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BORN
1940
DIED
2017
Al Jarreau Obituary
His death came two days after an announcement was made on his website that he was retiring from touring because of exhaustion.
The singer's death was announced in a statement by his manager, Joe Gordon. Gordon said that instead of flowers or gifts, Jarreau's family requested contributions be made to the Wisconsin Foundation for School Music.
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Jarreau was born March 12, 1940, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. His father was a minister, and he started singing in church as a young boy. Jarreau told the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel it was at Lincoln High School where "my love of music and singing really deepened. I began to have ideas of taking this as far as it could go. And I kept dreaming that dream and nourishing that dream."
After moving to San Francisco, he made a name for himself singing with acoustic guitarist Julio Martinez.
Jarreau moved on to Los Angeles and sang at clubs such as the Troubador. He appeared on “The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson" and sang on “Saturday Night Live” during the show's inaugural season. Jarreau became known for his rhythmic scat singing.
He was signed to Warner Brothers Records and released his debut record titled “We Got By,” which led to international fame.
His most successful album, “Breakin’ Away,” came out in 1981 and featured his biggest song, “We’re in This Love Together,” a smooth jazz-pop track. Jarreau was also a vocalist on the all-star 1985 track, "We Are the World."
Jarreau released 20 albums during his career and is the only Grammy-winning singer to win in the jazz, pop, and rhythm and blues categories.
Jarreau performed many concerts during the past year including one for President Barack Obama at the White House.
The legendary Apollo Theater tweeted, "IN HONOR OF A TRUE JAZZ LEGEND YOUR LEGACY WILL LAST FOREVER"
469 Entries
Russell Earl Mckinney
July 6, 2025
I first encountered Al Jarreau as a guest performer on Saturday Night Live, and brought the LP "Look To The Rainbow" the very next day. I was hooked!
Dellana
June 30, 2025
As I sit hear listening to you 1993 Grammy winning song HEAVEN & EARTH can't help but remember the first time your music was introduced to me. I'm forever grateful and I also had the pleasure of being in your presence at the fabulous Chicago Theatre. You and your music top notch. Thank you for such beautiful memories.
Linda Harrison
June 28, 2025
Al, I still miss you ❤.
Lu
June 20, 2025
His music will live
How you can show support
Takeisha Poole
March 14, 2025
Rest in Peace dear you are so loved by me Takeisha Williams Poole
Donna C. Neil-Demir
September 29, 2024
We will always miss him.love an endearing fan
Donna
Patricia Murrell-Brummett
May 3, 2024
Thanks for sharing your beautiful voice with the world Al. Blessings to your family and friends.
Cora West
February 15, 2024
Sorry for your loss, he will be missed, his voice and music was the best.
Michael Barnes, Indianapolis, IN
January 21, 2024
Al played a show at my college; Vincennes University in 1976. Having seen him on SNL I alerted my cohorts in the schools' touring show choir of his music.
We lined the second row (behind the administration) at his show and knowingly cheered his songs. We immediately sought to meet him after his set and to our great surprise he agreed and did. He asked how we knew him and smiled at me when my friends pointed at me.
Al Jarreau then spent ALL of the headliner (Melissa Manchester's) set talking music and this life "one on one" with me ... a devoted, gob-smacked fan.
I'll never get over what a wonderful, generous and incredibly talented soul that man was! RIP Al Jarreau.
S. Chris Kelly
June 14, 2023
S. Chris Kelly
June 14, 2023
S. Chris Kelly
June 14, 2023
S. Chris Kelly
June 14, 2023
S. Chris Kelly
June 14, 2023
Al Jarreau was the voice of an Era... Absolutely 80s. I shall always remember him with great admiration and fondness.
Stephen Christopher Kelly, M.B.A., M.A., A.B.
Virginia Episcopal School, Class of 1987.
Davidson College, Class of 1991.
Webster University, Classes of 1994 & 1995.
Madneide oliveira
June 2, 2023
Cantor de voz única, suave , timbre maravilhoso... Eu amava algumas de suas músicas,inclusive ouço no meu celular sempre ...Descanse em paz !
Rose McClane
June 11, 2022
Didn’t know him. Never met him. Miss him so much, it’s a physical ache.
April 18, 2020
I was blessed and am am still being blessed by your music.
Robin Ball-Thomas
April 18, 2020
Rest in Gods heavenly Peace. Never will you be forgotten.
