Jazz legend Benny Golson, tenor saxophonist and composer of classic songs like “Killer Joe” and “Along Came Betty,” has passed away at the age of 95.
Benny Golson passed away on Saturday at his Manhattan home following a brief illness, according to his longtime agent, Jason Franklin per AP News.
Throughout his seven-decade career, Golson collaborated with some of jazz’s greatest icons, including Dizzy Gillespie, Lionel Hampton, and John Coltrane. While he was an accomplished performer, Golson’s legacy was largely defined by his masterful compositions.

Born on January 25, 1929, in Philadelphia, Golson came of age in the bebop era, influenced by the likes of Charlie Parker and Dizzy Gillespie. His early career saw him performing with legendary bands, including those of Lionel Hampton and Art Blakey. He soon established himself not only as a gifted performer but also as one of jazz’s most significant composers. His works, including classics such as “Killer Joe,” “Along Came Betty,” “Whisper Not,” and “I Remember Clifford,” have become jazz standards, performed by countless artists across generations.

While Golson’s tenor saxophone playing was elegant and fluid, he built much of his reputation through his compositions, which reflected his ability to blend hard bop’s rhythmic drive with melodic sophistication. His music often carried an introspective quality, with pieces like “I Remember Clifford” paying tribute to fallen friends such as Clifford Brown, a fellow Philadelphia-born trumpeter.

In addition to his compositions and performances, Golson was a key figure in jazz education. He mentored younger musicians and remained a respected voice within the jazz community well into his later years. He was one of the few musicians to seamlessly straddle both the performance and compositional aspects of jazz with equal mastery.

Throughout his career, Golson worked with some of the most iconic names in jazz, including John Coltrane, Art Farmer, and Benny Goodman. His influence extended beyond the stage and studio to film and television, where his compositions were featured in soundtracks and commercials.
Golson leaves behind his wife, Bobbie Golson, his daughter Brielle Golson and several grandchildren.

Rest In Peace