Preservation Hall Jazz Band Member Ronell Johnson Dies at 49

NEW ORLEANS, La. - Some sad news to report out of New Orleans as a member of the renowned Preservation Hall Jazz Band has passed away. Trombonist and tuba player Ronell Johnson died on Sunday, June 14.

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Back in April 2026, Johnson's wife Rachel shared the news that he'd had a serious heart attack but never fully recovered. Johnson was 49 years old.

Ronell Johnson's Musical Career: From Coolbone to Preservation Hall

Johnson had been a member of the Preservation Hall Jazz Band since June 2012. Before that, he was in other bands such as the Coolbone Brass Band.

Tributes Pour In for Ronell Johnson from the Music Community

The tributes have been pouring in online and on social media for Johnson. In Preservation Hall's tribute, they said Johnson's presence was "larger than life, uplifting everyone who had the honor of crossing paths with him."

Comedian and actress Amy Schumer commented on the above Instagram post: "Could not have loved this man more. We are so blessed we got to hear him play and see his smile. His presence lit up the room."

About the Preservation Hall Jazz Band

The Preservation Hall Jazz Band has been a mainstay in the Big Easy since being founded in the early 1960s. The band derives its name from Preservation Hall in the French Quarter, where you can see the band perform weekly.