Jazz legend Mose Allison dies at Hilton Head home

Hilton Head Island resident and jazz legend Mose Allison died Tuesday morning at the age of 89. He is survived by his wife, Audre, three daughters, a son and two grandchildren.

Allison was a pianist, singer and songwriter, and has been called the best jazz vocalist of his time. He was influential to many musicians, including Jimi Hendrix, the Who and Tom Waits.

“He was especially revered by 1960s English rockers who idolized the blues and who saw in his example an accessible ideal,” The New York Times wrote in his obituary.

Allison was known for his work ethic and kept a busy touring schedule until recent years. He was also a frequent audience member at The Jazz Corner on Hilton Head, where he performed annually.

If you’re not familiar with Allison’s body of work, start here. The Island Packet narrows down 10 of his most essential songs for you.

This story was originally published November 15, 2016 at 4:41 PM with the headline "Jazz legend Mose Allison dies at Hilton Head home."