LEonard FEather, one of the world's most prominent jazz critics died of pneumonia, yesterday a...

2: LEonard FEather, one of the world's most prominent jazz critics died of pneumonia, yesterday at the age of 80. Jazz critic Francis DAvis once wrote of him, No other critic has fought the good fight longer, on as many fronts, or communicated the joys of jazz to as many generations of readers. Leonard Feather grew up in England and moved to America in 1940. Feather's LA Times column was syndicated around the world. His most important writing was his encylopedia of jazz, an essential reference work of musician bios. He had spent his final months editing a new edition, which is scheduled for publication next year. Feather also produced about 200 recording sessions, composed for many of the musicians he worked with, and even played piano on some of their sessions. Throughout his career he campaigned on behalf of women in jazz, and worked for racial equality in field.