James Chance, the influential saxophonist and singer known for his role in the No Wave movement in New York City, has passed away at the age of 71.

Chance's death marks the end of a career that significantly impacted the music scene of the late 1970s and early 1980s, as Variety reports.

Early Life and Musical Beginnings

James Chance, born James Siegfried, was a key figure in the No Wave music movement, contributing to its distinctive blend of punk, jazz, and funk.

He passed away on Tuesday in New York at the age of 71, as confirmed by his brother, David Siegfried, on Chance's Facebook page. While the cause of death was not specified, it was noted that his health had been declining for several years.

Born in Milwaukee, Chance initially performed under his birth name before adopting his stage name.

He began his music career in Milwaukee with a band named Death before moving to New York City in 1976. It was in New York that Chance became involved with the burgeoning No Wave scene.

Chance was known for his confrontational stage presence, often engaging in physical altercations with audience members. His aggressive style and unique sound made him a standout performer in the No Wave movement.

Formation of The Contortions

In 1977, Chance formed the Contortions, a band that would become synonymous with the No Wave genre. The Contortions' sound was a mix of influences, combining elements of James Brown, Ornette Coleman, and Iggy Pop. Their music was characterized by fiercely rhythmic tunes, marked by Chance's brash yelps and free-sax squawks.

The band contributed to the "No New York" compilation album, assembled by Brian Eno, which became a defining document of the No Wave movement. Albums by the Contortions included Buy (1979) and Off White (1980).

Chance's erratic behavior often led to unstable band lineups. For instance, the 1982 album Sax Maniac by James White and the Blacks featured a completely different lineup from previous records. Despite these changes, Chance continued to produce music that was both innovative and influential.

Unstable Lineups and Diverse Projects

He was also involved in various other bands, including the Flaming Demonics, James Chance & the Sardonic Symphonics, James Chance and Terminal City, and James Chance and Les Contortions. This diversity in his projects showcased his versatility as a musician.

Chance's influence extended beyond the No Wave movement. He contributed to Debbie Harry’s Rockbird album in 1986 and Blondie’s No Exit. In 2001, he reunited with original members of the Contortions and performed at the All Tomorrow’s Parties festival twice. His final live performance is believed to have taken place in March 2019 in Utrecht, The Netherlands.

James Chance is survived by his mother Jean Siegfried, his brother David Siegfried and his wife Donna Seaman, and his sisters Jill Siegfried and Mary (Randy) Koehler. His longtime partner, Judy Taylor, passed away in 2020.

Personal Life and Legacy

Chance's death was announced by his brother, David Siegfried, who noted that the musician’s health had been in decline for several years. “His final live performance is believed to have taken place in March 2019 in Utrecht, The Netherlands,” according to the statement.

Chance's work with the Contortions and other bands left an indelible mark on the music scene. Marc Masters, in the liner notes for a re-issue of Buy, wrote, “Led by the brash yelps and free-sax squawks of Chance, Contortions spit out fiercely rhythmic tunes charged by the wiry guitar lines of Jody Harris and the dizzying slide guitar of Pat Place… Opener ‘Designed to Kill’ shoots sparks of sound in all directions, while ‘Contort Yourself’ is a nihilistic dance number wherein Chance instructs listeners to twist into knots, physically and mentally. ‘It’s better than pleasure, it hurts more than pain,’ he snarls, later imploring, ‘You better try being stupid instead of smart.’”

James Chance's passing marks the end of an era for the No Wave movement and the music world. His unique blend of punk, jazz, and funk, combined with his confrontational stage presence, set him apart as a pioneering figure in the late 1970s and early 1980s music scene.

While his health had been declining in recent years, his legacy as an influential musician and performer will continue to inspire future generations. Chance is survived by his family, left to mourn the loss of a remarkable artist whose impact will not be forgotten