The jazz world is in mourning after the heartbreaking loss of Akiko Tsuruga, a gifted Hammond organist and beloved figure in the international music community. Akiko, the wife of trumpet great Joe Magnarelli, passed away after a period of illness, leaving behind an extraordinary musical legacy and a wide circle of friends, colleagues, and admirers who cherished her artistry and kindness.

Akiko was born and raised in Osaka, Japan, where she began studying the organ at the age of three. By the time she graduated from the Osaka College of Music, she had already committed herself fully to jazz. Influenced by American artists touring Japan, she drew early inspiration from legendary drummer Grady Tate and others who left a lasting mark on her path. Her journey eventually brought her to New York City, the heart of the jazz world, where she quickly became recognized for her skill, passion, and unique voice on the Hammond B-3.

Over the course of her career, Akiko worked with some of jazz’s finest names, including Frank Wess, Jimmy Cobb, and Lou Donaldson, who selected her as his quartet’s organist in 2006. Her connection with Dr. Lonnie Smith, one of the most revered figures in jazz organ history, proved especially profound. Smith became her mentor and greatest influence, and his encouragement helped shape her into one of the premier organists of her generation.

Akiko’s discography includes ten albums as a leader, both in the United States and Japan. Her debut U.S. release, Sweet and Funky (2007), earned wide acclaim and was named one of Downbeat’s “Best Albums of the Year.” In the years that followed, her recordings regularly appeared among the top ten on the National Radio Jazz Chart, further cementing her reputation. Among her many accolades were the Swing Journal Rising Star Award in Japan (2010), the Hot House Magazine “Best Organist” award in New York (2017), and recognition in the Downbeat Critics Poll “Rising Star Organ” category in 2020.

Beyond her achievements, Akiko will be remembered for her warmth, humility, and the joy she brought to every performance. Colleagues recalled her dedication—lugging heavy keyboards and gear from gig to gig, always smiling and giving her all on stage. Her playing was described as radiant, with impeccable groove, deep bass lines, and an energy that uplifted everyone around her. “Her playing was like watching a flower bloom,” Dr. Lonnie Smith once said, words that beautifully captured her artistry.

Friends who knew her personally spoke of her unwavering kindness and her ability to light up any room with her presence. She was deeply admired not only for her musical gifts but also for her generosity, humility, and spirit. Her marriage to Joe Magnarelli brought her great happiness, and those close to them noted how her playing grew even deeper and more soulful after they built their life together.

The loss of Akiko Tsuruga is felt across continents—from her native Japan to the clubs and concert halls of New York, to the countless listeners worldwide who found joy and inspiration in her music. Her artistry has secured her place among the greats, and her legacy will continue to influence generations of musicians to come.

To her family, her husband Joe, and all who loved her, the jazz world extends its deepest condolences.

Rest in peace, Akiko—you did great.