Jazz singer and songwriter Cassandra Wilson, a two-time Grammy winner, dies at age 70. Multiple outlets report she dies in Jackson, Mississippi, her hometown, in the early hours of Wednesday. Variety and Stereogum both cite that her longtime manager Robert Torre confirmed the death, and several outlets note no cause of death is provided.
Wilson is widely described as having a distinctive, low, smoky contralto voice and as an artist who blends jazz with other styles. The New York Times highlights her ability to conjure the blues tradition of Mississippi through both original material and covers. Billboard and The Guardian say she moves across genres—including folk, pop, R&B and country—while Rolling Stone emphasizes her refreshing, unusual takes on well-known songs.
Across coverage, outlets also describe her career honors and public recognition. Billboard and The Guardian reference a 2001 Time magazine description calling her “America’s best singer.” Los Angeles Times includes local remarks from Jackson mayor John Horhn, describing her as an extraordinary native daughter and a singular musical voice.
