WWOZ mourns the passing of bassist and music entrepreneur Mitchell Player.

A native of Shreveport, Player moved to New Orleans after graduating from Grambling State University and built a career deeply rooted in the city's traditional jazz community. He became a regular presence at Preservation Hall and other New Orleans venues, learning the traditional repertoire from the musicians who welcomed him into the community and sharing the stage with generations of New Orleans jazz artists.

Player was also a dedicated advocate for the business side of music. He founded Player Productions and became the booking agent for trumpeter Leroy Jones, helping take the band on national and international tours. He continued producing music and festivals, including the 504 Festival, which supported The Jazzy Hideaway and its work providing music training to young people in rural Louisiana.

Through his work as a musician, producer, entrepreneur, and mentor, Mitchell Player contributed to both the preservation of Louisiana's musical traditions and their future.

WWOZ extends our best wishes to his family and friends at this difficult time.