January 30, 2004(2004-01-30) (aged 76) Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
Genres
Jazz
Occupation(s)
Musician
Instrument(s)
Double bass
Years active
1950–2000
Musical artist
Malachi Favors (August 22, 1927[1] – January 30, 2004)[2] was an American jazz bassist who played with the Art Ensemble of Chicago.
Biography
"Favors's tendency to dissemble about his age was a well-known source of mirth to fellow musicians of his generation".[3] Most reference works give his year of birth of 1937, but, following his death, his daughter stated that it was 1927.[4]
At some point he added the word "Maghostut" to his name and because of this he is commonly listed as "Malachi Favors Maghostut".[5] Musically he is most associated with bebop, hard bop, and particularly free jazz.[6]
Prominent records include Natural & Spiritual (solo bass, 1978)[1] and Sightsong (duets with Muhal Richard Abrams, 1975).[1] In 1994 he played with Roman Bunka (Oud) at Berlin Jazz Fest and recorded the 'German Critics Poll Winner' album, Color Me Cairo.
Favors died from pancreatic cancer in January 2004, at the age of 76.[1]