Eric Jackson, the legendary host of Eric in the Evening on GBH Radio, passed away on Saturday morning, September 17, 2022. He was 72 years old. The cause of his death is still unknown, but he had been suffering from health issues and receiving treatment for undisclosed diseases, according to his family. Jackson was widely regarded as the “Dean of Boston Jazz Radio” and one of the most influential and knowledgeable voices in the jazz world. For more than 50 years, he inspired and educated audiences in Boston and beyond with his passion, wisdom, and warmth.
A Life Dedicated to Jazz and Black Music Culture
Jackson was born in Providence, Rhode Island, in 1950. He was the son of Sam Jackson, who was the first Black radio announcer in New England and a jazz enthusiast. Jackson grew up surrounded by music and met many famous jazz musicians who visited his family home, such as Duke Ellington, Dizzy Gillespie, and John Coltrane. He developed a deep love and appreciation for jazz and Black music culture at an early age.
Jackson returned to New England in 1968 to attend Boston University, where he hosted several programs at the college station, WBTU. He then worked at various radio stations in Boston, such as WBUR, WHRB, WILD, and WBCN. In 1977, he joined GBH as a regular host with Essays in Black Music, a weekly chronology of African American musical history. He also became a lecturer at Northeastern University and taught courses on jazz and Black music.
In 1981, Jackson found his permanent home at GBH with Eric in the Evening, a show that featured jazz music from all eras and styles, as well as interviews with jazz artists and experts. Jackson became known for his deep knowledge, insightful commentary, and friendly personality. He introduced listeners to new and classic jazz recordings, as well as the stories and histories behind them. He also showcased local and emerging jazz talent and supported the Boston jazz scene. He was respected and admired by jazz fans, musicians, and colleagues alike.
A Legacy That Lives On
Jackson’s death has left a huge void in the jazz community and the public broadcasting world. He was a legend, a mentor, a friend, and a source of inspiration for many. He touched the lives of countless people with his music and his voice. He was a champion of jazz and Black music culture, and a guardian of their traditions and values. He was a master of his craft and a leader in his field.
Jackson’s legacy will live on through his recordings, his teachings, and his contributions to the jazz world. He will also live on through the memories and gratitude of those who knew him, listened to him, and learned from him. He will be dearly missed, but never forgotten.
