Help Give Rasheed Howard a Proper Farewell

Dear reader,

On the early morning of July 7, we lost Richard Rasheed Howard at 67 years old.

Rasheed was a masterful jazz trumpeter, composer, martial artist, and mentor to countless younger musicians. He was also a loving husband, father figure, and friend to many. A kind, jovial man with an infectious laugh and an outrageous sense of humor.

After spending his youth recording and touring the world with his band, Rasheed found delight in sticking close to his home state New York, putting on a series of highly acclaimed concerts in various NYC venues but most famously outdoors in Manhattan's Washington Square Park.

Featuring all-star lineups comprised of veteran musicians and upcoming younger players under his tutelage, a sharply attired Rasheed would thrill and entertain massive audiences with his virtuosic trumpet playing, even playing two horns simultaneously to startling effect. As a result, Rasheed would often find himself the subject of videos, interviews, and photographs displayed worldwide.

Rasheed, for all his brilliant work as a musician, still died without sufficient funds to cover his funeral expenses. He leaves behind a wife, a stepson, and scores of fellow musicians whose lives he touched in lasting ways. Please help us give Rasheed a proper funeral and burial. Your donations will be utmost appreciated.

Thank you,

Rasheed's loved ones.