Drew Zingg obit

Rock/Blues/Jazz Guitarist Drew Zingg (Steely Dan, Boz Scaggs) Dies at 68

 

He was not on the list.

Drew Zingg, a renowned guitarist known for his work in the jazz/rock/blues space as well as time spent with Steely Dan and Boz Scaggs, has passed away at the age of 68.

Zingg’s family issued a statement on social media on Thursday:

The Zingg family, his wife Katerina, his son Levon, and his brothers Peter and Chris are deeply saddened to tell you that earlier this week Drew Zingg passed away in San Francisco.

Drew devoted his life to sharing his unique gift and exceptional music talent, encyclopedic knowledge and love of American music, using his brilliant skills as a guitarist and arranger, collaborating with so many artists he counted as mentors, friends and colleagues, and bringing joy to audiences big and small. We will forever remember his ringing sound and his gentle, uplifting spirit on and off the stage. Drew has been an amazing dad and a tremendous source of love and support to his family. We are heartbroken as we are navigating this immense loss.

The family will be organizing a memorial service in June in San Francisco honoring Drew’s life and legacy. If you wish to give something in Drew’s memory, please consider making a donation to the Sweet Relief Musicians Fund or another charity that helps musicians in need. We will let you know later the time and place of the service.

Born in New York City, Zingg became a player in the NYC club scene, backing artists such as Shawn Colvin, among others. Connecting with Donald Fagen eventually led to Zingg touring with Steely Dan as lead guitarist and music director for “about two years,” according to his Wikipedia page.

Zingg began touring with Scaggs in 1996, and also spent time on the road and/or in the studio with Marcus Miller, Rickie Lee Jones, David Sanborn, Gladys Knight, Alana Davis, and Patti Austin.