Bugs Beddow & The Good Stuff Death – Detroit Music great, trombonist Bugs Beddow has tragically passed away. Bugs Beddow, a resident of Detroit, Michigan was announced dead today, Tuesday, the 12th of September 2023. He died after a long and courageous battle with cancer. Bugs (Bugs Beddow & The Good Stuff) was known and loved by all around the Detroit music scene for 40+ years. An excellent musician and a Top Entertainer, he was a great guy as well!
I’m so sad to hear of yet another great loss for our Detroit musical family. Bugs Beddow passed away after his long battle with cancer. He was a sweetheart and an amazing musical man through & through! My thoughts & prayers go out to his wife, family, and all the musicians & friends who knew him and loved him! RIP Bugs, you will be deeply missed and never forgotten!
Who was Bugs Beddow?
Bugs Beddow was a multifaceted individual, wearing various hats as a loving husband, devoted father, accomplished trombonist, skilled flutist, charismatic vocalist, charismatic bandleader, and dedicated music educator. His journey into music began in third grade when he attended a pep assembly and was captivated by the dynamic movements of the trombonist’s swiftly oscillating arm amidst a sea of stationary musicians.
In 1975, Beddow graduated from Northern Michigan University, attaining a Bachelor of Music Education. Subsequently, he pursued his passion for music education further, earning a Master of Music Education with educational credits from Madonna University and the University of California-Bakerfield. Over the years, his teaching portfolio has encompassed a wide spectrum, including band, orchestra, choir, and elementary music.
Career
Presently, he imparts his knowledge and passion as part of the West Bloomfield School District, where he instructs Middle School Band and K–5 elementary music. Outside the classroom, Beddow extends his educational impact by providing private lessons at Marshall Music. His evenings are often dedicated to live performances, and his musical journey has seen him briefly collaborate with renowned big bands such as Maynard Ferguson, Woody Herman, Don Ellis, and Stan Kenton.
Following his college days and stints with local music groups, he ventured out to create his azz ensemble, a bold move that would eventually earn him a place in the esteemed Detroit Jazz Hall of Fame in 1987. In 1992, Beddow embarked on a musical shift, transitioning into rock and soul music after his involvement in the film “Hoffa” alongside Jack Nicholson. This new direction brought him numerous accolades from the Detroit Music Awards.
In addition to his role as a principal trombonist and vice president of the Orchard Lake Philharmonic, he leads an acclaimed Detroit-based rock and soul band, known as Bugs Beddow & the Good Stuff. During his precious moments of leisure, Bugs enjoys quality time with his family, taking leisurely walks with Zeke, the family dog, and indulging in the harmonious melodies of his beloved trombone and flute.
The family will release an obituary and funeral arrangements for Bugs Beddow.
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