Jazz pioneer Freddie Hubbard dies aged 70

Ground-breaking jazz musician Freddie Hubbard died today (December 29) at the age of 70.

The renowned trumpet player passed away at a Los Angeles-area hospital. He had been hospitalised there since suffering a heart attack in November.

During his lengthy career, Hubbard collaborated with jazz greats including John Coltrane, Ornette Coleman, Miles Davis and Herbie Hancock. He is credited with having influenced countless trumpet players with his unique style.

"He played faster, longer, higher and with more energy than any other trumpeter of his era," his long-time manager and producer David Weiss said in a statement.

Hubbard won a Grammy Award in 1972 for Best Jazz Performance By A Group and has played on more than 300 recordings. His most recent band was The New Jazz Composers Octet.

The Indianapolis, Indiana native is survived by his wife of 35 years, Briggie Hubbard, and his son Duane. Funeral services are pending. A memorial tribute will reportedly take place in New York in early 2009.

--By our Los Angeles staff.
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