experience things differently, and I’m sure each of my five brothers are feeling and dealing in their own way.
My daddy was a humble man with a lyrical sound that captured the spirit of place—New Orleans, the Crescent City, The Big Easy, the Curve. He was a stone-cold believer without extravagant tastes.
Like many parents, he sacrificed for us and made so much possible. Not only material things, but things of substance and beauty like the ability to hear complicated music and to read books; to see and to contemplate art; to be philosophical and kind, but to also understand that a time and place may require a pugilistic-minded expression of ignorance.
His example for all of us who were his students (a big extended family from everywhere), showed us to be patient and to want to learn and to respect teaching and thinking and to embrace the joy of seriousness. He taught us that you could be conscious and stand your ground with an opinion rooted ‘in something’ even if it was overwhelmingly unfashionable. And that if it mattered to someone, it mattered.
I haven’t cried because the pain is so deep….it doesn’t even hurt. He was absolutely my man. He knew how much I loved him, and I knew he loved me (though he was not given to any type of demonstrative expression of it). As a boy, I followed him on so many underpopulated gigs in unglamorous places, and there, in the passing years, learned what it meant to believe in the substance of a fundamental idea whose only verification was your belief.
I only ever wanted to do better things to impress HIM. He was my North Star and the only opinion that really deep down mattered to me was his because I grew up seeing how much he struggled and sacrificed to represent and teach vital human values that floated far above the stifling segregation and prejudice that defined his youth but, strangely enough, also imbued his art with an even more pungent and biting accuracy.
But for all of that, I guess he was like all of us; he did the best he could, did great things, had blind spots and made mistakes, fought with his spouse, had problems paying bills, worried about his kids and other people’s, rooted for losing teams, loved gumbo and red beans, and my momma’s pecan pie. But unlike a healthy portion of us, he really didn’t complain about stuff. No matter how bad it was.
A most fair-minded, large-spirited, generous, philanthropic (with whatever he had), open-minded person is gone. Ironically, when we spoke just 5 or 6 days ago about this precarious moment in the world and the many warnings he received ‘to be careful, because it wasn’t his time to pass from COVID’, he told me,” Man, I don’t determine the time. A lot of people are losing loved ones. Yours will be no more painful or significant than anybody else’s”.
That was him, “in a nutshell”, (as he would say before talking for another 15 minutes without pause).
In that conversation, we didn’t know that we were prophesying. But he went out soon after as he lived—-without complaint or complication. The nurse asked him, “Are you breathing ok?” as the oxygen was being steadily increased from 3 to 8, to too late, he replied, ”Yeah. I’m fine.”
For me, there is no sorrow only joy. He went on down the Good Kings Highway as was his way, a jazz man, “with grace and gratitude.”
And I am grateful to have known him.
- Wynton
Comments
So sorry to hear of your father and our jazz friend’s passing. May god bless, guide, and protect you and yours always.
-Joe
Joe Dupre on Apr 13th, 2020 at 4:42pm
My heart goes out to Wynton Marsalis and his family. It brought tears to my eyes to hear of his father’s passing. I guess when people express grief, publicly, as opposed to a private citizen, it is the same for all of us. They just have the opportunity to voice publicly the rawness and terribleness of what we are all feeling and experiencing inside. Death, whether public or private is a horrible thing. It rips at the very soul of a being. Perhaps when we hear of grief publicly, it touches on the deepness of our souls and causes the flood of emotions to pour out, understanding what they feel, feeling sorry for ourselves and them at the same time. I am so so sorry for everyone who has lost a loved one or carries the worry of tomorrow under the cloud of this ravaging disease. I pray for God’s mercy for us all.
Lisa Cervantes Meza on Apr 13th, 2020 at 1:21am
Wynton,
To you, your Brothers and entire group of Family and Friends…I’m moved by your strength and resolve during this challenging time, and you have set an example for all of us in the global family. My immediate Family and I have not been personally touched by this demon yet, but I’m sure we’re all at risk eventually…a feeling so helpless when I see all the health care workers standing up to the charge.
