LOS ANGELES (AP) — Herb Ellis, the critically acclaimed jazz guitarist who played with such luminaries as Ella Fitzgerald and was a member once of the celebrated Oscar Peterson Trio, died Sunday, his son said. He was 88.
Mitch Ellis, the musician's son, told The New York Times and Los Angeles Times that his father died of complications associated with Alzheimer's disease at his Los Angeles home.
Ellis, born in 1921 in Farmersville, Texas, was regarded as one of the finest jazz guitar soloists. He mixed bebop with country twang in a career that spanned six decades.
After an early stint playing with big band leader Jimmy Dorsey, Ellis and two Dorsey colleagues formed the Soft Winds trio, whose "Detour Ahead" became a jazz standard, recorded most memorably by Billie Holiday.
"As jazz has changed through the years and different styles have developed, Ellis always remained true to the form he played from the beginning," Recording Academy President and CEO Neil Portnow said in a statement. "The jazz world has lost a great musician, and we extend our deepest sympathies to his family, friends and all who enjoyed his work."
Ellis attracted the most notoriety performing with the Oscar Peterson Trio for five years from 1953 to 1958 with pianist Peterson and bassist Ray Brown. He later went on to tour and record with Fitzgerald and was a frequent participant in record producer Norman Granz's all-star Jazz at the Philharmonic touring shows.
Ellis is survived by his wife Patti, son, daughter and three grandchildren.
Copyright © 2010 The Associated Press
Dearest Patti,
I remember hearing that Herb had gone to be with The Lord but never knew how to contact you. I thought you had moved from California. I will not forget how you shared with me when Blue Mitchell, who was a friend, passed. I hope you are doing well. I live in Colorado.
Much .
Noreen
Noreen Jackson
July 07, 2017 | Denver, CO
Valenda
December 30, 2016 | Indianapolis, IN
Herb was a great man with a wonderful heart. My best to Mitch and all the family
Christine Berry Solzberg
August 18, 2010
Dear Herb's family - since 15 years old, myself and a group of friends were obsessed with Jazz guitar. We sent hours watching Herb and Barney in the early 70's when the clubs weren't crowded. He was always gracious, warm, and curious. We saw him at the Hyatt in Indianapolis, at the Jazz Showcase in Chicago, Seattle, Huntington Beach and more. He always remembered us!
I am in search of a mailing address and curious about a painting a friend gave to him and it's where-abouts. ...
Blair Karsch
April 28, 2010 | Indianapolis, IN
In these last days that we are facing so many are losing that battle of life. He was a great musician that gave us pleasure and comfort. Now we have to look for comfort in the one whom Never dies, our Mighty Creater. Ps 83:18 (2 cor. 1:2-4;John 17:3)
yolanda
April 10, 2010
Thank God for giving the world such a fabulous musician as Herb Ellis and thank God he was such a disciplined and creative musician dedicated to his art. May God bless and keep your family always.
Tommie Taylor
April 09, 2010 | Phoenix, AZ
May the peace of God that excels all thoughts comfort you during this time of need. (philipians4:7)
sincerly
Marley
April 09, 2010 | Jacksonville, FL
I would like to offer my deepest sympathies to the family of Herb Ellis. Although we haven’t met, all of us have experienced the loss of a loved one. I am so sorry for your loss. Please know that you are never alone. Turn to the Holy Scriptures for guidance and to help soothe your heart. Psalms 34;18 assures us that God is near to those broken at heart and crushed in spirit. Please accept my deepest sympathies.
Derrell
April 08, 2010 | CA
God bless you and thank you Herb for all of the great music you left us!
K Scott!
April 07, 2010