Shocked and deeply saddened to learn of the passing of our brother, Joey Defrancesco, Family. Joey is a big part of who I am. He motivated me to work hard and practice, to become the best I can be. I know @questlove has similar stories of this man’s genius. In high school at CAPA in philly (creative and performing arts), I came into school one day at 8am to find Joey and @chrmcbride burning through Giant Steps at an impossibly fast tempo, rollicking and laughing the whole way. I could not believe what I was hearing. Another deep impression: Joey giving a spontaneous masterclass on the history of piano: “see Herbie would play it like this... Bill Evans would be more like... and Art Tatum would say...and Chick Corea would be like...and Bud would play it more like this...and McCoy....” Joey had so much Joy! I’m tearing up man 😢 ... I am so grateful that we got the chance to play together these past years and celebrate the special bond we share with @chrmcbride @liljohnroberts and all our Philly family. Joey and I were just texting this Monday about a trio project we were planning with Joey, myself and the great Lennie White. Guess that will have to wait. Deepest condolences to Gloria and the family, Joey was and shall ever remain truly one of the Greatest Of All Time. Godspeed my brother. Thank you 🙏🏽 ❤️