![Donald Byrd, Legendary Jazz Musician, "Rock Creek Park" Maker, Dies at Age 80](http://cdn2-b.examiner.com/sites/default/files/styles/image_content_width/hash/36/2e/362eab2d7be424270a0d2cd1b9bba862.jpg?itok=lhJCpF8N "Donald Byrd, Legendary Jazz Musician, "Rock Creek Park" Maker, Dies at Age 80")
The legendary trumpeter, Detroit native, Donald Byrd, has died at the age of 80, according to Deadline Detroit, Friday, Feb. 8, 2013. His nephew reported his death.
Born Donaldson Toussaint L'Ouverture Byrd II, he is the creator of "Rock Creek Park." Byrd attended Cass Technical High School and Wayne State University. Years following, he earned his masters and doctorate degrees.
The well-educated trumpeter taught music at 9 colleges in the U.S, including Rutgers University. He is reportedly one of the first African Americans to teach Black Music and to become a major resource on Black Music history.
If you were born in the, fifties, sixties and seventies, you probably enjoyed his songs such as these popular one: "Walking in Rythm," and "Happy Music."
Byrd mentored many young musicians and helped them get their start in the music industry. He formed groups and bands.
Promising young trumpeters should get to know the legend, Donald Byrd. His pure raw talent brought joy to people who enjoyed R&B, Funk, Soul and Behop.
In observance of Black History Month, we acknowledge the valuable contributions of Donald Byrd.
R.I.P. Donald Byrd!
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