IN MEMORIAM

Some, like Jimmy Heath, had storied careers and left decades of legacy behind them. Others, like Corey Benjamin, left us unexpectedly — far too soon.

It was an honor to be present at Frankie Beverly’s last performance; he passed just a few weeks later. Roy Hargrove was already quite ill, but when he picked up his horn, it was as if nothing was wrong. Chick Corea was one of the giants — even if you don’t know his music, you likely know his name. Eddie Gale was a legend too, having played with many of the greats, including Coltrane, though outside the Bay Area he was never widely known.

All of these musicians changed music. I hope this collection does more than record — I hope it honors.