James Chance And The Contortions Obituary, Death; No Wave Musician and Saxophonist has died: James Chance, the influential saxophonist and singer who played a pivotal role in shaping the No Wave movement of the late 1970s in New York City, has passed away at the age of 71. Born James Siegfried in Milwaukee, Chance was renowned for his avant-garde approach to music, blending punk, jazz, and noise into a distinctive and confrontational style that left an indelible mark on the music scene.
Chance gained prominence as the frontman of The Contortions and Teenage Jesus and the Jerks, bands known for their raw energy and experimental soundscapes. His live performances were legendary for their intensity, sometimes even leading to confrontations with audiences, reflecting his commitment to pushing artistic boundaries.
In 1977, The Contortions made waves with their appearance on the groundbreaking “No New York” compilation album produced by Brian Eno. Subsequent albums like “Buy” (1979) and “Off White” (1980), released under the moniker James White and the Blacks, showcased Chance’s dynamic vocals and innovative saxophone techniques. Throughout his career, Chance collaborated with notable artists such as Lydia Lunch and Debbie Harry of Blondie, further cementing his influence in the experimental music scene. He continued to evolve artistically, reuniting with original band members for performances and releasing new music well into the 21st century.
James Chance’s impact transcends his music; he challenged conventional norms and expanded the horizons of artistic expression. His fearless creativity and uncompromising vision continue to inspire and resonate with fans and fellow musicians alike. James Chance is survived by his mother Jean Siegfried, brother David Siegfried, sisters Jill Siegfried and Mary Koehler, and was preceded in death by his partner Judy Taylor in 2020. His contributions to music remain a vital part of his enduring legacy, influencing generations of experimental artists to explore new boundaries and possibilities in music and art.
