Rusty Jones dies at 73
Chicago jazz musician Rusty Jones- drummer for Judy Roberts, George Shearing, Buddy Defranco, Lee Konitz, Ira Sullivan, and others- has passed away.
Jones was known for his warmth, openness, and imperturbable swing rhythm.
“It goes without saying that he was among the finest musicians in Chicago, and the world, but that he was also the finest human being one could hope to encounter,” wrote Chicago bassist Steven Hashimoto in a blog posting. “I doubt there’s a musician below the age of 60 in Chicago who didn’t at some point get words of encouragement, helpful advice or constructive criticism from Rusty.”