Jubilant Sykes (September 17, 1954 – December 8, 2025) was an acclaimed American baritone opera singer known for his versatile voice that bridged classical, gospel, jazz, and folk music. Raised in Los Angeles, he began singing as a soprano child before developing a deep baritone voice that earned him international acclaim. His career spanned over five decades, during which he performed at prestigious venues including the Metropolitan Opera, Carnegie Hall, the Kennedy Center, Deutsche Oper Berlin, and London's Barbican Centre. He also appeared at major music festivals like the New Orleans Jazz Festival and iconic venues such as the Apollo Theater and Hollywood Bowl[1][2][3]. Sykes was celebrated for his compelling musical interpretation and vocal power, capable of delivering dramatic operatic moments as well as scaled-down, intimate performances. He collaborated with world-class orchestras such as the Los Angeles Philharmonic, New York Philharmonic, Boston Symphony, Chicago Symphony, and London Symphony Orchestra, working under renowned conductors including Marin Alsop, Leonard Slatkin, and John Williams[2][3][6]. Notable roles included Jake in *Porgy and Bess* at the Metropolitan Opera in 1990 and Celebrant in Leonard Bernstein’s *Mass*, for which he received a Grammy nomination for Best Classical Album in 2009. He also performed in musical theater, playing Pompey in *Bloomer Girl* and Henry Richard Lee in *1776*, and acted in film and theater projects such as *Freedom* and *Breath and Imagination*[1][2]. Sykes was known for his passion in music, often describing singing as an extension of himself. His ability to transcend musical genres made him a unique and respected figure in classical and contemporary music circles. At the time of his death, he served as an artistic advisor for Orchestra Santa Monica[1]. Jubilant Sykes was tragically found stabbed to death at his home in Santa Monica on December 8, 2025, at age 71. His son was arrested and charged in connection with the incident[1].