Gordon Goodwin, a renowned musician and composer, passed away on December 8, 2023, at the age of 70 due to pancreatic cancer. His legacy as a multi-Grammy award-winning arranger, composer, pianist, and saxophonist will continue to resonate within the music community, particularly through the upcoming posthumous album by his ensemble, the Big Phat Band, titled “25 Years of Phatness,” set for release in July 2024.
Goodwin’s lifelong dedication to music left a significant mark on the industry and young musicians alike. Doug McIntyre, a writer and friend, highlighted the profound impact Goodwin had on aspiring artists. “He was an evangelist for jazz and big bands,” McIntyre remarked, emphasizing Goodwin’s commitment to mentoring youth through clinics and educational arrangements tailored for high school and college students.
A memorial concert held on December 30, 2023, in Thousand Oaks drew approximately 2,500 attendees, including friends, musicians, and fans. The concert featured performances by the Big Phat Band, showcasing the vibrant music that Goodwin helped create and foster.
Survived by his wife, Vangie Gunn-Goodwin, his mother, six children, and two grandchildren, Goodwin’s legacy is enriched by his extensive contributions to music. He is the most Grammy-nominated big band arranger in history, with 24 nominations and four wins, one of which was for the band’s acclaimed rendition of Gershwin’s “Rhapsody in Blue.”
Goodwin’s journey in music began at an early age, crafting his first big band arrangement in the seventh grade. While studying at California State University, Northridge, he balanced a piano gig at Disneyland with academic pursuits, eventually composing the score for the cult classic film “Attack of the Killer Tomatoes.” Throughout his career, he contributed to over 80 television and film projects, leaving a lasting impression on both audiences and fellow musicians.
His contributions have also been recognized by various organizations, including the United States Army Field Band, which described Goodwin as a “towering figure in American big band writing.” They noted that his melodies and signature style shaped the formative years of countless musicians.
Prominent figures in the music industry expressed their condolences and admiration for Goodwin. Johnny Mathis, an acclaimed recording artist, fondly remembered Goodwin as a friend and collaborator, stating, “His skills and abilities had no boundaries because as a musician, he was not mortal.” Renowned trumpeter Arturo Sandoval praised Goodwin’s extraordinary talent, saying, “His writing was powerful, elegant, and full of life.”
Jazz vocalist Tierney Sutton, who had a long-standing association with Goodwin, reflected on their collaboration. “Gordon set the bar,” she stated, affirming that his influence will continue to inspire musicians for years to come.
As fans await the release of “25 Years of Phatness,” Goodwin’s artistry continues to inspire the next generation of musicians, ensuring that his creative spirit endures through the music he left behind.