Your words in time of grief will no doubt add hope and strength to others
It appears you follow in your Dad’s footsteps, so keep blowin’ that horn! We all need some music right now!
Best Wishes!
John Tuttle on Apr 12th, 2020 at 10:48pm
I know everyone is feeling pain & grief & my heart aches. The way you talk of your Dad and his wisdom really touched me. I hope you will find comfort that your words profoundly affected me & will stay with me. I will be listening to your music & thinking of you through this difficult time. Take good care, Trista
Trista Robertson on Apr 12th, 2020 at 10:03pm
Dear Wynton
I just watched you play your trumpet for your dad on 60 minutes.
You gave me great hope for the recovery of the human race once this horrible moment is behind us.
In 1972 I was 14 years old when I played taps at the grave site during my Fathers funeral. My Mother had asked me to play it and I did not know if I could get through it. Some how I found the strength with the support of my family. Thank you for renewing that strength for me and reminding us that we all can get through this together.
Bill
William Wedin on Apr 12th, 2020 at 7:56pm
Mr. Wynton Marsalis, my deepest sympathy to you and your family on the passing of Mr. Marsalis. I have been a great admirer of yours for a long time. I’m here in El Paso, TX, and know Freddy Valles and his entire family. We always talk about you and I offer my insight on some of the music you and Branford have played. Rest assured, we have prayed for you and asked our Heavenly Father to touch your spirit with strength and resolve in this difficult time. Please continue sharing your gift with the world as your father certainly expects you would. What a beautiful person your dad was. He is with you, now and always. My condolences to your entire family, a friend you haven’t met yet, Carlos Rodriguez Jr.
Carlos Rodriiguez Jr. on Apr 12th, 2020 at 6:01am
My deepest sympathies to you and your family regarding your father’s passing.
I recall this sweet experience…
Many years ago, Wynton told me that his father… who had attracted my attention in NYC when I heard him warming up before a performance…told him that he heard a girl sounding good on the trombone, I was flattered. Although I didn’t physically hear him say anything, as I reflected, throughout the years, I often heard this experience as one of fatherly encouragement that every child needs to hear.
Thank you, Ellis!
Janice Robinson, trombonist
Janice Robinson on Apr 9th, 2020 at 4:54pm
We’re sorry about your Dad’s passing – First thing comes to mind is
We all go on enjoying his sons’ music
and my Wynton as a mentor
miss you, Hank Nowak
alias Jay Janson whose articles Wynton in part inspire
Hank Nowak and Jung on Apr 9th, 2020 at 3:28pm
So sorry to hear about your father’s passing. What a great man he was (not only as a musician, but as a father; look who he raised?!). I think your tribute says it all. We have his music to remember him by. And you have the fond memories of your life with him (and your mom). We pray for you and your family during this difficult time.
BTW, your playing has inspired me to re-learn the horn. After a nearly four-decade layoff, I’m back to square one to learn the proper way to play it (working on double tonging and breathing from the base right now – or as Satchmo said “pinch a quarter and don’t make change” – with the help of a gifted player and teacher. But it’s your incredible technical proficiency combined with your musicality that inspires me to do better. (Looks like it runs in the family!) Thank you!
Robb
Robb Northrup on Apr 8th, 2020 at 12:51pm
Hello. And Bye.
OrlandoVak on Apr 8th, 2020 at 9:32am
Just a painful shock. A palpable loss. I love and treasure your family so much. I can’t even count how many times I would hear the Marsalis name and shake my fist to the skies that I was not born into your family. To live a life of music, art, passion and good work. What better journey is there in life?
My heart and my condolences go out to all of you.
Maria Cardenas on Apr 7th, 2020 at 11:08pm
Wynton, There world is a better place, not just while Ellis was here, but BECAUSE he was here.
We all grieve with you. Take good care.
dL
Muncie, In, USA
Darleen Lugenbuhl (formerly Puzzullo) on Apr 7th, 2020 at 7:05pm
Ellis Marsalis Tribute
As you know, the stellar patriarch Ellis Marsalis passed yesterday due to complications from Coronavirus. He was 85.
