He suffered a heart attack at his Manhattan, New York home on Tuesday (19May15), and was taken to nearby Lenox Hill Hospital. After being non-responsive for more than 24 hours, he was removed from life support and passed away on Wednesday (20May15), according to Jazz Times.

The acclaimed artist served many roles in the music industry throughout the years, including band leader, composer, arranger, producer, and saxophonist, and he played a number of other instruments.

He conducted, orchestrated and wrote arrangements for iconic jazz musicians including Herbie Hancock, Joe Henderson, and MCCoy Tyner.

Belden earned three Grammy Awards throughout his career, including for 1996's Miles Davis and Gil Evans: The Complete Columbia Studio Recordings (Best Historical Album, Best Album Notes) and 1998's Miles Davis Quintet set 1965-'68: The Complete Columbia Studio Recordings (Best Album Notes).

He received three additional nominations for his 2000 album ANIMATION/Imagination, and a world fusion record featuring Miles Davis' music called Miles from India in 2009.

Belden also served as an A&R executive for legendary jazz label Blue Note Records.

His impact in the music industry was lauded in statement from the Recording Academy, which is responsible for the Grammy Awards.

It reads: "Bob Belden was a true renaissance man - multi-instrumentalist, composer, session player, producer, educator, historian, label executive and more. An industry trailblazer, his musical talent and innovative spirit earned him three Grammy Awards and tremendous respect within the jazz community and beyond.

"We have lost a gifted and cherished musician and our sincerest condolences go out to Bob's family, friends, collaborators and all who have been impacted by his remarkable work."