the Official PHIL UPCHURCH™ Website

In Loving Memory of Guitar Legend Phil Upchurch

1941–2025

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Phil Upchurch in His Own Words

“If it weren’t for music, I know I would have pursued a career in photography. It is a very competitive occupation but so is music and so is life. This is why I prefer to maintain a high level of spirituality and commitment in all my undertakings. One must truly be passionate in order to maximize one’s potentials. I also believe that faith gives one the ability to overcome all obstacles, and I have lived by this creed all of my life. God does not work in mysterious ways, He works in Godly ways.”

Phil Upchurch was a legendary guitarist of Blues, Jazz, Soul, and R&B whose artistry embodied the true Chicago sound of music. His career included collaborations with some of the most influential artists of the 20th century. Known for his versatility across genres, Upchurch’s work inspired musicians worldwide.

During his career, Upchurch recorded nearly 30 albums as a leader and appeared on over 2,000 recordings where collaborations included Michael Jackson, Donny Hathaway, Curtis Mayfield, Bob Dylan, Quincy Jones, Chaka Khan, Luther Vandross, B.B. King, Dizzy Gillespie, Cannonball Adderley, Joe Williams, John Lee Hooker, Grover Washington, Jr., Oscar Brown Jr., Stan Getz, Woody Herman, Groove Holmes, Otis Rush, Jimmy Reed, Maurice White, Carmen McRae, a decade collaboration with jazz organist Jimmy Smith, and countless others.

Upchurch died Sunday, November 23, 2025, at the age of 84. He leaves behind his wife, music partner, and best friend Sonya Maddox-Upchurch, who shared in his life’s journey both personally and professionally, and a lifetime of music and art to be celebrated by the world.