In a statement issued today, Blue Note announced the death of pianist Andrew Hill, one of the most gifted and uncompromising jazz composers and players of the post-bop era:
The Blue Note Records Family is very saddened to announce the passing of the great pianist and composer Andrew Hill. Andrew passed away early this morning, April 20, 2007, after battling lung cancer for several years. He was 75 years old.
Andrew was considered "the next Thelonious Monk" by Blue Note founder Alfred Lion, and over a 44 year association with the label, beginning with his debut in 1963, he made what will forever stand as some of the most groundbreaking recordings in Jazz history, including such classics as Point of Departure, Black Fire, Judgment! , Passing Ships, and Time Lines, his triumphant 2006 return to the label that was named the #1 album of the year by Ben Ratliff of The New York Times, who described it as "a master's record, quiet, daring and magnificent."
Our hearts go out to his wife Joanne, and the countless musicians, friends and fans that his music and spirit touched over the course of his remarkable life.
Sincerely,
The Blue Note Records Family