A generational talent who had worked alongside Ray Charles, Miles Davis, and Bette Midler.

Jazz organist, composer, and bandleader Joey DeFrancesco has passed away at the age of 51.

A remarkable talent, DeFrancesco inked his first record deal at just 16, beginning a career during which he played, recorded, and toured with the likes of Miles Davis, David Sanborn, Ray Charles, Bette Midler, and Van Morrison.

As well as mastering the Hammond organ, he was a talented trumpeter, saxophonist, and occasional singer, and released more than 30 albums under his own name.

He continued touring and performing live right up until his passing.

The news of DeFrancesco’s death was shared by his wife and manager, Gloria DeFrancesco.

A statement read: “The love of my life is now in peace with the angels. Right now I have very few words. Thank you for the outpouring of love and support coming in from everywhere. Joey loved you all.”

DeFrancesco died on August 25th. A cause of death has not yet been shared.

Photo: Todd Van Hoosear