Jubilant Sykes, Acclaimed Baritone, Stabbed to Death by Son in Santa Monica

Jubilant Sykes, a renowned baritone and Grammy-nominated gospel singer, was tragically stabbed to death in his Santa Monica home. The incident occurred late Sunday night, resulting in the arrest of his son, Micah Sykes, aged 31, at the scene.

Incident Details

Authorities responded to the residence on Delaware Avenue, arriving shortly after the attack. Lt. Lewis Gilmore from the Santa Monica Police stated that Sykes, 71, was pronounced dead promptly upon their arrival. His son, Micah, was taken into custody under suspicion of homicide.

Victim’s Background

• Name: Jubilant Sykes
• Age: 71
• Career: Notable baritone, actor, and singer
• Notable Collaborations: Worked with artists like Renée Fleming and Carlos Santana
• Grammy Nomination: 2010 for Leonard Bernstein’s “Mass”
• Performances: Appeared at venues like Carnegie Hall and the Kennedy Center

Context of the Incident

Jubilant Sykes’ wife, Cecelia, reported the stabbing as an assault. Although she mentioned that their son has a history of mental illness, police have not confirmed if this factor influenced the attack. Gilmore noted that it was a tragic event that unfolded entirely within their family home.

Detectives have revealed that there were no recent domestic calls involving the family. Cecelia Sykes indicated she was not aware of any arguments leading to the stabbing and did not feel threatened during the incident. Police concluded that only the couple and their son were present when the stabbing occurred.

Jubilant Sykes’ Legacy

Born in Los Angeles in 1954, Sykes pursued music from a young age. He transitioned from soprano to baritone after his voice changed during adolescence. After studying music at California State University, Fullerton, he found success in classical singing, winning the Metropolitan Opera’s regional auditions.

His career spanned various musical genres, including gospel, spirituals, and opera. In Southern California, he performed notable events like the opening night of the Santa Monica College Performing Arts Center and collaborated with prominent musicians, including a performance with Carlos Santana.

Jubilant Sykes leaves behind not only his wife and son but two additional sons. Following the incident, police are continuing their investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death. Details regarding Micah Sykes’ bail and upcoming court appearances remain undisclosed.