Before Carmen Lundy’s second show last night @ Yoshi’s, we were informed that pianist John Hicks had passed. Carmen dedicated both of her shows to John. I took this photo of him last year when he was playing with Bobby Watson, Kiyoshi Kitagawa, and Victor Lewis at the Healdsburg Jazz Festival. He was so fascinating to watch play because he got so involved that it seemed he was ready to fly off his piano bench. Another great legend has gone home.
As more information about his passing becomes available, I will post it here.
JazzTimes.com: Pianist John Hicks Dies
JoeLovano.com: Remember John Hicks
A great loss for people who know to appreciate his talent. His concentrated way of playing was very motivating for me.