How Old Was Miles Davis When He Died
Miles Davis was 65 years old when he died on September 28, 1991, in Santa Monica, California. He was born on May 26, 1926, in Alton, Illinois, which means his final age was 65 years and 125 days. This information is confirmed by public records and major music biography sources such as this biography page on AllMusic.
The cause of death was a stroke, pneumonia, and respiratory failure, following years of health issues related to sickle cell disease and substance use. His death occurred at St. John's Hospital in Santa Monica, and his remains were later cremated, with some ashes given to his family and some scattered in New York City. These details are documented in the Britannica biography.
Miles Davis's Age and Career Timeline
Early Career and Rise to Fame
Miles Davis began his professional career in the mid-1940s after moving to New York City to study at the Juilliard School and perform with Charlie Parker. By his early twenties, he had already recorded landmark bebop sessions and joined the elite circle of modern jazz musicians. His rise was documented in major music histories, including profiles on Rolling Stone.
Key Albums and Innovations by Age
At 29, Davis released "Kind of Blue" in 1959, the best-selling jazz album of all time, which redefined modal jazz. By age 38, he had pioneered jazz fusion with "Bitches Brew" in 1970, a landmark album that expanded the genre's audience and influenced later artists. These albums are frequently cited in rankings by NME.
Legacy and Final Years
Health Decline and Last Performances
In his final years, Miles Davis faced declining health due to a series of strokes and hip problems, which led to his retirement from active touring after 1975. He returned to recording and performing in the late 1980s, but his health continued to deteriorate, leading up to his death at age 65. His later career is covered in retrospectives such as the The Guardian feature on his final years.
Influence on Modern Jazz and Beyond
Miles Davis's influence extends across genres, from hip-hop sampling to electronic music, with his trumpet style and studio innovations still studied by musicians today. His discography remains a reference point for artists and producers exploring improvisation and studio experimentation. This ongoing influence is reflected in modern music analysis on platforms like BBC Culture.