Jazz Memorial for Al Foster

Photo: Tim Dickeson

Co-sponsored by: Jazz Foundation of America

Al Foster was born in Richmond, Virginia on January 18, 1943, and grew up in New York City. Music was present from the start, and by the age of 10, Al had already discovered the drums, setting the course of a lifelong journey. By his teens, he was performing in clubs around Harlem, his natural feel for rhythm and his openness to every style of music quickly setting him apart.

In 1972, Al’s life changed when he was invited to join the legendary Miles Davis. For more than a decade, Al was Miles’ rhythmic anchor, the only drummer to play with him consistently through both his electric explorations and acoustic returns. Al’s deep sense of groove and his intuitive interplay made him a sought-after collaborator for countless artists including Sonny Rollins, Herbie Hancock, Joe Henderson, McCoy Tyner, and Dexter Gordon.

Known for his warmth as a person and his openness as a musician, Al embodied the very spirit of jazz: listening, responding, and creating beauty in the moment. Whether driving a band with fiery intensity or caressing a ballad with brushwork, his drumming was always about serving the music and uplifting those around him.

Al Foster’s career spanned over six decades, during which he graced stages across the world and inspired generations of drummers and jazz lovers alike. Even as accolades accumulated, Al remained most at home in the joy of live performance, where his smile and swing were inseparable.

He is survived by Bonnie Rose Steinberg, his partner of more than 45 years; four daughters: Kierra Foster-Ba, Simone Foster, Michelle Morris and Monique Magestro; five grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren; as well as the vast family of musicians and listeners who will forever carry his beat in their hearts.

Host or Publisher Arts and Architecture Conservancy at Saint Peter's