The jazz world is in shock and dismay at the news of the passing of acclaimed jazz guitarist Russell Malone who passed away suddenly at the age of 60 while on tour in Japan.

The news of his passing broke on Friday afternoon as various members of the jazz community posted tributes to Malone on social media. It was later confirmed by legendary bassist Ron Carter, who Malone was on tour with as part of the Golden Striker Trio, in a social media post stating:

“Dear Ladies and Gentlemen, I am currently on a tour that began as The Golden Striker Trio, consisting of Russell Malone, Donald Vega, and Yours Truly. On the 23rd of August Mr. Malone suffered a heart attack upon completion of our performance at Blue Note Tokyo. Donald Vega and I are completing this tour as a duo … in respect and honor of the memory of Mr. Malone …”

Born on November 8, 1963 in Albany, Georgia, Malone developed an interest in guitar playing as a child when his mother gave him a toy guitar as a gift. But it was a television performance of George Benson performing with the “King of Swing” Benny Goodman that inspired a 12-year old Malone to play the guitar.

A self-taught guitarist, Malone stepped out on the jazz scene in the late 1980s playing with organist Jimmy Smith. In 1990, he joined forces with Harry Connick Jr. which elevated Malone as a major player in the jazz world. He would play on seminal Connick albums such as 1990’s We Are in Love and 1991’s Blue Light Red Light. Malone was also a frequent collaborator  and tour mate of Canada’s own Diana Krall, appearing on eight of her 15 studio albums including her most recent release, This Dream of You (2020).

Malone also collaborated with the late David Sanborn, Christian McBride, Will Downing, Natalie Cole, Benny Green and countless others. As a bandleader, he released 15 studio albums and appeared as a session player on over 70 albums during the course of his career.

Tributes have been pouring in remembrance of Malone from collaborators, colleagues and friends such as Harry Connick Jr. who shared his tribute on Instagram:

“i’ll miss you so much, russell… i remember recording this song with you – just you and me, alone in the studio. you brought so much joy and excellence to me – and the world – with your music. i thank God i was able to call you my friend. i love you forever.”

Bill Charlap also shared his memory of his late friend:

“Russell Malone was soulful, sharp, brilliant, funny, warm, generous, and filled with light and love. A master musician, a natural teacher and a great friend. His passing is an immeasurable loss to our entire community. I will miss him dearly.”

Malone is survived by his wife and two children as well as his mother and his siblings. The Golden Striker Trio consisting of bassist Ron Carter and pianist Donald Vega will continue their tour in memory of Malone. No funeral arrangements have been announced at this time.