Grammy-winning jazz producer Michael Cuscuna dies: Reflecting on his legacy
Michael Cuscuna, a celebrated figure in the jazz world and three-time Grammy winner, reportedly died last Saturday. He was 75. His death was confirmed by Blue Note, a record label where he played a significant role in producing reissues and studio sessions. Per reports, Cuscuna succumbed to cancer at his residence in Stamford, Connecticut. The news was shared by Grammy-winning recording artist Billy Vera, a close friend and frequent collaborator of Cuscuna's.
Cuscuna was a progressive rock deejay at New York's 'WXPN'
Born in Stamford in 1948, Cuscuna developed his musical skills during his teenage years. He played the drums, saxophone, and flute before embarking on a diverse career in the music industry. His career included roles as a rock DJ at New York's WXPN and later WABC-FM, as well as Philadelphia's WMMR. Cuscuna's deep understanding of music history also led him to pen liner notes for albums by artists such as Buddy Guy, Chris Smither, Ken Nordine, and Bonnie Raitt.
He was involved in several notable commercial projects
Cuscuna was involved in several commercial projects. These include the 1970 album Buddy & the Juniors, featuring Guy, Junior Wells, and Junior Mance, and Raitt's 1972 album Give It Up. In 1982, he co-founded Mosaic Records with Charlie Lourie, an ex-CBS executive and Blue Note's new head of marketing. The inspiration for Mosaic Records came when Cuscuna discovered 28 minutes of unreleased Thelonious Monk material from his Blue Note years.
A celebrated three-time Grammy winner
A titan in jazz production, Cuscuna clinched three Grammy Awards during his illustrious career. His accolades include Best Historical Album in 1993 for Nat King Cole's The Complete Capitol Trio Recordings, Best Album Notes in 1998 for Miles Davis's The Complete Columbia Studio Recordings, and another Best Historical Album in 2002 for Billie Holiday's Lady Day: The Complete Billie Holiday on Columbia (1933-1944). Additionally, since 1984, he spearheaded all reissues for Blue Note records.
Blue Note's heartfelt tribute to Cuscuna
Blue Note expressed their heartfelt tribute to Cuscuna on their social media platforms. They stated, "It is not easy to bid farewell to a best friend, knowing that it's a final goodbye. Michael Cuscuna was one of the best friends this music has had." Cuscuna leaves behind his wife, Lisa, children Max and Lauren, and grandchildren Nicolas and Penelope. His legacy continues through his significant contributions to the jazz world and the music industry at large.
