Who was Kidd Jordan? Louisiana native and “jazz hero” dies at 87

A jazz saxophonist, composer, and educator from the United States, Kidd Jordan was actually Edward Jordan.

He is regarded as one of the key figures in avant-garde jazz and was born on May 5, 1935, in Crowley, Louisiana.

Ornette Coleman, Cecil Taylor, and William Parker are just a few of the legendary jazz musicians he has worked with over his career.

In addition, Jordan has a large body of work under his own name that showcases his distinct playing style, which incorporates elements of swing, free jazz, and blues.

Jazz musicians, in particular, can receive meager cash recompense, and many of them rely on playing, teaching, and recording to make a living.

Who was Kidd Jordan? Louisiana native and “jazz hero” dies at 87

Sir Edward “Kidd” Jordan, a native of Louisiana, was a “jazz maverick” and former professor at SUNO.

According to family publicist Vincent Sylvain, he passed away quietly in his sleep while spending time with his family at home on Friday morning.

Jordan performed across New Orleans over his 50-year musical career on the tenor, soprano, alto, sopranino, and C-melody saxes. Jordan was referred as be one of the “busiest musicians in the world” by Sylvain while also being a “genteel man.” In addition to his own impressive catalog, he has worked with legendary musicians like Aretha Franklin, Stevie Wonder, The Temptations, and others.