“A Beautiful, Luminous Human Being,” Snarky Puppy Keyboardist Shaun Martin Dies at 45
Snarky Puppy keyboardist Shaun Martin has died at 45, Variety magazine reports.
Martin died Aug. 4 after more than a year of “constant medical supervision” following a 2023 stroke, the magazine reported.
“We lost a music legend and, more importantly, a beautiful, luminous human being,” Snarky Puppy said in a statement.
“Shaun Martin touched so many people during his life and through the beautiful immortality of music, will continue to do so,” the band said. “There’s so much that can be said but words can’t do justice. Rest in peace.”
Martin’s credits also include production and collaborative work with Erykah Badu, Chaka Kahn and gospel singer Kirk Franklin.
“Shaun Martin (was) one of the most astonishing and joyous musicians I’ve ever known,” Eric Persing said.
Michelle Willis, who toured with Snarky Puppy and played with some of its members in David Crosby’s last band, said she’s “never seen anyone have so much fun and bring the audience along with them onstage” like Martin did.
“I’m still in shock that he’s gone,” she said.
8/6/24
