Ellis Marsalis Jr. has left us, but he also left an indelible mark on the jazz scene and the wider music community.
The New Orleans icon taught generations of musicians in his hometown, many of whom are turning to social media to pay their respects.
A multi-talented artist, Marsalis became the first chair of the now-storied jazz studies program at the University of New Orleans in 1989 and his name adorns the Ellis Marsalis Center, a nonprofit music and performing arts facility in New Orleans’ 9th Ward.
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However, it was tutelage of his six sons — Branford, Wynton, Ellis III, Delfeayo, Mboya Kenyatta and Jason — that earned him the title of patriarch of the First Family of Jazz.
Ellis Marsalis was “a legend,” the city’s mayor LaToya Cantrell remarked. “He was the prototype of what we mean when we talk about New Orleans jazz.”
John Legend, Dr. John and Apple CEO Tim Cook led tributes to the late jazz great.
He was the patriarch of such an influential musical family. Thank you, Ellis Marsalis
— John Legend (@johnlegend) April 2, 2020
"Things were really solid back in the game, funk and Dixieland in every club. Even the hip jazz musicians like Ellis Marsalis were there, playing the real music," Dr. John told @RollingStone in 2015. RIP, Ellis.
— Dr. John (@akadrjohn) April 2, 2020
Ellis Marsalis was a true legend. In his music, his passion for New Orleans and his steadfast dedication to education, he showed us all the power of community. He’ll be missed dearly. My thoughts are with his sons who carry on his legacy. @EMCMnola pic.twitter.com/ty68Ipo6fw
— Tim Cook (@tim_cook) April 2, 2020
And yet more: Ellis Marsalis, super-talented New Orleans piano master and sire of a flock of major musical talents, has passed. RIP.
— Harry Shearer (@theharryshearer) April 2, 2020
With the deepest and most profound sadness, I grieve the passing of a true jazz master, icon of our culture, historic in the story of New Orleans, and profound in his influence in the evolution of music along with many lives. Father. Mentor. Teacher. Genius. RIP Ellis Marsalis 💔 pic.twitter.com/POZ4Yg8Usl
— Wendell Pierce (@WendellPierce) April 2, 2020