Following the shocking news of WWE Legend Hulk Hogan’s death, it was revealed that Grammy-winning jazz icon Chuck Mangione had also passed away.
Mangione, renowned for both his music and comedy, particularly his voice work on the animated series King of the Hill, reportedly died in his sleep at the age of 84. The announcement was made via his website, which bore a solemn message stating ” We are very sorry. Chuck Mangione has passed. More to come.”
His death occurred in the same week as the tragic losses of actor Malcolm-Jamal Warner in a drowning accident, music legend Ozzy Osbourne, who died aged 76 just weeks after his final farewell concert, and Hogan, whose death was due to cardiac issues.
Mangione’s solicitor, Peter S Matorin of Beldock Levine and Hoffman LLP, confirmed his passing, revealing he had died peacefully at his home in Rochester, New York, on 22 July.
Mangione’s (real name Charles Frank) career saw him record several hit tracks and become one of the most influential jazz artists.
His tracks Chase The Clouds Away and Give It All You Got were performed and incorporated into the 1976 Summer Olympics in Montreal, Quebec, Canada, and the 1980 Winter Games in Lake Placid, New York.
He also won two Grammy Awards during his illustrious career. The first was awarded in 1977, for Best Instrumental Composition, while the second was given to him in 1979, for Best Pop Instrumental Performance.
He was also inducted into the Rochester Music Hall of Fame in 2012, reports the Mirror US.
Whilst primarily recognised for his jazz contributions, Mangione successfully reached fresh audiences when he ventured into television comedy.
This occurred through his appearance in the initial seasons of the animated programme, King of the Hill.
In the show, he portrayed a version of himself, featuring as a celebrity representative for the fictional “Mega Lo Mart.” He also composed the music for the 1998 Valentine’s Day episode.
Following his initial role as director of the Eastman School of Music’s jazz ensemble, Mangione gained recognition after launching his career in the 1960s with his brother, Gap.
For his contributions there, he was subsequently honoured with the Eastman School of Music Alumni Achievement Award in 2007.
He initially achieved fame officially during the 1970s.
He is set to have a private funeral.
