Jazz legend Chuck Mangione passes away at 84; fans and musicians pay tribute

The world of jazz has lost one of its most iconic voices. Chuck Mangione, the legendary flugelhorn and trumpet player whose smooth melodies bridged jazz and pop for decades, has passed away at the age of 84.

Best known for his Grammy-nominated 1978 hit Feels So Good, Mangione’s influence extended far beyond the stage—touching generations of fans through music, television, and an unmistakable musical style.

A Musical Journey Spanning Six Decades

Chuck Mangione, a celebrated flugelhorn and trumpet player, enjoyed a career that spanned over six decades. He began his musical journey in his teens, forming the Jazz Brothers alongside his brother, pianist Gap Mangione.

Breakthrough with Feels So Good

His biggest commercial breakthrough came in 1978 with the release of Feels So Good, which climbed to No. 4 on the Billboard Hot 100 and earned a Grammy nomination for Record of the Year. Mangione was inducted into the Rochester Music Hall of Fame in 2012.In addition to his celebrated music career, Chuck Mangione was also known for his recurring animated role as himself on the popular TV series King of the Hill.

Fans Mourn a Cultural Icon

Fans took to social media to mourn the loss of the jazz legend. While one fan wrote, “Saddened to hear we just lost an all-time legend, true icon of the culture & American hero all the way from Rochester NY to Arlen TX. RIP Chuck Mangione', another one added, 'This does not feel so good. RIP Chuck Mangione.'Another fan wrote, 'Chuck Mangione’s dead too?! Him always playing “Feels So Good” on King of the Hill might be one of the best running gags on television.'