The Jazz world lost a true legend this week as it was announced that Wayne Shorter, a jazz saxophone pioneer, passed away at the age of 89, according to the Associated Press. 

Alisse Kingsley, a representative for the multiple-Grammy Award winner, confirmed that he died in Los Angeles surrounded by his family.

At this time, the cause of Shorter's death has not been revealed.

Kingsley released a statement on the passing of the musical icon.

Man of many talents

“Visionary composer, saxophonist, visual artist, devout Buddhist, devoted husband, father and grandfather Wayne Shorter has embarked on a new journey as part of his extraordinary life — departing the earth as we know it in search of an abundance of new challenges and creative possibilities,” a statement released by Kingsley said.

It called him a gentle spirit who was “always inquisitive and constantly exploring.”

Shorter was part of the legendary bands called Art Blakey’s Jazz Messengers and the Miles Davis Quintet.

The AP noted: "Over the next eight decades, Shorter’s wide-spanning collaborations would include co-founding the ’70s fusion band Weather Report, some 10 album appearances with Joni Mitchell and further explorations with Carlos Santana and Steely Dan."

Shorter reportedly set trends in the jazz world, with many of his compositions become jazz standards.

The award-winning musician made his debut in the business in 1959.

Tributes pour in

"The master writer to me, in that group, was Wayne Shorter. He still is a master. Wayne was one of the few people who brought music to Miles that didn’t get changed," Herbie Hancock said.

Hancock later tweeted, "Wayne Shorter, my best friend, left us with courage in his heart, love and compassion for all, and a seeking spirit for the eternal future. He was ready for his rebirth. As it is with every human being, he is irreplaceable . . ."

Wayne Shorter, my best friend, left us with courage in his heart, love and compassion for all, and a seeking spirit for the eternal future. He was ready for his rebirth. As it is with every human being, he is irreplaceable . . . pic.twitter.com/MRVfXhaz8T

— Herbie Hancock (@herbiehancock) March 2, 2023

Clearly, Shorter was a master at his craft and is widely recognized for his contributions to one of the most important music genres in the world.