Sykes, a Grammy-nominated opera and gospel singer who has performed with Boston Symphony Orchestra and Duke Ellington Orchestra was reportedly found dead in his Santa Monica home. The 71-year-old artist died from severe stab wounds, resulting in an influx of local law enforcement. After the attack, police arrested Sykes’ son, 31-year-old Micah Sykes, on murder charges.
Born in Los Angeles in 1954, Jubilant Sykes entered the world of music as a young boy, when he sang soprano in his family’s church choir. Throughout his expansive career, he exposed us to a unique versatility, showing that he felt just as home in pop as he did in opera. In a 2002 interview with NPR, he stated, “Initially, I had no dreams of becoming an opera singer,” highlighting the unexpected path his life took in the arts.
In his lifetime, Sykes received several high honors for his contributions to music. In 2008, he performed the role of Celebrant in Leonard Bernstein’s Mass at Carnegie Hall. His performance won him some of the highest accolades. He was nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Classical Album in 2010 for this very work. The Guardian lauded his portrayal as “a spectacular performance of a demanding role,” further solidifying his reputation in the music world.
Officers arrived to find a home off of Sykes’ residence. Upon their arrival, they found him unresponsive with life-threatening injuries. Despite resuscitation efforts by attending medical personnel, he was declared dead at the scene. The police department for Santa Monica confirmed the particulars of the incident. From there, they’ll refer the case to the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office for any further consideration.
Suspect Micah Sykes was arrested without incident. Officials have not released any additional information about what led to the stabbing or what prompted it. That investigation is still active and ongoing as detectives work to put together the tragic puzzle.