The unexpected death of legendary jazz singer Al Jarreau on Sunday, Feb. 12, startled the music and fan communities alike, leading Chaka Khan and countless others to solemnly offer their condolences.
No cause of death was revealed for the 76-year-old Jarreau, known for his hits “We’re in This Love Together” and “Moonlighting.” A statement on the icon’s official website revealed he died early Sunday morning “in the hospital, kept comfortable by his wife, son and a few family and close friends.” There is no public memorial serviced planned as of yet.
A week earlier, the singer was forced to cancel his 2017 tour dates after being hospitalized for exhaustion in Los Angeles, Wednesday, Feb. 8. In a statement on Facebook, Jarreau’s representatives also announced he would retire from touring after five decades.
“He is thankful for his 50 years of traveling the world in ministry through music,” the statement said. “And for everyone who shared this with him — his faithful audience, the dedicated musicians, and so many others who supported his effort.”
When news of Jarreau’s death broke over the weekend, several messages of support poured out online. They included condolences from famous artists like Chaka Khan and Questlove.
Rest in power, @AlJarreau. U were EVERYTHING Jazz & beyond with an unrivaled improvisational genius. Love & prayers 2 his family & fans. pic.twitter.com/XylxkaAILe
— Chaka Khan (@ChakaKhan) February 12, 2017
One of my all time favorites. #LookToTheRainbow His European Live Lp is essential listening. One of the most creative vocalists EVER. rip #AlJarreau.
A photo posted by Questlove Gomez (@questlove) on
Feb 12, 2017 at 9:46am PST
Al Jarreau… One of the best ever! May flights of Angels guide thee to thy rest. #RIP
— LeVar Burton (@levarburton) February 12, 2017
love you al.
— lalah hathaway (@lalahhathaway) February 12, 2017
"We're in this love together." Bright words for dark days. Saluting Al Jarreau. Mom played his vinyl. His voice made me happy. At rest now. pic.twitter.com/staFXGBhOD
— Ava DuVernay (@ava) February 12, 2017
Nonfamous fans also shared their reactions to the passing of Jarreau, who is the only artist to win Grammys in three different categories: jazz, R&B and pop.
Thank you Al Jarreau for all the beautiful #Music and #Inspiration throughout my life. Travel well https://t.co/peaVIfLj68
— Jason Samuels Smith (@jsamsmith) February 13, 2017
Rest in peace, Al Jarreau. You will forever be a jazz inspiration for me. We've heard Your Song. Now, sing it in Heaven.<img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/2.2.1/72x72/1f614.png" alt="