Jazz Legend Chuck Mangione Dies at 84
Rochester, NY — Renowned jazz musician Chuck Mangione has died at the age of 84. The celebrated flugelhorn and trumpet virtuoso passed away peacefully from natural causes earlier this week at his home in Rochester, New York, his manager confirmed.
Mangione’s musical career spanned more than five decades, during which he left a lasting impact on both jazz and popular music. Known for his warm, melodic tone and signature flugelhorn sound, Mangione rose to international fame in the 1970s with the hit composition “Feels So Good,” which became a crossover success and a defining track of the smooth jazz era.
A two-time Grammy Award winner, Mangione earned his first Grammy in 1977 for Best Instrumental Composition with “Bellavia,” named after his mother. He received a second Grammy in 1979 for Children of Sanchez, a sweeping soundtrack that showcased his compositional depth and emotional range.
Born and raised in Rochester, Mangione was deeply rooted in the city’s musical community. He studied at the Eastman School of Music and maintained close ties to the institution throughout his life, often performing benefit concerts and mentoring young musicians.
Beyond his chart-topping hits and critically acclaimed albums, Mangione was known for his passionate live performances, distinctive style, and unwavering commitment to bringing jazz to wider audiences.
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