Renowned jazz drummer Roy Haynes, celebrated as one of the most recorded percussionists in music history, has died at the age of 99. His daughter, Leslie Haynes-Gilmore, confirmed to the New York Times that he passed on November 12 in Nassau County, N.Y., following a brief illness.
Born on March 13, 1925, in Boston’s Roxbury neighborhood, Haynes embarked on his musical journey in the early 1940s, turning professional in 1945. His remarkable career began with performances alongside saxophonist Lester Young and as a member of Charlie Parker’s quintet from 1949 to 1952. Though he was offered a spot in Duke Ellington’s band in 1952, Haynes turned it down to work in smaller ensembles, where he felt he had more freedom for musical expression.
Haynes' discography as a sideman is extensive and illustrious. He collaborated with legendary figures including Miles Davis, Sarah Vaughan, Sonny Rollins, Thelonious Monk, Art Blakey, Ray Charles, and Stan Getz, among many others. Alongside his sideman work, Haynes made a significant mark as a bandleader, beginning with his debut record, Busman’s Holiday, in 1954.
Throughout his career, Haynes garnered numerous accolades. His first Grammy nomination came in 1988 for Best Jazz Instrumental Performance, Group, for his work with Chick Corea, and he ultimately won two Grammys from a total of eight nominations. In 2012, he was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Grammys, followed by a similar award from the Jazz Foundation of America in 2019.
Beyond these achievements, Haynes was also recognized internationally. In 1996, he was appointed Chevalier de l’Ordre des Arts et des Lettres by the French government, and he received honorary doctorates from both Berklee College of Music and the New England Conservatory. DownBeat magazine inducted him into their Hall of Fame in 2004, reflecting his immense influence and repeated recognition in the jazz community.
Haynes’ legacy will live on through his contributions to jazz and his trailblazing style that influenced generations of drummers and musicians.
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