NOLA Jazz Patriarch Ellis Marsalis Dies With COVID-19 Symptoms
Legendary New Orleans Jazz musician Ellis Marsalis is the latest celebrity to succumb to complications from coronavirus. Marsalis was also a famed composer and educator, who had a regular gig at the famous Snug Harbor Club on Frenchman Street in New Orleans for 30 years. He also made many, many appearances at New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival. He is father to six sons, all of which are accomplished musicians themselves. Wynton, who is artistic director of jazz at New York's Lincoln Center, and Branford, who helmed the Tonight Show band, and also worked as a touring member of Sting's band.
Although the legendary 85 year old was hospitalized with COVID-19 symptoms, the test results have yet to come back. His son Ellis III told the Associated Press, via NOLA.com "Pneumonia was the actual thing that caused his demise. But it was pneumonia brought on by COVID-19"
Check out the video from Live at the Lincoln Center below. Ellis Marsalis was a true Louisiana treasure, and his musical legacy will remain with us always.