Due to government mandates to stop the spread of the virus, we can’t send Ellis Marsalis off like we wanna—with a second line. In that light, I decided to organize a virtual tribute to Ellis Marsalis.
Email your thoughts & stories about Ellis Marsalis.
Email your poems that pay tribute to Ellis Marsalis.
Email your music & song videos that pay tribute to Ellis Marsalis.
“Do whatcha ya wanna! Do whatcha wanna!”
Email by this coming Friday, April 10.
Kalamu ya Salaam is going to send a tribute & hopefully many more.
How would you pay tribute to Ellis Marsalis?
Email [email protected]
SPREAD THE WORD!
TAYARI KWA SALAAM on Apr 7th, 2020 at 3:44pm
I’m so very sorry! We have been watching “Jazz” by Ken Burns. Coronavirus quarentine. Your explanations are the highlight and the delight of our entertainment. I’ve just learned about your daddy. I’m crying for you. Love. Martha
Martha Hill on Apr 7th, 2020 at 1:14pm
CHARLES “HONEYBOY ” OTIS
CHARLES S. FAIRLEY,JR. INTRODUCED ME TO ELLIS MARSALIS @ 16 , IN GULFPORT,
MISSISSIPPI. JAIJOHNIE THE NAME
MARSALIS IS ROYALTY IN
NEW ORLEANS. I AM THANKFUL TO
HAVE WALKED IN HIS PRESENCE. THANK YOU ELLIS!
JAIJOHNIE JOHNSON
JAIMOEJOHNIE JOHNSON on Apr 6th, 2020 at 9:59pm
Hi, here on the forum guys advised a cool Dating site, be sure to register – you will not REGRET it https://bit.ly/2V8RcKK
Lloydirrer on Apr 6th, 2020 at 9:48pm
Was so saddened to see this news today. What a great gift your dad was to our world, and what a great gift he gave to us all in the vision he instilled in you from a young age. Praying for you and your brothers during this difficult time.
Kevin Clarke on Apr 6th, 2020 at 9:02pm
Sending angels of comfort and healing to hover! My deepest condolences to you all.
Natalie OliverAtherton on Apr 6th, 2020 at 11:49am
My heart goes out to you and your family. We mourn with you.
Ron Acosta on Apr 6th, 2020 at 1:14am
Dear Sir
Our thoughts are with you. Take care in those unsettling and difficult times.
God bless you!
With all best wishes,
Efrem
Stockholm.
Efrem Beyene on Apr 5th, 2020 at 4:51pm
Dear Mr. Marsalis/Wynton,
Thank you from the bottom of my heart for sharing your father with us. . And, thank you for all that you are and share with our world– truly a Blessing. Prayers and warmest thoughts are with you and your family.
Mary Fierke on Apr 5th, 2020 at 2:40pm
My family is sending condolences and prayers. What you wrote was beautiful.
Kasha inouchi, son Victor Puentes on Apr 5th, 2020 at 12:48pm
Please accept my deepest sympathy on the loss of Ellis Marsalis.
After the 2003 appearance of the Mssrs. Marsalis at the National Arts Centre in Ottawa, I wrote the poem below.
I sent it to the contact point for him but never knew if it reached him.
Since published, my tribute to Eliss, “Like father, like son” now appears on my website, www.jcsulzenko.com.
I share it here.
May memories of Ellis Marsalis, as was his life, be a blessing.
Like Father, Like Son
Ellis Marsalis caresses the keys, releases melody.
His sons trombone, sax, trumpet, drum
into the music, explore its geography,
improvise new routes to the source of sound.
They play together, yet play alone
a composition so intimate it’s a surprise
when the jazz flows back to where it began.
What lingers is not the music.
It’s Ellis. His voice soft,
he introduces each son
as though unwrapping a gift.
Did he know from the start how it would be,
sharing the same stage, each other’s rhythms
the joyful dissonance, the harmonies?
He’d likely say luck had a hand in it, led
his boys past the usual rejection of a father’s
ways to choose such instruments
for the love of him, for the love of song.
