Rochester, N.Y. – Chuck Mangione, the Grammy-winning jazz flugelhornist and composer whose instrumental hit "Feels So Good" became a global sensation, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, at his home in Rochester, N.Y. He was 84 years old. His family confirmed his death in a statement, noting he died in his sleep. News of his passing quickly spread, with tributes pouring in from fans and fellow musicians across social media.
Mangione rose to prominence with his 1978 jazz-pop instrumental "Feels So Good," which soared to the top five on the Billboard Hot 100 and became a defining track of the smooth jazz genre. The album of the same name is widely regarded as one of the most successful jazz records of all time. His other notable compositions include "Children of Sanchez" and "Give It All You Got," the theme song for the 1980 Winter Olympics in Lake Placid.
Born Charles Frank Mangione on November 29, 1940, his musical journey began early alongside his brother, pianist Gap Mangione, forming the Jazz Brothers. He was an alumnus of the prestigious Eastman School of Music in Rochester, where he later returned to teach and expand its jazz program. His career gained significant momentum in the 1960s, notably through his work as a trumpeter with Art Blakey's Jazz Messengers.
Throughout his six-decade career, Mangione released more than 30 albums and garnered 14 Grammy nominations, winning two. Beyond his musical achievements, he was instantly recognizable for his distinctive fedora and made recurring appearances as himself on the animated television series "King of the Hill." His family's statement highlighted his "boundless energy, unabashed enthusiasm, and pure joy that radiated from the stage."
Tributes from the music world and beyond honored his unique sound and lasting contributions to jazz and contemporary music. Mangione was inducted into the Rochester Music Hall of Fame in 2012, cementing his legacy as a beloved figure whose melodies continue to resonate with generations of listeners.