NEWS RELEASE. The Recording Academy® Statement Re: David Brubeck December 5, 2012 Recording Academy Lifetime Achievement award recipient David Brubeck was an iconic jazz and classical pianist. Throughout his six decade-long career, his unique time signatures and distinct rhythms were highlights of his innovative style. As one of the prime architects of the sophisticated West Coast jazz sound, Brubeck showed that jazz could be artistically challenging yet accessible to large audiences. His recordings have received both commercial and critical success, and will be remembered and celebrated for generations to come. We have lost a great legend in our community, and our thoughts and condolences go to his family, friends and all those he inspired", wrote Neil Portnow President/CEO The Recording Academy®. News from The Recording Academy®.