Jubilant Sykes’ son arrested after Grammy-nominated opera singer stabbed to death | Opera
Grammy-nominated opera and gospel singer Jubilant Sykes has died at the age of 71 after being stabbed to death in her California home.
His son, Micah Sykes, 31, was arrested on suspicion of murder, authorities said Tuesday.
According to a statement from the Santa Monica Police Department, officers responded to a 911 call Monday night reporting an assault in progress at a Santa Monica residence.
They found Sykes inside with critical stab wounds. Police said medical teams arrived at the scene and determined that the person had died.
Police said Sykes’ son, Micah, was at the home and was taken into custody without incident. It is not yet known whether he has a lawyer.
While the police seized a weapon, the investigation continues.
“The circumstances surrounding the incident continue to be investigated,” police said in a statement. “The suspect will be booked for murder and the case will be submitted to the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office for consideration.”
Jubilant Sykes was nominated for the best classical album award at the 2010 Grammy awards for her performance in Leonard Bernstein’s Mass, in which she played the role of Celebrant. Five years ago the Guardian praised Sykes’ performance as Celebrant, calling it “a superb performance of a challenging role”.
Throughout his career, he has performed in prestigious venues such as the Metropolitan Opera, Deutsche Oper Berlin, Carnegie Hall, London Barbican Centre, Kennedy Center, Apollo Theater and Hollywood Bowl.
Born in Los Angeles in 1954, Sykes began singing soprano in her childhood. He later sang as a baritone and would also sing jazz and gospel music.
“Initially, I had no dream of becoming an opera singer,” she told Fullerton, California State. CSUF News In 2019. “But that changed when I was at Cal State Fullerton. I had teachers who devoted their lives to me. I had everything I needed on campus to prepare me for my career.”
In 2002, she told NPR that she felt comfortable singing any genre of music, from pop to opera. “My singing is like breathing; it’s an extension of me. I don’t think it’s extraordinary. It’s my passion,” he said.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
