Jazz Icon Roy Ayers Dies at 84, Influencing Hip-Hop & R&B

NEW YORK — Renowned jazz artist Roy Ayers, celebrated for his work as a vibraphonist, keyboardist, composer, and vocalist, passed away at the age of 84. Remembered for his influential 1976 hit “Everybody Loves the Sunshine,” Ayers’ music became a cornerstone in R&B and rap, inspiring artists like Mary J. Blige, N.W.A., Dr. Dre, 2Pac, Mos Def, and Ice Cube.

According to a post from the Ayers family on Facebook, the iconic musician died in New York City on Tuesday following a prolonged illness. “He lived a beautiful 84 years and will be sorely missed,” the message stated.

Throughout his career, Roy Ayers achieved significant success, with 12 of his albums featured on the Billboard 200 charts, including the 1978 album “You Send Me,” which reached No. 48. Another highlight, “The Best of Roy Ayers,” spent 50 weeks on the Contemporary Jazz Album chart, illustrating the enduring appeal of his music.

Even decades after their release, Ayers’ tracks remained influential, appearing in soundtracks like the 2019 film “Queen & Slim.” His track “Running Away” was notably sampled by A Tribe Called Quest in their 1989 work “Description of a Fool,” and by artists such as Big Daddy Kane and Common. Additionally, Ayers’ music infused the works of contemporary artists like Tyler, the Creator and Erykah Badu.

In a 2004 interview with Wax Poetics magazine, Ayers famously commented on his far-reaching impact on music sampling: “Well, I have more sampled hits than anybody. I might not have more samples than James Brown, but I’ve had more sampled hits.”

Ayers’ 1977 album “Lifeline” achieved widespread recognition, reaching No. 9 on the Top R&B/Hip-hop chart and producing the hit single “Running Away,” which became a massive success in clubs.

In 2017, during a trip to Johannesburg, Ayers shared his wisdom with young musicians in Soweto, advising them to stay inspired and determined. He encouraged, “Get serious, be inspired, rap on, keep on and eventually you’ll get it.” Ayers cited musicians like Fela Kuti, Herbie Mann, and Miles Davis as key influences in his musical journey.

Roy Ayers launched his recording career in 1962 with hard bop tenor saxophonist Curtis Amy’s group, later collaborating with jazz flutist Herbie Mann on multiple albums for Atlantic Records. Ayers also contributed significantly to film soundtracks, notably for the blaxploitation movie “Coffy” starring Pam Grier, and collaborated with legends like David “Fathead” Newman from Ray Charles’ orchestra.

In 2017, Roy Ayers joined an illustrious lineup of artists such as Tom Petty, the Shins, and Alabama Shakes at the Arroyo Seco Festival in Los Angeles, showcasing both his timeless appeal and versatility.

Roy Ayers is survived by his wife, Argerie, and their children, Mtume and Ayana Ayers, who carry on his legacy.