Sep 3, 2026 10:44 AM
In Memoriam: Cassandra Wilson, 1955–2026
Cassandra Wilson, a singer, songwriter and producer who was one of the most acclaimed and successful jazz vocalists of…
Queva Jayne Lutz, owner of the 55 Bar in New York, died Feb. 22.
Born in Harlingen, Texas, Lutz left home at 16 and moved to California, where she owned a bookstore before moving to New York in 1977. Lutz created a casual, intimate environment for musicians to stretch out and explore new material within the confines of the 55 Bar, located at 55 Christopher St.
Lutz is survived by her son, Scott Ellard, and his wife, Beth; grandchildren, Aerin and Nicholson; mother, Nickie; brother, Jess; and sister-in-law, Janie.
A memorial service will be held at Manhattan’s St. Peter’s Lutheran Church, 619 Lexington Ave., on March 15 at 6 p.m. No flowers please.
For more information, visit: www.stpeters.org
Wilson’s ability to connect to audiences helped her to win two Grammy awards and multiple other accolades. She was named an NEA Jazz Master in 2022.
Sep 3, 2026 10:44 AM
Cassandra Wilson, a singer, songwriter and producer who was one of the most acclaimed and successful jazz vocalists of…
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