Plas Johnson: Saxophonist known for solo on The Pink Panther Theme dies aged 94
Renowned jazz saxophonist Plas Johnson, famous for his iconic solo on 'The Pink Panther Theme,' has passed away at age 94. A prolific session musician, Johnson recorded with legendary artists including Frank Sinatra and Nat King Cole.
Why it matters
Johnson's death marks the loss of a significant figure in 20th-century American jazz and film music history.
The US jazz saxophonist Plas Johnson, best known for his solo riff on the timeless classic The Pink Panther Theme, has died at the age of 94, according to reports.
The native of Donaldsonville, Louisiana, died on July 15th, according to a report from the Los Angeles jazz radio station KKJZ.
Johnson’s hometown newspaper, the Donaldsonville Chief, added in a separate report that he died in Granada Hills, a neighbourhood in Los Angeles. Social media posts from users identifying themselves as Louisiana family members of the musician also shared word of Johnson’s death.
“My cousin Mr Plas Johnson passed away,” one Donaldsonville-based Facebook user said on July 17th. The post added: “RIP Cuz.”
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