Robin Ball-Thomas
April 18, 2020
Where do I begin, my life changed in grammar school when I heard this amazing voice, I was hooked. Your music changed my life ! When I was down you were my go to and still are. I have been cleaning my home to your music for over forty years. You touched my very soul. Your music is played by me every week hours at a time. I told everyone in grammar school you were my husband, I say that to this day March 15th, 2020. When I was expecting my daughters I put the head phone on my stomach so they could hear the beauty in what I was hearing. To this day they both are true fans. God broke the mold with you old friend. YOU blessed my very soul then and now. Until I leave this earth you will be my go to. I have been blessed, you are still blessing me. Robin Ball-Thomas ( Heaven is being blessed )
Jon Hendricks
December 8, 2019
It is sad to say that I am now the Elder of the Jon Hendricks clan and I bid you, Al, embraces and blessings from The Muse going forward and sincere heartfelt condolences to your entire family - core and extended. You gave the world your magic freely and unencumbered and whether you - or they - know it or not now, the world will be a better place as a result of your sanctified blessings to us all. You made a huge impression on both my personal and musical life and for that I can never thank you enough. I'm sorry I missed your reunion with my senior in heaven but I will get there for the second show.. coming soon now. Please don't start without me?
Karen Thomas Robinson
May 17, 2019
Still listening to your music...continue to rest in peace...
Jerrie Jones
December 14, 2018
I have always loved you you are my favorite of all times and will always be breaking away your music will live on with me my whole life time I remember getting the chance to meet you in phila and you signed my cd and took a picture with me which I will cheris my whole life love and miss you Rest In Peace thank you for coming into my life with your gift.
yvette strong reid
September 2, 2018
Mr. Al Jarreau, what a gift to the world. Although you are gone, generations will know your music, It was always a special treat seeing you live in NY when I lived there. One of a kind...
Bill Depew
August 31, 2018
His musical legacy . His Joy. He kept me afloat in the darkest of days . I had the privilege of seeing him perform live several times , and he signed an autograph for me. He inspired me to keep on and to reinforce a message in the song "Letter Perfect", live the golden rule . I love this man.
Kay Collins
August 26, 2018
The album "Look to the Rainbow" has been my go-to music for 40+ yrs.
I fell in love with the music and the singer and went to many of his concerts here in Boston: one on Boston Common (outside, no covering) when a thunder storm arose-we stayed, became drenched in rain,well worth it.
The last time I saw Mr Jarreau was at opening night for a club at Patriot Place-the venue was intimate and wonderful.
He is forever in my heart.
Fortune McLemore
June 14, 2018
How could you NOT love Al Jarreau??
Marion Mathis
May 5, 2018
What a Gift! I believe he was "The Greatest Vocal Artist" of a lifetime. No comparison, now singing with the Angels in Heaven! Rejoicing in Song.
Nia Flippen
April 28, 2018
I know this is a little late, but better late than never. I grew up listening to Mr Jarreau scat on my dad's reel to reel. His voice was one of a kind and unmistakable. I loved his song morning and even got to see him at the Hampton Jazz festival some years ago. The world will certainly miss his musical talent. I rejoice now that in the future I will see him again. Joh 5:28, 29; 11:25.
March 12, 2018
May the love of friends and family carry you through your time of grief.
January 14, 2018
You will be missed.
Cindy Davidson
December 29, 2017
I'm sure he's singing in heaven..I.just want to say how much he filled my heart with his music. I was happy to have met him once and he seemed to have a very gentle soul.
Cindra
Peter Sion
December 14, 2017
you have left an impact on my life in music. I play your music everyday that brings happiness to every day. Thank you so much for all you've done.
December 13, 2017
Iconic, legendary, extraordinary, prolific, once-in-a-lifetime!! No words can adequately describe this Great Vocalist/Musician! Have loved Mr. Jarreau's music since 1981, my junior year of college at Virginia State University!! Had the privilege of seeing him perform at The Wolf Trap Theater in Northern Virginia multiple times! Also saw him at Chene Park Amphitheatre Park in Detroit in the early 90's! Never disappointed; EVER! Rest Peacefully Brother Al..............
Sharon Jackson
December 13, 2017
Sharon jackson
December 13, 2017
My favorite singer follow his music since I was 17 years of age beadsoncanvas Ford performing art center, I was singing to him heaven and earth. I will see him in heaven sharon
Tammy Maras
December 2, 2017
Your voice will be greatly missed!
Karen
October 24, 2017
I am so very sorry for the loss of your husband, father. My husband and I dated to the first album. We loved Mr. Jarreau, we saw him in concert several times. His music lives on. Please continue to allow this verse to comfort you. And he will wipe out every tear from their eyes, and death will be no more, neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore. The former things have passed away.
