Casey Benjamin career explored as Robert Glasper saxophonist dies aged 45

The family of renowned saxophonist Casey Benjamin announced his passing at the age of 45 on Saturday, March 30, 2024. In a video posted on his Instagram account, they revealed that he had passed away while recovering from surgery.

At the time of writing this article, the specific cause of death for The Robert Glasper Experiment member had not been disclosed. Casey Benjamin’s family also stated that they were still awaiting further information surrounding his death on Saturday.

“We have been deeply touched by the outpouring of love and support from family, friends, and Casey’s esteemed music community. Casey stayed true to the art of his music, and the energy of his spirit will live on in eternity,” the statement added.

The Iconic Saxophone Skills of Casey Benjamin

The individual who won the Grammy Award was born in 1978 in Queens, New York. They developed a strong passion for playing the saxophone at a young age and went on to attend the Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School of Music & Art and Performing Arts.

After graduating from high school, Casey Benjamin played with various jazz groups in his local area. He also had the opportunity to perform with renowned New York musician Arto Lindsay. In the late 1990s, he teamed up with Robert Glasper and eventually became a member of The Robert Glasper Experiment in 2004.

The Grammy Award-winning musical group, The Robert Glasper Experiment, consists of Chris Dave, Derrick Hodge, Robert Glasper, and Benjamin. They have received consecutive Grammy Awards for their albums Black Radio and Black Radio 2.

Although Benjamin was primarily recognized for his mastery of the alto and soprano saxophone, he also delved into the use of synths, keys, and a vocoder (a device that synthesizes musical notes) in his music.

During a 2019 interview with All About Jazz, he expressed his enthusiasm for music and reflected on its significance to him.

“When it comes to music, I tend to be a loner. There’s so many musicians that just sound like each other… I always wanted to stay to myself in some sort of way, because I felt that it would be the most organic way to play music,”Benjamin said.

Casey Benjamin had the opportunity to collaborate with many esteemed figures in the music industry, including Lady Gaga, Nas, Arcade Fire, Kendrick Lamar, and Solange, among other notable names.

Casey Benjamin, in addition to being a member of the Robert Glasper Experiment, co-founded the funk band Heavy alongside Nicole Guiland. The talented musician, who resides in New York, also joined Patrick Stump of Fall Out Boy on tour.

After the death of Casey Benjamin, Robert Glasper issued a statement praising the former as “one of the most gifted and talented individuals ever.”Glasper joined numerous musicians and fans in honoring Benjamin after his family announced his passing.

“He was the epitome of what it means to be unique and one of a kind. The true meaning of a genius at his craft,” Glasper added.

Glasper referred to Benjamin as a sibling as well.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=08O7UT-lmr4

Casey Benjamin “DIG” official music video (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=08O7UT-lmr4)

Derrick Hodge, the electric bass player for The Robert Glasper Experiment, also expressed his gratitude and admiration for Benjamin on Instagram. He credited him for being a source of inspiration and described him as a shining light in his life.

The band’s drummer, Chris Dave, shared a tribute signboard for Benjamin on his official Instagram page.

Fans and fellow musicians mourn the loss of the legendary saxophonist

Casey Benjamin’s passing was announced by their family through an Instagram post. Along with the announcement, they included a link to Memorial Source where numerous fans and musicians offered tributes to the late musician.

Tributes pour in as the saxophonist passes away (Image via Memorial Source)

The family of Benjamin shared in an Instagram post that additional details about the musician’s passing and upcoming memorial service will be provided through Memorial Source’s link. As of the time of writing this article, specific information regarding the funeral arrangements and memorial service has not yet been released to the public.