Jazz Legend Chuck Mangione Dies at 84

Renowned flugelhorn player and composer Chuck Mangione has died at the age of 84. He passed away peacefully in his sleep at his home in Rochester, New York, on July 22, 2025.

Mangione rose to international fame with his 1977 hit “Feels So Good,” a smooth jazz classic that became one of the most recognizable instrumental tracks of its era. Over his six-decade career, he released more than 30 albums and earned 14 Grammy nominations, winning twice for Bellavia (1977) and Children of Sanchez (1979).

Born on November 29, 1940, in Rochester, Mangione studied and later taught at the Eastman School of Music. He performed alongside jazz greats like Art Blakey and Dizzy Gillespie before launching a successful solo career that brought jazz to mainstream audiences.

Beyond music, Mangione became a pop culture icon with his recurring animated cameo on King of the Hill, where he was humorously portrayed playing “Feels So Good” in nearly every appearance.

He also composed memorable pieces for major events, including “Chase the Clouds Away” for the 1976 Montreal Olympics and “Give It All You Got” for the 1980 Winter Olympics.

Although he retired from major touring in 2015, Mangione continued to mentor young musicians and occasionally performed locally in his hometown.

He is survived by his daughters, grandchildren, brother, and countless fans around the world. His family released a statement remembering him as “a man whose life was filled with music, love, and joy,” and the jazz community has been pouring out tributes in celebration of his legacy.