Beloved Rochester Jazz Icon Chuck Mangione Dies at 84

The Rochester community and music lovers around the world are mourning the loss of legendary jazz musician Chuck Mangione, who passed away Tuesday at age 84. A proud son of Rochester, Mangione’s smooth flugelhorn sound and heartfelt melodies brought joy to millions and earned him two Grammy Awards during a career that spanned over five decades.

This wikipedia photo of Chuck Mangione (11/29/40 - 7/22/25) was taken in 1998.

Born Charles Frank Mangione on Nov. 29, 1940, in northeast Rochester, he was raised behind his family's grocery store on Martin Street and attended Franklin High School. He later studied and taught at the Eastman School of Music, where he sharpened the musical talent that would make him a household name.

Mangione was best known for his 1977 hit “Feels So Good,” a song that soared on the Billboard charts and became a jazz-pop classic. He also composed for film and television, including the Grammy-winning Children of Sanchez, and famously portrayed himself on the animated series King of the Hill.

But to Rochester, Chuck was more than a global jazz icon—he was family. His upbringing in a working-class neighborhood, his dedication to music education, and his loyalty to the local community shaped not only his life, but his sound.

Mayor Malik Evans issued a heartfelt statement, calling Mangione “a gifted jazz musician and composer who earned international distinction, and Rochester’s pride.” Evans recalled the family’s store staying open during the 1964 riots, a sign of the deep trust between the Mangiones and their neighbors. “His music echoes the underlying beauty of our city. That will forever be Chuck Mangione’s legacy,” Evans said.

The co-producers of the Rochester International Jazz Festival, Marc Iacona and John Nugent, also honored Mangione, calling him “a legendary musician whose sound helped define a generation and whose roots run deep in Rochester.” They added, “Chuck’s music will continue to echo through the hearts of fans near and far. His legacy will forever be a part of the spirit of Rochester and the soul of jazz.”

Chuck performed across the globe but never forgot where he came from. He and his brother, Gap Mangione, performed together often, drawing from the sounds of Rochester’s historic Clarissa Street and the legendary Pythodd Club, where they once shared the stage with jazz great Dizzy Gillespie.

Mangione’s life was a testament to the power of art, community, and staying true to one’s roots. He is survived by his brother Gap, his children, and many loved ones. A private funeral will be arranged by Bartolomeo & Perotto Funeral Home.

La Voz celebrates the life and legacy of Chuck Mangione — a hometown hero whose music transcended borders and whose story continues to inspire.