Jazz Legend Chuck Mangione Dies at 84

Born Charles Frank Mangione on November 29, 1940, in Rochester, New York, Mangione rose to prominence in the 1960s performing with Art Blakey’s Jazz Messengers before co-leading The Jazz Brothers with his brother, Gap Mangione. His landmark hit, “Feels So Good,” climbed to No. 4 on the Billboard Hot 100 and secured a lasting place in jazz-pop history.

Throughout his five-decade career, Mangione released over 30 albums and earned 14 Grammy nominations, winning two: Bellavia (1977) for Best Instrumental Composition and Children of Sanchez (1979) for Best Pop Instrumental Performance.

In addition to his musical impact, Mangione left a mark in popular culture, composing theme music for the 1976 Montreal Summer Olympics (“Chase the Clouds Away”) and 1980 Winter Olympics (“Give It All You Got”), which he performed at the closing ceremonies in Lake Placid, New York. He also voiced a fictionalized version of himself on the animated sitcom King of the Hill, expanding his reach well beyond jazz circles.

Mangione’s family described him as a passionate and joyful artist whose boundless energy and enthusiasm brought people together through music. He remained involved in music education and community performances even after his retirement in 2015, coaching young musicians and hosting benefit concerts in Rochester.

Chuck Mangione’s passing marks the end of an era, but his legacy endures through his timeless melodies and unmistakable sound. From jazz stages to television screens, his music will continue to "feel so good" for years to come.