NEW YORK — The jazz world mourns the loss of Lou Donaldson, a revered saxophonist known for his smooth and expressive playing style. Donaldson, who collaborated with an array of iconic musicians including Thelonius Monk and George Benson, passed away at the age of 98. His contributions to music were also acknowledged by hip-hop artists such as Nas and De La Soul, who incorporated his work into their own tracks.

Donaldson’s death was confirmed on his official website, with further information not being disclosed at this time.

Originally hailing from Badin, North Carolina, Donaldson was a World War II veteran. He became an influential figure in the bebop jazz movement that took shape after the war, recording alongside renowned artists like Monk and Milt Jackson early in his career. He played a significant role in mentoring young talents like trumpeter Clifford Brown, who tragically lost his life in a car accident in 1956 at just 25 years old. Donaldson was also instrumental in some of the earliest sessions of celebrated pianist Horace Silver.

Throughout his illustrious career, spanning over 50 years, he masterfully melded elements of soul, blues, and pop. He experienced notable commercial success with his 1967 rendition of the classic track “Ode to Billy Joe,” which featured a young Benson on guitar. Some of his most acclaimed albums include “Alligator Bogaloo,” “Lou Donaldson at His Best,” and “Wailing With Lou.” Donaldson often kicked off his performances with the cool jazz tune “Blues Walk,” which was released in 1958.

In a 2013 interview with the National Endowment for the Arts, he referred to “Blues Walk” as his theme song, praising its infectious groove. The same organization honored him as a Jazz Master for his remarkable contributions to the genre. In 2022, a street in his hometown was renamed Lou Donaldson Boulevard, celebrating his enduring legacy in the music world.