In Loving Memory: Drew Zingg (New York City)
Renowned Jazz Guitarist and Musical Visionary
1957 – April 2025
The music world is mourning the profound loss of Drew Zingg, a brilliant guitarist whose name became synonymous with soulful precision, jazz-infused complexity, and musical excellence. Known most prominently for his work with the iconic band Steely Dan, Zingg passed away in April 2025 in New York City, leaving behind a rich legacy that spans decades of performances, recordings, and mentorship.
He was 67 years old.
Drew Zingg’s career was defined by his versatility, technical brilliance, and deep emotional resonance, making him not just a musician, but a storyteller through strings. His passing has sent ripples through the global music community, prompting tributes from fellow musicians, collaborators, and legions of fans whose lives were touched by his work.
A Life in Music
Born in 1957, Drew Zingg found his love for music at an early age. From the moment he first picked up a guitar, it was clear he had a rare gift—one that would eventually shape his path toward becoming one of the most respected guitarists of his generation. He studied at Cornell University, where he honed his skills and began to develop the unique style that would later earn him acclaim in jazz, rock, and pop circles alike.
Zingg rose to wider prominence in the early 1990s when he served as the lead guitarist and musical director for Steely Dan’s live band during their return to touring after a long hiatus. His work on “Alive in America,” the band’s celebrated live album, earned praise from critics and fans alike, with many pointing to Zingg’s playing as a standout element of the recording.
His tone—crisp, articulate, and emotionally layered—became instantly recognizable. But Zingg’s talent wasn’t limited to technical mastery; he played with soul, patience, and purpose, always knowing when to let the silence breathe and when to let the guitar soar.
In addition to his work with Steely Dan, Zingg performed and recorded with a roster of major artists including Boz Scaggs, Michael McDonald, Aretha Franklin, Rickie Lee Jones, and Donald Fagen, further cementing his place among the elite musicians of his era.
A Mentor and an Inspiration
Beyond his own stage and studio work, Drew Zingg was a beloved mentor and teacher, always eager to share his knowledge with younger musicians. He was known for his generous spirit, never hesitating to offer guidance or words of encouragement to a guitarist still trying to find their voice.
Through masterclasses, workshops, and countless one-on-one lessons, Zingg influenced a generation of up-and-coming players, many of whom cite him as the reason they pursued music in the first place. His ability to explain complex theory in a way that felt intuitive and inspiring made him an extraordinary educator, both in formal settings and informally backstage at gigs.
Remembering the Sound
Zingg’s approach to the guitar was distinctive—a smooth fusion of jazz sophistication and pop sensibility. His solos could be both understated and dazzling, filled with melodic thoughtfulness and rhythmic creativity. Whether delivering a searing lead or comping gently behind a vocalist, he always played in service of the song, something his peers deeply respected.
As one fellow guitarist noted in a recent tribute:
“Drew didn’t just play guitar—he played emotion. He made the instrument sing, cry, whisper, and shout. He was a true artist in every sense.”
Tributes Pour In
Following news of his passing, tributes have poured in from all corners of the music world. Longtime collaborators shared memories of late-night jam sessions, studio magic, and long tours filled with laughter and late-night philosophical debates about music. Fans posted clips of Zingg’s iconic solos, live performances, and heartfelt messages of gratitude.
A memorial event celebrating Zingg’s life and legacy is being planned in New York City, where his musical journey flourished and where he continued to perform regularly until his final days.
He is survived by his loving family, close friends, fellow musicians, and a devoted global fanbase who will carry his memory through the music he leaves behind.
Legacy Eternal
Drew Zingg’s influence extends far beyond the records he played on or the stages he graced. He was an artist whose work elevated every project he was a part of. His sound was sophisticated yet accessible, technically dazzling yet emotionally grounded. And above all, his work continues to inspire.
In an era of disposable music and fleeting fame, Drew Zingg stood as a beacon of authenticity and craftsmanship. His guitar voice lives on through every note he recorded and in the hands of every musician he mentored.
Though the man is gone, the music remains—and through it, Drew Zingg’s legacy will endure.
Rest in peace, Drew. Thank you for the music, the wisdom, and the soul.