JC Sulzenko on Apr 5th, 2020 at 12:34pm
What an awesome and beautiful tribute to the one who loved you dearly. His words of wisdom to you spoken so eloquently. True live never dies. Blessings of comfort to you and your family. Earth has no sorrow that Heaven cannot heal.
Marlyn Williams on Apr 4th, 2020 at 8:25pm
Te mandamos un fuerte abrazo desde España.
Ramón Suriano Corrales on Apr 4th, 2020 at 7:33pm
bless~
sunday x on Apr 4th, 2020 at 7:21pm
Dear Wynton,
We were so moved by your tribute to your father and are deeply saddened by your loss made more poignant by the separation from family and loved ones in this awful pandemic. We did not know your father, but we know and so enjoy your work at Jazz at Lincoln Center. Your father’s soul shines in you. We acknowledge a great man’s passing.
Blessings upon you and yours.
Cos and Elizabeth
Cos and Elizabeth on Apr 4th, 2020 at 3:32pm
May his memory be for a blessing as you so beautifully expressed in your blog. My heart goes out to you at this difficult time. Love, “Da Mama”
Anita Fricklas on Apr 4th, 2020 at 12:13pm
Dear Mr Marsalis
My wife and I would like to express our deepest sympathy for the severe loss that you and your family have suffered.Your loving words about your father have touched us very much, all the more so as our family and ourselves have been spared from it so far. Luckily, my father, who is over ninety, recovered from a banal bronchitis only last week, and my ninety-year-old in-laws are also still in good health. I can understand why your tears won’t flow right now, as I felt the same way when my mother died unexpectedly 16 years ago.But the sadness will come when the time has come and you allow it. I am sure you will find comfort in the company of your loved ones. Your wonderful music will help you to get through these difficult moments and gain new strength.
My wife and I wish you and your family all the best and hope that you yourself will remain healthy.
Warm regards
Raymond and Annemarie Regh from Brussels, Belgium
Raymond Regh on Apr 4th, 2020 at 6:13am
12/13/2019 was an historic date for me..i was at the snug harbor and I saw the the two sets your dad played
and it was awesome!!.I had the privilege to talk to him in person between sets and giving him a small present and he thanked me with a big smile and a picture wich I treasure for ever, I am deeply sad for the loss of this great man, musician, educator and I have this crazy theory that GOD putted him on this planet for the purpose the the great new orleans jazz tradition not to be forgotten.
I have to confess a sin…since coming from israel to see your dad I just couldn t resist to tape the performance in my phone and it is at your disposal I beg for forgivness …but considering what happened I am happy I did…
all of you are my heroes and may the LORD give you confort and keep you safe
isaac salama on Apr 4th, 2020 at 5:18am
Hello Wynton,
We are so sorry for the loss of your Father. May he rest in peace, and may God bless you and your entire family. Please accept our sincere condolences.
Bobby Gallegos- Former Big Band Music Director, Berklee City Music. Boston, Massachusetts
Robert Gallegos on Apr 4th, 2020 at 1:52am
Mr. Marsalis, my deepest condolences. About 12 years ago I used to write for a print jazz publication in Los Angeles that has since gone under. I had the pleasure of interviewing both Ellis and Jason Marsalis when their Monk album came out. I am a jazz fan. Not a professional writer.
I had both your father and brother on the same line on their respective phones. Due to my own error I did not have the recorder on. I discovered it after the interview. I was so embarrassed as I called them both back and asked to do the interview again. They were both very gracious and readily consented.
What struck me was how soft-spoken, laid back and kind your father was. Jason was very respectful and let him do most of the talking. One of the easiest, relaxed and most pleasant interviews I’ve done.
Again, my deepest sympathy.
Ollie Bivins
Los Angeles.
ollie bivins on Apr 3rd, 2020 at 11:26pm
Mr. Marsalis,
What a beautiful tribute to your father. Thank you for sharing it to the world. I am a big fan of yours and am so humbled to read of the deep father/son love and relationship you had, especially you appreciating how hard he really had it but never complained. The greatest generation. God bless and peace to you and your family!
