World-renowned jazz drummer and percussionist Frankie Dunlop has passed away at the age of 85. Having battled a prolonged illness for the past several decades, Dunlop leaves behind a legacy of musical greatness that has garnered the esteem of fellow musicians and jazz fans alike.



After turning professional at the ripe young age of 16, Dunlop’s career spanned close to half a century working with jazz giants including Duke Ellington, Thelonious Monk, Sonny Rollins, Charles Mingus and Lionel Hampton, just to name a few. Dunlop most often subsisted in the role of sideman, but departs us with an indelible mark on jazz history.



Predeceased by his sister Helen, and brother & jazz pianist Boyd Lee Dunlop, Frankie Dunlop is survived by a host of family, friends and fans.



A memorial-celebration of Frankie Dunlop’s life is being held on Wednesday, August 27, 2014 at 7pm, Saint Peter’s Church, 619 Lexington Avenue, New York, New York.