Saxophonist Phil Woods, Heard on Recordings of Billy Joel & More, Dies at 83

By: Sep. 30, 2015
Get Access To Every Broadway Story

Unlock access to every one of the hundreds of articles published daily on BroadwayWorld by logging in with one click.




Existing user? Just click login.

The New York Times reports that top also saxophonist Phil Woods, who was featured in the recordings of Billy Joel, Paul Simon and many others, passed away on Tuesday, September 29th at the age of 83. According to his longtime booking agent, Joel Chriss the musician died in East Stroudsburg, PA due to complications of emphysema.

The Recording Academy has released the following statement on his passing:

Sept. 30, 2015

Four-time GRAMMY® Award winner Phil Woods was one of the top alto saxophonists and a leading figure in the jazz world. A master of the bop style, Woods was also a gifted clarinetist, bandleader and composer.

His pioneering sound was revered by many and was showcased in hits such as Billy Joel's "Just the Way You Are," Steely Dan's "Doctor Wu" and Paul Simon's "Have a Good Time." Our creative community has lost a true musical treasure, and our deepest condolences go out to his family, friends, and all those who had the privilege and honor of working with him.

Neil Portnow
President/CEO
The Recording Academy

Photo courtesy of Phil Woods Official Web Site



Videos