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How did Dave Frishberg die? 'Schoolhouse Rock!' writer dies at 88 in Portland

Writer of iconic song 'I'm Just a Bill' mourned on social media after wife confirms passing after battling years of illness that needed public support

Iconic jazz musician Dave Frishberg has died on November 17, 20201, his wife confirmed. Frishberg, who is perhaps best known for penning 'I'm Just a Bill', died at 88 at his longtime home of Portland, Oregon. Fans have now taken to social media to mourn the loss of the musician, who has been nominated for the Grammy's four times. 

2021 has proven to be a tough year for the music industry, with several iconic names passing away. On October 23, Jay and the Americans lead singer Jay Black died at 82. Days before that, iconic drummer Ronnie Tutt who played alongside Elvis Presley died at 83. In September, another Elvis colleague, Nashville A-Team bassist Bob Moore died reportedly due to some sickness.

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With tributes pouring in, many are honoring Frishberg's contributions to jazz following his passing. He has been living in Portland since 1986, where he moved from Los Angeles following stints in the US Air Force, and New York City jazz scene. 

How did Dave Frishberg die?

An exact cause of death was not revealed, but Frishberg's wife April Magnusson hinted that the musician finally succumbed to years of health woes. Since June 2019, Frishberg has been battling a series of health conditions, forcing him into retirement. It's not clear exactly what issues he had, but Magnusson noted that they were "some minor, some not-so-minor". She started a GoFundMe page to raise funds for his long-term care, and fans flocked to help the ailing musician.

Since starting the page, Magnusson has only issued two updates, one in October 2020 to say "Dave is beginning to get some of the assistance he badly needs. We can't thank you enough for your outpouring of support, kind words, and of course your donations." Then, on November 17, 2021, she updated the page to say, "We are saddened to report that Dave passed away today, after battling illness for several years."

Magnusson also suspended the fundraiser, after making over $63,000 to help Frishberg in his final years. She asked people to consider donating MusiCares in his memory. Here's what social media had to say about Frishberg after his passing. 

'We will never know another like him'

"RIP, Dave Frishberg — a wry, witty and surprisingly poignant songwriter as well as a talented bebop pianist. Underrated," one journalist said. Singer Curtis Stigers tweeted, "The great songwriter, pianist & vocalist Dave Frishberg is gone. He was my hero & I was not only lucky to know him but had the chance to play with him & sing his songs. What a cool funny smart sad cat. We will never know another like him. Rest In Peace." Another noted, "Marooned in a blizzard of lies, indeed. Dave Frishberg R.I.P."

"#RIP Dave Frishberg, who showed jazz could be fun, yet seriously swing. He also co-wrote Schoolhouse Rock," one person tweeted. Another mourned, "Sad to hear of the loss of Dave Frishberg. He was such a great composer / lyricist & pianist - RIP Dave - we will miss your talent & wit." Actor Harry Shearer tweeted, "RIP The excellent Dave Frishberg--pianist, songwriter, singer who could be by turns wickedly ironic and heartbreakingly sincere...."

Frishberg married Magnusson in 2000 and is also survived by his two sons Harry and Max from two previous marriages to Stella Giammasi and Cynthia Wagman.