Casey Benjamin, Saxophonist And Original Member Of Robert Glasper Experiment, Dead At 45

Casey Benjamin, a two-time Grammy-winning saxophonist and original member of the Robert Glasper Experiment band, has died at age 45. The news was confirmed on Sunday (March 31) after a flood of tributes from his friends and collaborators appeared on social media.

His cause of death is unknown.

Born in 1978, the Queens native and decorated musician began playing the saxophone at the tender age of eight. He studied at the Harlem School of Arts and Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School of Music and Art And Performing Arts before attending the New School for Jazz and Contemporary Music, where he met Glasper. Over the years, he’s worked with the likes of Erykah Badu, Solange, Mary J. Blige, yasiin bey, Lupe Fiasco, John Legend, Kendrick Lamar, and more.

As part of the Robert Glasper Experiment, Benjamin won two Grammys—first for Best R&B Album in 2013 and then, for Best Traditional R&B Performance in 2015. In a video, Benjamin shed some light into his musical approach, noting, “I tend to like to play in places in the music where you would never expect it. And also to put effects on it. I always like contrast — contrast, to me, is beauty. So, you always think outside of the box.”

The original members of The Robert Glasper Experiment, Glasper helmed the collective with Derrick Hodge on electric bass, Chris Dave on drums and percussion, and Benjamin on vocoder and saxophone.

Hodge was among the many touching tributes dedicated to Benjamin.

“Tonight, I honor a brother. A true brother and friend,” Hodge began. “Casey Benjamin, thank you for inspiring me, for being a light in my life, and for your unbelievable influence on the music world. I will carry your smile with me, brother and we will collectively honor and carry your legacy with us. Can’t get my words together at this moment but will echo a few of my last words to you: I’m thankful for you and love you always! Rest well, King.”

Lupe Fiasco wrote, “I can’t even begin to express the deep gratitude and respect. My deepest condolences to the family, fans and friends.”

Lalah Hathaway expressed, “Always an honor and an education to create standing next to you Casey. Your personal footprint- the sound…the style…will live on forever.”

Questlove compared the original Robert Glasper Experiment collective to the OG Jordan era. “Knowing what I know of history I pretty much know that if you are a part of Robert Glasper’s world you are an instant all star. It goes without saying that the initial lineup of the Glasper Experiment was on some Jordan Era 91-93/96-98 Bulls Rings Ish.”

When speaking on Benjamin directly, the Roots frontman added, “Seriously…..damn near every member of this squad was a god in their own right and I considered #CaseyBenjamin the Horace Grant of the squad. His presence allowed Glasper the space to do what I think Glasper does best which is paint colors that otherwise would be a task had Glasper had the job of leading the mission with just one keyboard.”

VIBE sends our deepest condolences to all those affected by this loss.

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