All of us at KMHD mourn the passing of Nancy King, who died on August 5th, 2025. Her distinct, dynamic voice, particularly in scat singing, and her iconic rose-colored glasses were just symbols of the many elements that made her a treasure in the jazz scene worldwide, but especially here in Oregon.
Growing up just outside Eugene, OR, King was raised by musical parents who encouraged her to pursue a life in the arts. Her work along the West Coast from the 1960s, especially in San Francisco (where she met her partner, Sonny King) brought her national attention. She toured with King’s band, which led to connections with artists like Jon Hendricks, Pharoah Sanders, Vince Guaraldi and Miles Davis - who eventually grew to be part of her extended jazz community.
Her work with the late Leroy Vinnegar and Ray Brown gained her worldwide attention & acclaim, and her 2006 Live at Jazz Standard album with pianist Fred Hersch gave King her first Grammy nomination. In Portland, she recorded many stellar albums with longtime collaborators bassist Glen Moore and pianist Steve Christofferson.
Her lifelong commitment to the Portland jazz scene is where she’ll be particularly remembered. She leaves a legacy at Portland State University where she taught and students continue to work on arrangements of her tunes today.
At KMHD, we’ll remember Nancy for her characteristic, joyful energy and for her commitment to being a true innovator and individual in jazz’s rich history.