In Memory: Richard Cook

Below, Miguel Hernandez, shares his memories of Richard Cook (The Independent’s Obituary).

It is with great sadness that we share the news that Richard Cook passed away on August 25th, of cancer. He was a wealth of knowledge on jazz music, appropriate considering he authored Richard Cook’s Jazz Encyclopedia, It’s About Time and co-authored the monumental Penguin Guide to Jazz on CD.

I didn’t know him too well, but before his round of radio interviews, he informed me of his illness. He did an excellent job on his half-hour long interview on WNYC’s “Soundcheck,” accompanying Miles Davis’ son to discuss the legendary Miles. All the producers who booked him were happy as soon as they heard his eloquent and subtle gentleman’s English accent. His wealth of jazz knowledge was intimidating, but an attribute that, as a jazz fan, commanded respect. It was an honor to work with him. We at Oxford offer our condolences to Richard’s family and friends. The jazz world has lost one of its most impassioned writers and critics.