'Big' Jay McShann Passes

'Big' Jay McShann

“BIG” JAY McSHANN, legendary pianist, composer, bandleader and one of the last remaining greats of the KANSAS CITYJazz Era, has died. McSHANN was one of the last living links to KANSAS CITY's fabled Jazz Era and recorded scores of albums during a career that spanned more than 70 years. 

McSHANN continued performing into the 21st century, performing in 2003 at the KANSAS CITY SPIRIT FESTIVAL, the FOLLY THEATER and the second annual CODA JAZZ FUND CONCERT. He performed at the FOLLY again in 2005, and in 2006 performed at the GEM THEATER in conjunction with the PENN VALLEY JAZZ FESTIVAL. 

Although there is disagreement regarding his birthday, he was thought to be 90.

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