Maria DeGennaro on Apr 3rd, 2020 at 9:29pm
[Luigi, please share with Wynton]
Dearest Wynton,
You know what’s in out hearts, but maybe not how deeply it’s there. Immediately upon hearing the news, Alexander, Ann, Charles, and their wives all got in touch, and asked to be remembered to you and the family. Lisa and I are sending the condolences that we also texted. This one has hit hard, and reminded us that we need to be girding ourselves for grief nowadays.
Your father was one of the smartest guys I ever met, and I’ll always remember his fierce intellect, his brilliant playing, and his graciousness in sharing both.
Much, much love – and here’s to the time when we can embrace again,
Murray
Murray Horwitz on Apr 3rd, 2020 at 6:41pm
Mr. Marsalis, you’re going to get a ton of these so I’ll be brief.
Your tribute to your dad is overflowing with your love, respect and loss. You’ll cry when the time is right.
My condolences.
John
John Drolett on Apr 3rd, 2020 at 5:28pm
My deepest condolences to you and family, Wynton!
Grateful for his life and contribution.
Sincerely,
Jennifer
Jennifer Pollard on Apr 3rd, 2020 at 4:41pm
My sincerest condolences to you, your family and your father’s colleagues and friends. You are all in my prayers. May the God of all comfort, comfort you and give you peace during this very difficult time.
Melissa
Melissa Lewandowski on Apr 3rd, 2020 at 4:12pm
Our condolences.
Debbie on Apr 3rd, 2020 at 3:29pm
Dear Wynton,
Our hearts ached to learn the news about your Daddy. There is nothing that can prepare you for a time such as this (I lost my Daddy unexpectedly two years ago). Your Daddy was a phenomenal musician and, from reading your beautifully penned words above, he was a great husband, Daddy and friend to so many. For so many of us (my husband and I included), his legacy of musicing – passed down through his children and living on in recordings and memories of his own music – will be eternal. As a collab pianist, my go-to viewing/listening for collaboration in Baroque ornamentation is your video series with Kathleen Battle. That’s your Daddy living on. For those who listen to the music of your family, that’s your Daddy living on. In all your family does – musicing and otherwise – there’s your Daddy again, living on. Still, it’s not the same as holding his hand, seeing his eyes twinkle or hearing his voice. We know that hurt and we know that, while it never goes away, it does begin to soften with time. We know your family will lean on each other. We will add you to our written prayer list and pray for you – the man who, when trying to quietly leave a show he conducted in NYC one Sunday in 2015, saw/heard some squealing white girl b/c she saw her trumpet hero – you. You were gracious to speak with us and pose for a picture. That was beyond huge for us. We were there to perform at Carnegie Hall, but guess which event was most important? Having those few minutes with you, for sure. Much love and prayers from two people very fond of your family and thankful for your Dad’s legacy, Kayla and Jason Paulk, Eastern New Mexico University
Kayla and Jason Paulk on Apr 3rd, 2020 at 2:19pm
Hey Wynton, I am so sorry for you, your family and the world in general. I can only imagine what a great dad he was – peace to you and your family.
Paul Welcomer on Apr 3rd, 2020 at 1:37pm
My deepest sympathies to you and your family on the loss of your father; you are a remarkable family, and he sounds like a remarkable man as well as a fine musician. Your message of gratitude is very touching.
All the best in the future.
Deborah Odell on Apr 3rd, 2020 at 12:07pm
Wynton,
I enjoyed your Dad’s gift.
Especially during Jazz Fest, his set would make you slow down, and just enjoy the moment at that time and place.
Thank you and your family for sharing him with the world.
Condolences.
Todd
Todd L Sterling on Apr 3rd, 2020 at 12:07pm
Your dad was a great pianist, educator and father as exemplified by all of the wonderful things that have come from you and your brothers.
Please accept my deepest condolences and sympathies during this difficult time, Wynton.
