Grammy-winning jazz singer Cassandra Wilson dies

Jackson, Mississippi: Grammy-winning American jazz singer, songwriter and producer Cassandra Wilson passed away on Wednesday. He was 70.

Born on December 4, 1955, Wilson became one of the most acclaimed jazz vocalists of her generation, known for her distinctive voice and for blending jazz with blues, country and folk influences.

She transitioned peacefully at her home, surrounded by her family, close friends, and her long-time manager Robert Torre, according to official statements shared with WBGO, a public radio station licensed to Newark, New Jersey.

Wilson won two Grammy Awards during her career and was named “America’s Best Singer” by Time magazine in 2001.

A native of Jackson, Wilson emerged as a prominent figure in the late 1980s through the Steve Coleman-led M-Base Collective before establishing herself as a major solo recording artist.

Her music frequently drew from the blues and other American musical traditions. She recorded interpretations of songs associated with artists including Robert Johnson, Son House and Muddy Waters, while also exploring folk, country and popular music.

Her extensive discography included albums such as She Who Weeps, which featured “Out Loud (Jeris’ Blues)”, a song dedicated to her son Jeris.

Wilson was married to Anthony Wilson from 1981 to 1983. She had a son, Jeris. From 2000 to 2003, she was married to actor Isaach de Bankolé.