Care Fund Set Up for Bob Cranshaw

A care fund has been set up for bass legend Bob Cranshaw, who is battling stage 4 cancer. The 83-year old bassist has been receiving support, but recent events have led to a sharp increase in costs.

“Bob is bravely battling stage 4 cancer that is aggressive and relentless,” the GoFundMe page states. “While his family is eternally grateful to The Jazz Foundation of America for their generosity and support, he and his family now need 24/7 care. Many of you have offered help, so now is the time and here is the way you can give back to this wonderful man who has given us all so much.”

Cranshaw’s bass lines have permeated the jazz world and beyond for over six decades. He may be best known for his longterm association with saxophonist Sonny Rollins, but his playing spans all genres. He recorded on classic Blue Note albums like Lee Morgan’s The Sidewinder and Grant Green’s Idle Moments, but he also played on Paul Simon’s There Goes Rhymin’ Simon. He was the session bassist for Sesame Street and Saturday Night Live. He played in the pit orchestra for Jesus Christ Superstar. He was also one of the early adopters of the electric bass in jazz. More recently, he’s been playing festivals and advocating for musicians through the New York City musicians union.

To give back to this man who has given us so much good music, check out the The Bob Cranshaw Care Fund on GoFundMe.

Our thoughts are with Bob and his family.