CASEY Benjamin, an iconic saxophonist and member of the original hip-hop band the Robert Glasper Experiment, has died at age 45.
Benjamin was a two-time Grammy Award winner who, alongside the Robert Glasper Experiment, collaborated with hip-hop greats like Beyoncé, Kendrick Lamar, and Nas.
Benjamin died on Monday, his management confirmed to Huff Post.
A cause of death was not immediately provided.
Bandmate Derrick Hodge, who played the electric bass alongside Benjamin, pianist Robert Glasper, and drummer Chris Dave on the Robert Glasper Experiment, mourned Benjamin’s death in a social media post.
“Tonight, I honor a brother… Casey Benjamin, thank you for inspiring me, for being a light in my life, and for your unbelievable influence on the music world,” Hodge wrote.
“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 for you: I’m thankful for you and love you always! Rest well, King.”
Born in Queens, New York, Benjamin first started playing the saxophone when he was just eight years old.
From there, Benjamin studied at the Harlem School of the Arts and Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School of Music and Art, according to New Musical Express.
He later continued studying at The New School for Jazz and Contemporary Music.
Throughout his career, the musician worked with a number of legendary artists including Beyoncé, Mary J. Blige, John Legend, Kendrick Lamar, Kanye West, Lupe Fiasco, and more.
Benjamin won two Grammys as a member of the Robert Glasper Experiment.
In 2013, the hip-hop group won Best R&B Album for Black Radio.
Two years later, the took home the award for Best Traditional R&B Performance for Jesus Children.
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