Erica Williams
October 19, 2017
My condolences to his family & fans. He had a style of his own, that was so unique and very enjoyable "full of relaxation" and I'm in shock that this icon has transitioned as I'm just finding out about his death eight months later (I've seen no news footage whatsoever.) He was a very private person whom we've come to know and love through his music. I will never forget you.
#Gone2Soon
Kenny Wilkerson
September 27, 2017
Al was simply an Awesome Talent with so much Grace and Style. a pure lyrical genius; all in which makes him a Musical Legend. Certainly will be missed!
judi kovach
September 19, 2017
I saw u in concert several times. You were an amazing entertainer with the most beautiful voice. I will always remember those high notes they were awesome. May ur family find comfort in knowing how u touched the world and brought happiness to so many. Rest in peace u will never be forgotten.
one of the greatest times in my Life!!
Debra Gray-Turpin
August 16, 2017
Vanessa Bennett London
July 4, 2017
Rest in peace your music is the soundtrack to my life
Eddie Santiago
June 18, 2017
When child, I grew up with his music an it inspired me to became a professional musician. When I learned that he was gone I was completely in shock. My sons later learned to appreciate his greatness and genius. His legacy will last forever in our hearts and for future generations. RIP!
Joi Pablo
June 18, 2017
I love your music. I will miss you. You rest as you are now in God's world. Continue to look down as you sing your songs to us. With love always , Joi
Ruth Loyo
June 18, 2017
Thanks for the your musicial gifts.
You will be missed..
Loved him dearly. This pic sits on my fireplace
Coretta Garner
June 14, 2017
Me and Al at the Rosebud Restaurant in Chicago
Coretta Garner
June 14, 2017
Peter Sion
June 8, 2017
Al will truly be missed!!! His music lives on in our hearts! Bless you Mr. Jarreau'
Peter
Pamela Toone-Deloatch
June 4, 2017
His music was during a great time in my life and his music made it just that much more enjoyable! Thank you!
JEANETTE GLENN
June 2, 2017
my name is cha.cha
I LOVE HIS SONGS
I WILL ALWAYS PLAY HIS MUSIC
THERE WILL BE NO ONE ON THIS EARTH
THAT CAN REPLACE HIS VOICE AND SONGS
MR JARREAU IS A GIFT
I LOVE HEAR HIS LOVE SONGS WHEN I AM
ALONE ON THE BEACH WATCHING THE WAVES
Patrick Minnix
June 1, 2017
I loved me some Al Jarreau! Seen him in concert twice and listened to his all the time. I was in the United States Navy in the early 80's and he was always playing in my cassette recorder. We have lost a Great one!! RIP- Patrick J. Minnix- Buffalo,Tx
Mosby Mitchell
May 28, 2017
GO on angles wings to rest. I went to an Al Jarreau concert in Orlando, FL in 1989! "EUROPEAN TOUR" was the T-Shrt I prshd (stl hv it) Hv Loved his music ev snc.
Angela Minear
May 27, 2017
Al it was so great meeting you at University of Iowa College of Education last year You were truly a gentle and kind spirit and we were indeed gifted when you were here to sing to us like a songbird. Your music and legacy shall forever live onward and rise upward. Rest In Peace.
Ike McNeill
May 27, 2017
RIP
Bernadine Saunders
May 8, 2017
I am heart broken! Just learned of his death today.One of the smoothest jazz musicians ever!RIP...
Pat Grupinski
May 7, 2017
That magnificent voice, how lucky we were to know that the voice was only half as wonderful as the man himself. What joy he gave to all of us. God bless al n his family.
Shirley Satterfield-Perkins
May 2, 2017
He was the best! Al Jarreau was my all time favorite artist. What a delight to hear him!!! Remember the days when he would have concerts with David Sanborn. The best album in the world is his "All Fly Home." I recall meeting him at a concert in Denton, TX a few years ago. All my adult life, I have wanted to meet Al Jarreau. Well, I finally did and even got a nice facial touch and autograph. He was exactly how I predicted him to be in person. Genuinely NICE!!!! God bless and the angels got that scat now! :)
Helen Burdett
April 26, 2017
Only just learned of his passing with great sorrow. I loved his voice and his style so very much. Played his music over and over. He made me very happy.
Rest in peace Al. My condolences to is family.
