In Memoriam: Arthur “Juini” Booth
Jazz bassist Arthur “Juini” Booth has passed away after his health deteriorated following a fall at home last month. He was 73 years old.
Booth was born in Buffalo, New York, and got his musical start on the piano at eight years old. He switched to bass at 12 and started playing professionally by age 16. It was in Buffalo that he worked with Chuck Mangione in 1964 and 1965 before moving to New York City in 1966. He spent the ’60s working with artists like Eddie Harris, Art Blakey, Freddie Hubbard, and Shelly Manne.
In the ’70s, he hooked up with Tony Williams and played in his Lifetime band. He also connected with McCoy Tyner and enjoyed a stint in his band from 1973 to 1976.
Booth was a longtime member of the Sun Ra Arkestra, who posted on his passing. “We’re sad to say that Juini Booth has left the planet,” they wrote on Facebook. “Long time Arkestra member Juini joined the Arkestra in 1967. Our show in Buffalo on Sept. 2 will be dedicated to Juini.”
Booth continued performing through his whole life. Other credits include the Mingus-Zimmerman Award sponsored by the International Society of Bassists, a Suite for Solo Contrabass, and lots of touring throughout Europe as a solo performer.
Our thoughts are with the family and friends of Arthur “Juini” Booth.
