Phil Upchurch (1941-2025) - RIP

[Kevin Bresnahan]

Guitarist Phil Upchurch died November 23rd. He was 84.

Looking at his extensive discography, I'm surprised I saw him up on a stage playing Jazz several times, with the last time most likely being the only time I managed to see Jimmy Smith live. His obituary almost glosses over his Jazz credentials to focus on his hits with Michael Jackson.

https://variety.com/2025/music/news/phil-upchurch-dead-guitarist-composer-1236599436

[AndreyHenkin]

It depends on the profile of the outlet. Don Sebesky's obit at Broadwayworld.com didn't mention his jazz work at all. Most Richard Davis obits talked more about him playing with Van Morrison and Bruce Springsteen than Andrew Hill.