Helen burdett
Brenda Adams
April 23, 2017
Al Jarreau was truly a musical genius and entertainment icon, and will be greatly missed. I am thankful to him for my all time favorite song of his, After All. To the family, my thoughts and prayers go out to you, always. A faithful fan and admirer...
Charlene Brown
April 23, 2017
RIP. He was my favorite jazz singer, he had such a smooth and beautiful voice. He will be terribly missed. My condolences to his family, I will keep you lifted up in my prayers.
Carol S.
April 18, 2017
It's been 2 months and I still can't believe it. I always thought I would see you perform one more time. My continued condolences to Susan and Ryan. You are sorely missed "I still feel you in my soul."
Valerie Craig
April 17, 2017
RIP, I will always love your music
Louis Wilkerson
April 17, 2017
My Condolences And Prayers For The Family. The World Has Lost An Extraordinary And Gifted Human Being.
S.
April 15, 2017
His songs brought much joy- one of my favorite singers, will be sorely missed. Condolences to his wife and son. S-Brooklyn,NY
S.
April 15, 2017
His songs brought much joy with his songs- one of my favorite singers, will be sorely missed. S-Brooklyn,NY
Sherman Sville
April 13, 2017
My old friend!!!!! Job well done. Brought so much joy to my life in lyrics and songs.
Rose Hinton
April 11, 2017
al Jarreau was one of the most influential musicians in my life I cannot imagine not growing up from high school through college thru married life with out his music
Rose Holland Hinton(Baton Rouge LA)
Mary Weitz
April 11, 2017
I can't believe I won't get to see you live one more time! I have loved your singing for decades. Your music spoke to my soul and I will miss you, knowing your feet don't grace the planet any longer. I do find some solace now that you will be "touching the face of God."Sing on in the afterworld, dear man. Much love goes with you...
Monisa Cole
April 10, 2017
One man that had so much Charisma and class, I enjoyed so many of your songs. A few of my favorite, Good Morning, All or Nothing At All, 10 K High. I will miss this man, he was such a wonderful different type of entertainer. My you rest in peace in the arms of Jesus Christ. We love you, but God love you like no other. God bless your family and close friends.
*MuSic FaDa WoLRd*
Garry Moore
April 10, 2017
Love you forever Al!!!
Khaled Mujtabaa
April 8, 2017
My condolences to Jarreau's family and friends. When he sang it was if he was sharing his very soul. There are two singers that overwhelmed me with their imagination and creativity, Sarah Vaughan and Al Jarreau. Rest in peace. You gave us your best right up to the end of your life. Thanks!
April 6, 2017
To the family and friends:
One of my best friends taught me about the music of Mr. Al Jarreau. I will always be grateful for that. Mr. Jarreau and his music will be deeply missed. May the God of all comfort be with you during this time of sorrow.
Naydja CoJoe
April 5, 2017
What a Blessing it was to have seen, heard and met you....Still kind of unreal...RIP
Stephanie Fullwood
April 5, 2017
To Susan and Ryan Al will forever burn in all of us. Thanks for sharing such a wonderful man with us
Sadden by your passing
Stephanie Fullwood
April 5, 2017
As a teenager I feel deeply in love with Mr. Jarreau style of music. I live in anchorage Alaska now and his music continues to take me around the city on a daily bases. I'm sadden by his passing but he will live in me forever. RIH gone but not forgotten. A true die hard fan Stephanie Fullwood Anchorage Alaska
C Holden
April 5, 2017
Great life Great music :In your sorrow,may there be peace...In your thoughts ,may there be love... In your hearts, may there be healing .Psalm 147:3 God promise :"He heals the brokenhearted;He binds up their wounds"
Harriet Clay
April 2, 2017
Al Jarreau you left behind beautiful music for my listening pleasure. Rest In Heavenly Peace. God bless your family at this difficult time.
Tumon Bay, Guam misses you
K J
April 2, 2017
Rest On My Brother you are truly missed...KJ
Beverly Blair
April 1, 2017
I love your music,,can't believe you are gone.
Dave Gregorchik
March 31, 2017
Never met Al but if anything like his music: gifted, fun, uplifting, unbiased, loved the Lord and therefore all people, famous for saying at end of concerts "See you in church!"
Barry Goldstein
March 30, 2017
I met Al many times sat next to him on a plane from Dallas to Houston what a wonderful man amazing voice to Susan and Ryan my prayers go out to you I miss him as you do he is the best Sincerely BARRY Goldstein
MY IST LOVE OF JAZZ MUSIC
ELAINE BYRD
March 28, 2017
DEAR SUSAN & RYAN. THANK YOU FOR LETTING AND SHARING AL WITH US. ALL THE LOVE SONGS WERE
ACTUALLY WRITTEN AND ASPIRED BY YOU, SUSAN.
