RIP Steve Ellington

[bensdrums]

Steve Ellington passed on today. Steve was a huge part of the jazz scene here in Montgomery AL and cultivated a lot of jazz talent here and everywhere. He was a big influence on me and very supportive and kind. It was certainly one of the greater privileges of my life to learn from him. For those of you unfamiliar with him, here's a discog I found on allmusic today (certainly not complete):

http://www.allmusic.com/artist/steve-ellington-mn0000034599

[Paul Marangoni]

Sorry to hear this. What happened?

[bensdrums]

Cancer. Steve didn't have health insurance so proper care was tough to come by when it came to keeping the cancer at bay, especially at his advanced age.

[Paul Marangoni]

Oh no, not another one. All I've been hearing lately is cancer. With powerful, evil corporations like Monsanto running amok, I think it will only get worse. I hope he didn't suffer too badly. I did a quick search and found that he played with many of the greats in jazz over the years. It's great that you were able to study with him.

[bensdrums]

Here is a fine portrait of Steve. This video is a good example of the kind of mentor he was to so many musicians.

Here's a nice clip of Steve playing Giant Steps with Michel Petrucciani (probably 90s-ish).