Roy Haynes, Iconic Jazz Drummer, Passes Away at Age 99

Renowned jazz drummer Roy Haynes, who enjoyed a dynamic career spanning over seven decades, has passed away at the age of 99. His daughter, Leslie Haynes-Gilmore, confirmed his death on November 12th in Nassau County, New York, following a brief illness, as reported by The New York Times.

Born in March 1925 to immigrant parents in Boston's Roxbury neighborhood, Haynes embarked on his musical career as a teenager in the 1940s, performing in local nightclubs. By 1945, he had relocated to New York City and established himself as a professional drummer with Luis Russell's band. He made notable contributions to music through collaborations with revered musicians like saxophonist Lester Young and playing in Charlie Parker’s quintet. His partnership with singer Sarah Vaughan from 1953 to 1958 was marked by memorable performances, and he later worked with illustrious names such as Thelonious Monk, Eric Dolphy, and Stan Getz, People reported.

In the latter part of the 1960s, Haynes collaborated with vibraphonist Gary Burton, starting the jazz-rock ensemble "Hip Ensemble," and released an album under the same name. He continued to break new ground in jazz throughout the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s with artists like Chick Corea and Pat Metheny. Haynes was bestowed with two Grammy Awards for his contributions to jazz – Best Jazz Instrumental Performance, Group in 1989, and Best Jazz Instrumental Performance, Individual or Group in 2000. Lovingly dubbed "Snap Crackle" for his distinct drumming style, Haynes left a lasting impression on the world of jazz.

In honor of his contributions, he was awarded the French Chevalier des l’Ordres Artes et des Lettres in 1996 and, in 1998, received the American Drummers Achievement Award alongside Elvin Jones, Max Roach, and Louis Bellson. His discography concluded with the 2011 album "Roy-Alty."

Haynes' influence and legacy live on through his daughter, his sons Craig, also a drummer, and Graham, a cornetist, alongside his eight grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. 

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