HE LOVED GOD. IT AND TRUE LOVE WAS ALWAYS
HEARD IN ALL HIS SONGS. MY HEART HURTS FOR
HIS PASSING. NOW HE SINGS FOR GOD UP CLOSE
AND PERSONAL. THANK GOD FOR AL JARREAU. YOU ONLY MADE ONE OF HIM. NOTHING COULD EVER COMPARE. THROUGH IT ALL MY FAVORITE SONG.
HE DID IT FOR ALL. THANK YOU AL.LOVE YOU FOREVER!!
Kelly Gray
March 28, 2017
Rest in heavenly peace Mr. Jarreau
I loved your music and your voice. I pray your family finds peace and comfort. You were a legend!
john deleo
March 26, 2017
big al, you got me through a tough period of my life in the 80's with your beautiful music. I've been loving you ever since. you'll always be the greatest. I love you pal. I know i didn't know you but you knew me. r.i.p.
Rhonda
March 26, 2017
Thank you..Thank you..Thank you, Mr Jarreau. Your amazing music brought me such joy and will continue to do so.
Connie Barnett
March 25, 2017
I so enjoyed Al Jarreau's music. One of my favorite memories of him was attending an outdoor concert of his at the St. Michelle Winery in Woodinville, WA several years ago. My friend & I sat on a blanket in the grass & couldn't help but get up & dance. The best part of the concert was when, in the middle of the concert a train came through right near the winery and was so loud that it was semi drowning out Al's voice. Al stopped & paused for a few seconds & instead of just waiting for the train to pass, he started vocally jazzing along with the sounds of the train clicking along the tracks! It so showed his talent & persevering attitude & wonderful personality. He will be greatly missed, but I have a great memory of one of the most enjoyable concerts I have ever attended. Rest in peace Al.
Gina Lou
March 22, 2017
Rest in Heavenly Peace. Thank you for using your gift to uplift and show love to everyone. You are a perfectionist and mastered your vocals like no other. Your Spirit lives on. You will never be forgotten. My condolences to the Jarreau/Lopez family. One Love
Yogi
March 21, 2017
Now you can truly touch the face of GOD R.I.P.
G b
March 20, 2017
To the family of Mr. Jarreau.. May the great memories you have sustain you during your loss of this great talent who touched so many lives while here. He may be gone, but we can still enjoy his music as it lives on. May God bring you comfort during this time.
Jackie
March 18, 2017
No other performer will ever match Mr Jarreau! He will be missed. May the happy memories of Him bring comfort as his music lives on. And remembering Almighty God's promise to remove sickness and death forever. With heartfelt condolences to the surviving family.
TJ Haggerty
March 15, 2017
It is because of Al Jarreau that I developed a love for smooth jazz. He made really feel music at a deeper level. I was so looking forward to seeing him in Venice in May but GOD had other plans. Rest in Heaven! The world will miss the melodic gifts you shared with us but Heaven is sounding so much better now. My condolences to the Jarreau family and thank you for sharing him with us for so many years.
Margaret Lloyd
March 15, 2017
R.I.P you will be truly missed in this world. I loved your talent and will continue to love your music.
Sandra Jackson-Williams
March 15, 2017
There won't be another musician that will touch all my senses in my lifetime. His music will live on forever and ever! RIP Mr. Jarreau..
March 15, 2017
RIP the greatest. I just had the pleasure of seeing him a year ago. Condolences to the family.
Carla
Lisa S.
March 14, 2017
My brother introduced me to his music. I will listen to his music forever.
Michelle S.
March 13, 2017
His music got me through some of my hardest times. I have seen this man performed over and over again. He is the kind of voice, you can go sleep listening too. Thank you Mr. Al Jarreau, for reminding me that "I too, can touch the face of God"!!
Tanya Simons-Oparah
March 12, 2017
Al will always be a light in the sound track of my life's musical journey. Love him always!
GARY THOMAS
March 12, 2017
THE WHOLE WORLD IS SHOCK OF THE LOST OF ONE OF THE GREATEST JAZZ GREATS OF ALL TIME OUR HEARTS AND PRAYS GOSE OUT TO THE FAMILY MAY GOD BLESS YOU AT THIS TIME YOU WILL BE FOREVER IN OUR HREATS
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