Peace,
Isaac ben Ayala
Isaac ben Ayala on Apr 3rd, 2020 at 10:53am
This is a beautiful, eloquent tribute to your father Wynton. God bless you and your family during this very difficult time. My thoughts and prayers are with you all. The state of Louisiana and city of New Orleans have lost a beloved citizen in Ellis Marsalis, and the jazz world and music world in general have lost a great musician and teacher. I can only imagine what extraordinary jammin’ he’ll be doing up in Heaven with all the other jazz legends who’ve passed, and what a joyous time will be had by all — musicians and music lovers alike … a literal jazz lovers Paradise. It makes this singer and native New Orleanian smile just thinking about it.
Debbie Powell on Apr 3rd, 2020 at 10:24am
I never met your father, but he sounds like a wonderful man. Cherish your sweet memories. I hope the memorial service will be held later…people will want to gather to celebrate Ellis’ life and art. But for now…PLEASE stay home!
Linda crawford on Apr 3rd, 2020 at 9:46am
Beautifully written and very moving❣️
Joyce Ames on Apr 3rd, 2020 at 9:34am
Spent many hours listening to the beautiful
Music and children he created. My heart
Goes out to you dear friend. Doug
Doug Wheeler on Apr 3rd, 2020 at 9:04am
It’s so good to read about family. Through it all!
Sharon Haney on Apr 3rd, 2020 at 8:38am
A legend, my sincere condolences to the Marsalis family, I learned to listen to and enjoy Jazz with you.
Edson Ferreira
São Paulo – Brasil
Edson Ferreira on Apr 3rd, 2020 at 7:15am
. I’m sure you have countless of brothers and sisters as he spoke and shared his llife lessons of survival spurred from being a child of the segregated south . I’m sure it was never about money as much as it was sharing his knowledge of how to make a difference in this world . I know it wasn’t about the life of the rich and famous as much as it was about mankind . I’m sure he treated everybody the same ; and he never met a stranger . Probaly advised you and your brothers of “ don’t get to big for your britches “.. He may have been famous ; but as I read your comments I realized that in your world he was just “Daddy” So another soldier gone on in and I’m sorry for your loss . Thanks for sharing him with us and I will be praying for you and family . .
Leila Haynes Pelichet on Apr 3rd, 2020 at 5:17am
Wynton, I want to send you and your family my deepest and kindest thoughts in this time of celebration and joy. One might ask why would I make such a comment in regards to the passing of your most graceful and brilliant father Ellis. My sentiments are based on a reality that no one can contend: your father is now at rest, at peace, and I’m confident with God. He leaves a loving family behind, but with the understanding that God decides when He is ready to take us away from this earth. Your father was and will always be remembered as a great man; his legacy will forever shine in my heart as one who inspired his sons to be dedicated musicians, educators, and servicemen to humanity, as he was. Therefore, we have someone and something to celebrate and be joyful about: Ellis and his remarkable work and contributions to music and so much more, that it would take a significant amount of time than what I will be able to discuss in this message.
In retrospect, the seed Ellis planted in all of you, was then passed on by your family to me, which inspired me to pursue music education as a profession.
Of course Ellis will be missed, but we can celebrate that now He lives his most significant moment along with his heavenly Father, where “…there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain …” Revelations 21:4
God Bless You and your family, and may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ comfort you.
Rose Porter
Music Educator/Special Education
Rose on Apr 3rd, 2020 at 4:50am
You do not know me but my mother attended Dillard. She knew your father and said he was like a quiet giant. 30 years later, while I was attending Dillard, me and my friends would go to a small jazz lounge to see him play. I believe it was every Monday. I told him about my mother and how I was attending Dillard. He was always very encouraging and gave me good sound advice. My family will keep you in our prayers.
Susan Bradshaw on Apr 3rd, 2020 at 1:12am
My deepest condolences to you and your family!
Vicki C Joseph on Apr 3rd, 2020 at 1:01am
A beautiful tribute to a very special man that I was lucky enough to see at the Snug Harbor not to many years ago, and a great musician!!
Ron Maxfield on Apr 3rd, 2020 at 12:59am
What a touching tribute to such a great man, your North Star. Sending thoughts and prayers to you and the family,
Nick
Nick Volz on Apr 3rd, 2020 at 12:55am
Magnificent tribute to one great man from another!!! Heartfelt condolences to you and your family.
