The Philadelphia music scene lost a beloved and talented musician recently. The music world mourned his passing. The Philadelphia-born jazz singer had a long and successful career, working with jazz legend Miles Davis. Among his best-known songs are "Juicy Fruit" and "Storm," which were sampled by numerous Hip Hop artists. Death is the first of many tributes to Mtume.
Philadelphia jazz musician James Mtume has passed away at age 76. Born in 1946 as James Forman, he changed his name to Mtume in the late 1960s when he moved to California to study. Mtume began his career as a pianist and percussionist with Alkebu-Lan - Land of the Blacks and later became a member of Miles Davis's band. His album, "On the Corner", was one of his most popular recordings, with Miles playing with him and recording his compositions.
Mr. Mtume is best known for his work with jazz legends, including Dizzy Gillespie and Duke Ellington. He also recorded with Lonnie Liston Smith, Dizzy Gillespie, and Roberta Flack. His song "Never Knew Love Like This Before" won a Grammy for best jazz vocal. After his time in the studio, Mtume became an on-air personality for Kiss-FM in New York City. During the '90s, Mtume continued his career as a producer, earning credits with R. Kelly, Mary J. Blige, and K-Ci & JoJo.
