Grammy-Winning Jazz Icon George Duke Dies at 67

George Duke, the Grammy-winning jazz keyboardist and producer whose sound infused acoustic jazz, electronic jazz, funk, R&B and soul, has died. He was 67.
Duke died Monday night in Los Angeles after being diagnosed with chronic lymphocytic leukemia, a representative for the performer said.
Duke’s son, Rashid, thanked his father’s fans in a statement Tuesday.
“The outpouring of love and support that we have received from my father’s friends, fans and the entire music community has been overwhelming,” he said. “Thank you all for your concern, prayers and support.”
Duke was born in San Rafael, Calif. He appeared on a number of Frank Zappa albums and played in the Don Ellis Orchestra, Cannonball Adderley’s band and with jazz musician Stanley Clarke.
Duke also played keyboard on Michael Jackson’s multiplatinum 1979 album, “Off the Wall.”
His wife, Corine, died from cancer last year. He was unable to make music for months, but he overcame his grief to create the album “DreamWeaver,” released last month.
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