David Capes on Apr 2nd, 2020 at 10:39pm
I’m so sorry Mr. Marsellis . My condolences to you and your family..
romero flores on Apr 2nd, 2020 at 10:05pm
“I haven’t cried because the pain is so deep… it doesn’t even hurt.” Yup. My beloved daddy died years ago and I get it. I’m sorry for you and your family because loss is so hard.
I’ve been a member at J@LC for the whole time, now employed there which makes me lucky.
My condolences.
Chiasura on Apr 2nd, 2020 at 9:29pm
I read your entry and felt your love for your Father. The The whole world is feeling a great loss of a very special soul. I pray for you and your family. May you find peace in your moment of sadness. God bless you.
Donald Gaither on Apr 2nd, 2020 at 9:00pm
Dear Wynton,
My son Hayden Floro (drum set) has played with you last summer in Brazil while he was attending a CCM program with his Jazz Ensemble Directed by Scott Belk. I have come to know you vicariously through him. He has told me much about your interactions with him and how open and accepting you are with him and all the students. Thank you for that, it’s very meaningful. You are Much like your dear father. I want to say how sorry I am for your loss. The world is greatly missing him already. Hayden has posted this on his FB. I pray for Peace and Strength for you and your family through this tumultuous time. God Bless You!
Mark Floro on Apr 2nd, 2020 at 8:25pm
“And the angels sing” Johnny Mercer
May he Rest with the angels and all the company of Heaven.Deepest Condolences to the family of Marsalis at this time for the loss of your Father.And thanks to the family of Marsalis for the legacy he leaves which has informed you and the world.
Jacintha Abisheganaden on Apr 2nd, 2020 at 7:59pm
deepest sympathies to you and family his music will live in you forever
Kevin Muth on Apr 2nd, 2020 at 7:27pm
To Wynton, and your family,
Your Father raised wonderful sons – BRAVO to Elis!
Take care,
Bob Lark
Bob Lark on Apr 2nd, 2020 at 7:10pm
This truly is one of the most beautiful things I have ever read. Surely the son is a reflection on the father, and a fine one at that. God bless and thank you for the joy of the music your family shares with us.
Carolyn Blanchard on Apr 2nd, 2020 at 6:21pm
You don’t know me but I feel as though I know you. I’ve heard about you since high school, I’m 60 now.. Played football for St. Aug. and would there about some dude named Wynton blowing the hell out of some horn at halftime.Heard about you from Stevie (may his sold RIP) a best friend and classmate who would say;’ man you gotta here Wynton and Branford. My late uncle Alphonse who passed a few years ago was related to your dad. Kenny James and I were friends from Lincoln Manor.
I said all that to say condolences man, to you and your family. We grieve with you like family.
Larry Parker on Apr 2nd, 2020 at 6:07pm
Mr. Marsalis,
My deepest condolences, thoughts, prayers.
Got to see you play in Milwaukee, WI last around Christmas. Before that, it was mid-90’s at the Weidner Center in Green Bay, WI…Got to meet you with my mother and father, Nadi Qamar/Spaulding Givens, who is almost 103 now.
Everything you are and your father was reminds me so deeply of my relationship with my own father, and all the things I look up to in him and in musicians and human beings like yourself and your father and family.
Rest in peace.
Fabian Qamar
Fabian Qamar on Apr 2nd, 2020 at 5:51pm
Inmense condolences Wynton. MTSCR.
MTSCR on Apr 2nd, 2020 at 5:20pm
Wow! What an eloquent and touching remembrance of your father! I more your and our loss as I celebrate his work and life. I’ll be re-educating myself on his work and influence by listening to his recordings, your works, and many of his musical progeny. His work resounds. To health!
Freddie Dunn on Apr 2nd, 2020 at 5:17pm
Thank you to your father who brought so much good to the world. Thank you for passing it on and enlarging it as a performer, educator, and social leader. My son and I were both fortunate enough to see your father onstage at EE a few years back. It was a very moving occasion, and the music was great too! I am very sorry for your loss.
Wes Hooker on Apr 2nd, 2020 at 5:16pm
Wynton, just wanted to express my condolences and prayers for you and your family.
