Chick Corea, Winner of 23 Grammys, Has Died at 79 - Read His Farewell Message to Fans

Chick Corea, one of the most legendary pianists in the jazz music world, has died at the age of 79.

A rep for Corea said on his Facebook page that he died on Tuesday (February 9) from “a rare form of cancer which was only discovered very recently.”

Corea was the winner of 23 Grammy Awards and is number 8 on the list of most Grammys won ever. Before he died, he wrote a farewell message to fans.

Corea said in his statement, “I want to thank all of those along my journey who have helped keep the music fires burning bright. It is my hope that those who have an inkling to play, write, perform or otherwise, do so. If not for yourself then for the rest of us. It’s not only that the world needs more artists, it’s also just a lot of fun.”

He continued, “And to my amazing musician friends who have been like family to me as long as I’ve known you: It has been a blessing and an honor learning from and playing with all of you. My mission has always been to bring the joy of creating anywhere I could, and to have done so with all the artists that I admire so dearly—this has been the richness of my life.”

We’re sending our thoughts and condolences to Chick‘s loved ones during this difficult time.