Biography
Born in Budapest, Hungary, percussionist George Jinda started piano lessons at six before shifting his attention to drums by ten. Early sparks came from Tony Williams plus African and South American rhythms, though he ultimately named Jack DeJohnette his idol. After his family relocated to New York City in 1966, Jinda encountered guitarist Chieli Minucci there in 1982. The pair launched Special EFX, soon recognized as one of smooth jazz’s most enduring ensembles. In 1992 Jinda appeared onstage with Miles Davis in Japan while beginning his World News project. Before artistic differences prompted their mid-’90s split, Special EFX issued thirteen albums. The parting remained cordial, and Minucci permitted Jinda to retain the Special EFX name for future releases. That first album without Minucci, Here to Stay, arrived in 1996, prompting Jinda to tour with the band. Long affected by asthma and diabetes, Jinda watched both conditions deteriorate in 1997, triggering a debilitating stroke. The lasting consequence was myoclonic disorder, a neurological impairment that eliminated voluntary control over his body’s movements. While bedridden, Jinda received care from his wife Nivea, and the couple consented to return the Special EFX name to Minucci. Following an extended struggle, Jinda died in early 2001.
Albums