Christian Jaudes on Apr 2nd, 2020 at 4:05pm
Pure of Heart, Heartfully heard.
Child of GOD, be not moved to tears or by fears for you are The Tree planted by everlasting waters flowing eternally melodies & undeniably anchored withstanding tall in winds waves, worries, war, wait.
No common time whole note will whole rest this loss,
But Marsalis’ musics’ hallowed Holy hope heals helps holds heeds and harkens humbly.
Know without doubt LOVE lives Lyrically long & Gabriel’s Horn Blows to Bless!
Cynthia on Apr 2nd, 2020 at 3:59pm
Your father must have been incredible. His children are the proof. I met Wynton at the opening of the New Jersey Performing Arts Center in Newark, NJ. My father is a Jazz musician and I could see that embedded cool, earthiness, observation and melodic movement in Wynton. This is an amazing and endearing tribute to your father. I have heard so much about him. He will never be forgotten because so much of him is in his family and I’m sure all he touched. Much love to you and your family.
Hisani P DuBose on Apr 2nd, 2020 at 3:55pm
Your father’s family is a blessing and inspiration to all of us – Americans, musicians, to all people. Our thanks will never end. For everything you have given us, we embrace you. Whatever the future brings, we are with you.
Michael Whitmore on Apr 2nd, 2020 at 3:44pm
From your words, I can see you are truly “your father’s son”…condolences & blessings to you and yours.
Norbert Jones on Apr 2nd, 2020 at 3:11pm
Wynton, I’m sorry about the loss of your Father, your model, your roadmap toward that infamous North Star. Sending prayers to you and the entire Marsalis family. I pray you know in your heart that you did make HIM proud. Your father was a legend to so many of us and we grieve this loss with you. Sending you my condolences with a virtual embrace.
Lisa-Marie Johnson on Apr 2nd, 2020 at 3:06pm
Amo vocês e agradeço profundamente por tudo que Ellis fez pela musica e educação! Gostaria de abraçar você igual quando você me abraçou em São Paulo/Brasil. Luz para família Marsalis <3
Thiago Bernardes on Apr 2nd, 2020 at 3:03pm
Sending love to you and the whole family. Your Daddy was a shining example for ALL of us.
Scott Whitfield on Apr 2nd, 2020 at 2:52pm
Thanks, Wynton, and so sorry for you and your family’s loss. Your last paragraph brought me to tears because in it I felt both your deep love for your father, but also your deep respect for the integrity he demonstrated as a jazz musician.
Chuck Flowers on Apr 2nd, 2020 at 2:43pm
A beautiful, thoughtful tribute from my dear friend, Wjynton.
Renee Rampton on Apr 2nd, 2020 at 2:04pm
Only a BIG MAN like your father can create a BIG MAN like you.
Condolences Master Marsalis.
Cristian Barbarino on Apr 2nd, 2020 at 1:41pm
Wynton et votre famille,
Je vous adresse de France toute ma sympathie et mes sincères condoléances, mes pensées vous accompagnent.
Votre papa, immense musicien, restera à jamais le papa de Wynton MARSALIS.
Franck
FRANCK ROLLET on Apr 2nd, 2020 at 1:34pm
Beautifully written. Sincere condolences to the Marsalis family from central Wisconsin.
Mary Nowinski on Apr 2nd, 2020 at 1:20pm
Wynton! My heart goes out to you and your families and friends …ThankYOU for sharing… Please stay strong…And Play your beautiful music for all to hear and feel your heart felt feelings ….
Joanne Karn on Apr 2nd, 2020 at 1:02pm
Wynton, I am so sorry for your loss. My sincere condolences to you and your family. Given the quality of his children I know that he was an amazing man. Rest in peace.
Gavin on Apr 2nd, 2020 at 12:35pm
So sorry for your loss:(
Music is an answer to emotional issues and learning disabilities. It is so much more than entertainment:)
Thanks to the Marsalis family for making the world a better and more beautiful place by pursuing the gift God gave them.
We are blessed. We have one more angel❣️
Charlotte Butler on Apr 2nd, 2020 at 12:22pm